Descriptions like “tireless” and “dedicated” are often applied to volunteer efforts, but Walter Camp’s commitment to service gives these expressions a new level of meaning. Those who work alongside Walter know that when he serves a cause, he doesn’t just talk about it. He is known for putting in the hard work to make things happen no matter the task at hand. As Secretary of the Virginia Beach Clean Community Commission, he went above and beyond his normal role to join other volunteers in the 2021 Great American Cleanup, helping scoop debris from the Virginia Beach shorelines in his kayak to collect over 6,000 pounds of litter in three hours! It wasn’t required, but it speaks volumes about his commitment. Walter leads a busy professional life as an attorney but finds time to devote to improving the quality of life in Virginia Beach, providing more than 1,000 hours of volunteer service in 2021-22, with various boards, commissions, and initiatives.

Walter has been dedicated to community service all his life. His vast legacy in Virginia Beach illustrates this commitment, including hours spent on the ground, stepping up to lead new efforts, and often chipping away at the less visible parts of the work to give others the opportunity to shine. In describing his service, his colleagues say: “He educates and connects people with influence with what needs to happen, and generates results that may never be attributed to him. He uses his intellect to find creative solutions and works persistently through any and all challenges that get in the way.” His contributions through hours of volunteerism are only part of the legacy; Walter is also known for being extremely generous with his appreciation for others, making folks feel as though their contributions helped him personally, when, in fact, it was for the good of the community. His nominator warns, “Though Walter is overwhelmingly deserving of this recognition, he will be humbled should he receive it and will likely try to share the credit.”

Walter Camp’s service to the community knows no bounds. From earning his Eagle Scout award as a young adult to completing a volunteer training with the FBI, he never ceases to find ways to nurture the good and bring new life. Walter is a result and people-oriented leader with a passion for historic preservation, environmental conservation, transportation alternatives for bicyclists and pedestrians, and community engagement. His volunteer contributions go back decades and have a lasting impact on the people they have touched. His contributions further efforts that continue to pay dividends for years to come in creating successful partnerships among the community.