CAMP COURAGEOUS is a week-long residential summer camp restricted to children with cancer. The camp provides normal camping experience shared with children the same age who are experiencing the same dilemma. It allows children a chance to bond. These bonds turn into friendships that help carry them through the depression of long hospital stays, painful surgeries and treatments, the feeling of isolation and inadequacy, the embarrassment of disfigurement, and having no hair. Camp gives them the opportunity for some of their own basic care that has been taking away during their illness by over concerned and frightened parents. This small amount of independence can be very empowering.
CAMP BRAVO is a week-long summer camp program restricted to children who are siblings of a child with cancer. This camp provides much of the same curriculum as Camp Courageous, however, the primary target is to focus on the needs of these often times, forgotten children. With the help of social workers and staff, siblings can get to the root of their anger and fear. Friendships and bonds are created that help carry them during their time of feeling isolated and cut off from their parents.
CAMP LITTLE ONE is a one-day mini camp for children who do not meet the minimum age requirements of six for either Camp Courageous or Camp Bravo. This fun day of camp is combined of both children with cancer and their siblings. Our goal is to provide a special day that makes them feel they have the same privileges as the older children.
TEEN SKI RETREAT is week-end program that allows teens with cancer the opportunity to challenge themselves physically and at the same time deal with the emotional challenges by sharing their fears and concerns with other teens and counselors.
FAMILY NIGHTS is an interactive program for the entire family. Guest speakers are invited to address the parents/caregivers on current issues, treatments, developments, and advances in childhood cancer. Children are separated from the parents and spend the time performing arts and crafts, playing games, and socializing with other children. Dinner is provided at no cost for the entire group. Family members receive valuable information and have an opportunity to ask questions and visit with other parents.
PARENT RETREAT/CAMP UNITED is a local weekend getaway for parents. Through this mini retreat, we offer structured programming throughout the day. We have guest speakers who provide sessions on communication skills, anger management, coping, stress relief and relaxation techniques. We close the retreat with a session on maintaining relations. We encourage our parents to reestablish their commitment to each other and fight the battle of childhood cancer together and not against one another. Childcare is provided so parents can have a worry free weekend