About Us

Our team is comprised of seasoned camp professionals with over 30 years of experience and specialists in ADHD learning differences and social anxiety, we have expertly crafted enriching experiences for children and families.

Co-Founder

Samantha Gunther

As a dedicated mom to an amazing son with ADHD, Samantha's personal journey has fueled her passion to empower and support children facing similar challenges. With over 30 years of experience in marketing and events, she's honed her skills in creating meaningful and impactful experiences for both children and adults. Samantha's years spent as a camp counselor and extensive career have given her the tools to develop engaging, supportive programs that truly make a difference. Camp Willow was born from this deep commitment to helping children with ADHD thrive by providing them with the guidance, tools, and nature-based experiences they need to succeed. Through mindfulness, evidence-based programs, and the beauty of nature, it is her goal to help these incredible kids thrive, grow in confidence, and live happier, more fulfilling lives and most importantly, provide the support and tools to parents she wishes she had.

Specialty Program Director

Bryan Thornton, Ph.D

Bryan Thornton, Ph.D., brings a wealth of experience in special education to Camp Willow. Currently an Assistant Professor of Special Education at California State University, Los Angeles, Bryan completed his doctorate in Special Education through UCLA and Cal State LA prior to that he spent over 12 years as a K-12 special education teacher.

Bryan’s passion for camp began in 1997 when he volunteered as a counselor a The Laurel Foundation. Since then, he’s dedicated more than 27 years to volunteering with the organization, serving in multiple roles, the most recent being Director of the Mental Health Team. With his own experience as someone with ADHD, Bryan’s commitment to Camp Willow combines his love for camp with his passion for supporting neurodiverse youth, especially kids with ADHD. He is driven by the transformative impact that camp programs can have on young lives.

Co-Founder

Margot Anderson

Margot Anderson brings over 32 years of transformative experience in developing and directing life-changing camp programs for youth to Camp Willow. As a certified Camp Director with the American Camp Association, Margot ensures that every program adheres to the highest standards physical and emotional safety and care. Her impressive background includes founding camps for at-risk youth, driven by her passion for creating nurturing environments where children can truly thrive. Margot is honored to be part of this groundbreaking camp, the first of its kind on the West Coast.