Going back to when she was a young child growing up in Sparta, Angela LoSapio was known as a sympathetic person who wanted to help people. “Although I didn’t know exactly what I wanted to do when I grew up, I always knew I wanted to be helpful.”

After graduating from Farleigh Dickinson University with a psychology degree, Angela got her first job as a group home manager for SCARC in Sussex County. She moved to Day Programs and about a year and a half later was promoted to Director of Community Services. In that role, she oversaw Day Programs and Supported Employment and maintained a small residential caseload. “It was a little bit of everything,” she said.

After 10 years at SCARC, Angela made the move to The Arc of Essex County, where she was hired as Director of Day Services in 2018. Two years later, as the pandemic shifted or shuttered all kinds of programs throughout the industry, The Arc of Essex County was determined to open Camp Hope, and Angela was called upon to help figure out how to safely open camp and manage the season alongside Senior Director of Children and Day Services Laurie Best. “It was my first time working with kids, and I absolutely loved it,” Angela says. Camp has been under her purview ever since.

In recent years, Angela has taken on projects such as the vending machine management program and the job club and was instrumental in the opening and oversight of Studio Arc, a creative arts space for all ages. As her role evolved, so did her title: in 2023, her department was restructured and her position was renamed Director of Creative Services.

“I love the diversity of opportunities here, and being able to provide programs that wouldn’t otherwise be offered,” she says. “I enjoy problem solving and the opportunity to provide resources to families who need it.”

When Angela first made the move to The Arc of Essex County, she was looking forward to evolving and growing with an organization she knew was at the forefront of the industry when it comes to innovative programs for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. That expectation has played out, as she is constantly tackling new challenges and trying new things.

As she looks forward to another Camp Hope season, Angela is excited that her son, Ben, will be volunteering as a CIT this year. And although it’s a busy and hectic time, she cherishes the seven-week Camp Hope season. “I love watching the returning campers come back year after year, and seeing them grow and make friends,” Angela says. “It’s such a happy place, and I love being the person who helps make happy things happen.”

The Camp Hope season began on July 1, 2024. Learn more at ArcCampHope.com!