Care Camps, a non-profit organization supporting pediatric oncology camps across North America, marks its 40th anniversary with a significant rebranding, now known as Care Camps Foundation.
Established in 1984 by a group of Kampgrounds of America, Inc. (KOA) owners, the organization has played a pivotal role in offering outdoor experiences to children battling cancer.
Over the years, Care Camps Foundation has evolved from supporting a handful of camps to funding over 120 pediatric oncology camps. This expansion demonstrates the organization’s commitment to harnessing the therapeutic benefits of the outdoors for children and their families affected by cancer.
Gwynn Sullivan, the executive director of Care Camps Foundation, highlights the name change as a reflection of the organization’s growth and broader mission.
“Care Camps has essentially functioned as a foundation, and we are pleased to announce our official name change as it reflects our evolution and growth. We remain strongly committed to funding these special camps and believe that Care Camps Foundation more accurately encapsulates the scope and impact of our mission,” Sullivan stated.
The organization’s efforts have led to the raising of more than $26 million to support these specialized camps. In the past year alone, $2 million was allocated to 122 camps, impacting over 26,000 children and their families.
Mark Lemoine, board chair of Care Camps Foundation, expressed gratitude for the decades of support from various stakeholders.
“Our 40th anniversary is a testament to the dedication and generosity of our donors, volunteers, staff, and other partners. Together, we have accomplished so much, and we look forward to continuing our mission under the banner of Care Camps Foundation,” Lemoine said.
Care Camps Foundation has planned a series of events, fundraising initiatives, and a special anniversary publication to commemorate the milestone and bolster their mission.
For campground and outdoor hospitality operators, the story of Care Camps Foundation offers inspiration and a model for community engagement. The foundation’s partnership with KOA and other outdoor industry players has been instrumental in its success, showing the potential for collaborative efforts to make a significant social impact.
Operators can leverage their resources to support Care Camps Foundation, integrating social responsibility into their business model. Such partnerships not only aid the foundation’s cause but also enrich the camping experience, offering guests the opportunity to participate in philanthropy.
The legacy of Care Camps Foundation in providing cancer-stricken children with a healing outdoor environment underlines the vital role of the campground and outdoor hospitality industry in societal well-being. This synergy between business and charity enhances the industry’s image and fosters a community of care.
For more information about Care Camps Foundation and its initiatives, or to get involved, visit www.carecamps.org.
Isn’t it surprising that the Care Camps Foundation not only backs pediatric oncology camps but also equips camp staff with tools to support kids with cancer better? 🌟 They’re set on broadening their impact to more camps, spreading the healing magic of the outdoors to more families. 🌿 How awesome is that?
Did you catch the news about Care Camps Foundation’s rebranding and their plans for new fundraising initiatives and partnerships? Exciting stuff ahead to help kids battling cancer!