Camp Kesem is more than just a camp, it is a chance for our campers to be kids again. We are a nationwide, nonprofit organization for kids whose parents either had or have cancer. Our goal as an organization is to be there, in support for the campers throughout and beyond their parents’ diagnosis.
We are the only chapter in Kansas here at KU, run by our very own students along with students from surrounding schools. This chapter started in 2015 and has been growing every year since. Along with our year-long support, we host a week long, fully funded summer camp for these children towards the end of May.
We have many year-round events that include Giving Tuesday, FFD (Family and Friends Day), Make the Magic, our annual fundraising gala, as well as others. FFD is a chance for our counselors to meet up with campers and their families to build stronger connections that are cherished at camp. Two of the biggest fundraisers we have are Giving Tuesday where we raise awareness across campus to raise as much money as possible to send these kiddos to camp. The other is Make the Magic, our gala, where we have guest speakers and a live auction paired with a dinner to spread the Kesem Magic! These year-long programs allow the campers and counselors to never feel out of touch with our Kesem family.
Email: kansas@kesem.org
Instagram: @kesem.ku
Facebook: @Kesem at the University of Kansas