What if the most important lessons in medicine weren’t learned in a classroom, but at summer camp?
For Lauren Devine, medicine has always been about people—a truth she first discovered at Sunshine Communities. Now a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine candidate at Ohio University’s Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, her story is intertwined with Sunshine in ways she never could have imagined when she first volunteered as a high school student.
Her introduction came through the Youth Elect Service (Y.E.S.) Project at Notre Dame Academy. “I first heard about Sunshine in high school through the Y.E.S. Project. The site was Sunshine, and it left a lasting impression. Later, after my first year of college, I applied for a summer job.”
It was during that return, after freshman year, that the bond truly blossomed. When asked what keeps her coming back to camp each summer—even while balancing medical school—she explains:
“Honestly, it’s the campers and other Sunshine individuals who bring me back each summer. Witnessing their growth each year—not just physically, but in confidence, independence, and capabilities—is incredibly special. Summer Camp creates a space full of genuine engagement and joy. Whether it’s a trip to the zoo or simply playing in the yard, watching campers have fun—just being kids—never fails to bring a smile to our faces as staff. I am grateful to have found such a meaningful job—one I look forward to throughout my education.”
It was the kids—and the Sunshine individuals—who kept her returning, summer after summer.
No matter the house or program, she connected with people of all ages and abilities. The sweetest moments came when a camper recognized her from the summer before—the joy of being remembered. As she reflects, “Each role exposed me to different age groups and abilities, deepening my understanding of how to connect with each individual in meaningful ways—something I will always carry into my future healthcare career. Knowing I’ve built trust and left a lasting impact is humbling and a reminder of how enduring these relationships can be.”
As her medical training advanced, so did her role at camp. “After just one year of medical school, I’ve noticed a significant difference in how I handle situations at camp. The skills I’ve learned have helped me approach each scenario with a clearer, calmer mindset.” From minor scrapes to more serious incidents, each became an opportunity to merge clinical reasoning with compassion. “I’m especially grateful for the ongoing support from the Sunshine nurses, who have embraced and encouraged me throughout this journey.”
For Lauren, Sunshine is more than a summer job—it’s where purpose meets practice. Here, she’s preparing not just to be a physician, but one who truly understands the power of human connection.