why we camp

Building relationships with peers who have been through similar experiences can reduce the negative emotional effects of cancer, and help children heal. Our camps are designed to create and nurture those critical connections.

Here’s how:

HAVing FUN

Our programs are filled with fun and laughter, helping each child relax and feel comfortable. Days filled with activities like water balloon fights and obstacle courses reduce stress and anxiety, and help campers come out of their shell.

ENCOURAGing INDEPENDENCE

Camp Casco teaches kids responsibility by doing things like getting dressed, brushing their teeth, and cleaning up after themselves, as they are able. Seeing peers model responsibility helps campers learn to become more independent, too.

BUILDing CAMARADERIE

Camp Casco brings people together by sharing living spaces, doing activities together, and eating meals as a group. This helps create a strong feeling of community and connection, which makes friendships form more quickly.

RAISing SELF-ESTEEM

Children feel better about themselves when they are in an encouraging and inclusive environment. They are more motivated to explore and try new things, which in turn, helps kids feel empowered and capable.

teaching RESILIENCE

At camp, children may face familiar challenges, like disagreements with other campers or feeling sad about being away from home. Camp Casco is a good place to help kids learn to handle these difficulties. We teach campers to work through conflicts peacefully, navigate homesickness, and overcome obstacles with empathy and kindness. These experiences help our campers gain important skills to deal with future challenges successfully.