The history: I have been a part of Camp Casco since 2018, when I volunteered for the first time at their overnight camp - a summer camp for cancer patients and survivors. In 2019, I helped with busing (Camp Casco provides transportation to Western MA for the camps because most families are located east, to make camp more financially & logistically accessible). In 2020, I participated in virtual camp, Camp @ Heart. After a few summers off between teacher training & surgeries, I finally returned to volunteering as a counselor in 2024, at overnight sibling camp - a summer camp for the siblings of pediatric cancer patients. In 2025, in addition to being a camp counselor, I wanted spread awareness of and raise funds for Camp Casco via Hikes for Hope. This year, I'm a "Trail Blazer". I'm completing a hike on May 4th (which helps me stay motivated to do my PT exercises & build strength), and raising funds ahead of National Cancer Survivor Day on June 1st.
The organization: Some of the reasons I love Camp Casco:
- It is incredibly inclusive. Mobility challenges are not only accommodated for but expected and normalized. Everyone operates from a trauma-informed lens so those who need extra support aren't singled out.
- All camps & activities are completely free for pediatric cancer families! Cancer is expensive, and Camp Casco wanted to provide a safe space that was financially accessible to the people who need it most.
- The kids are amazing. The maturity and grace these campers demonstrate is unmatched. They are kind, respectful, and fun. They have been through so much and at camp they have an opportunity to be themselves with peers who understand and accept them.
- The siblings get the same high quality care and attention. When one child in a family has cancer, the siblings suffer as well, and often get left behind. Camp Casco is unique in their ability to support the whole family.
- There is 24/7 medical support! This ensures medically complex campers can attend safely, with the added benefit that camp is very healthy and protected! Nurses and medical professionals take vacation time to volunteer with camp.
The Ask:
- Donate if you can! In order for camp to be free and accessible, fundraising is crucial. Times are hard for many, so know that small amounts are still very appreciated and go a long way!
- If you're not able to donate at this time, spread the word! All the counselors at Camp Casco are VOLUNTEERS! There's a 1:2 counselor to camper ratio, which allows for great support but requires many people.
- If you know any pediatric cancer families, invite them to apply to Camp Casco! Space is limited, so the sooner they apply, the better! There are many testimonials and stories on the Camp Casco website if you want to hear how other families have benefitted.
If you have any questions or just want to learn more about Camp Casco, please get in touch!
You can learn more about Hikes for Hope below.
Hike Anywhere. Change Lives.
Trail Blazers is more than just a hike—it’s a movement of adventure, perseverance, and purpose. Between May 1 and June 1, 2025, hikers across the country will lace up their boots and take on their own unique challenges to support kids impacted by cancer. Whether you conquer a local trail, summit a bucket-list peak, or explore new terrain, every step brings us closer to providing life-changing summer camp experiences for these incredible kids.
By joining as an individual or a team, you’ll set
your own goal, challenge yourself, and make a difference—all while
hiking wherever and whenever works for you.
Every Step Matters
At Camp Casco, kids who have faced unimaginable challenges get the chance to just be kids—laughing, exploring, and building lifelong friendships in a safe and supportive environment. Our free summer camps are designed to provide joy, healing, and adventure to kids affected by cancer, giving them a break from hospitals and treatments and surrounding them with a community that understands.
Your participation as a Trail Blazer helps fund:
✔️ Lodging, meals, and
medical care so every camper stays safe and
comfortable.
✔️
A dedicated 1:2 counselor-to-camper ratio
to provide meaningful support.
✔️
Adaptive activities and inclusive
programming, ensuring every child can fully
participate.
✔️
Unforgettable experiences that foster
resilience, confidence, and lifelong friendships.
✔️
Peace of mind and a week
of respite for parents, knowing their child is
in the best hands.
Camp Casco is always 100% free for families—thanks to the generosity of supporters like you.
So Much More Than A Hike
The trails you choose may challenge you physically, but the impact you make will last a lifetime. Just as kids affected by cancer lean on their support systems, this hike represents the strength of community in overcoming obstacles.
With every mile you hike and every dollar you raise, you’re giving kids the chance to experience adventure, belonging, and joy at Camp Casco. Whether you take on a solo trek or rally a team of fellow Trail Blazers, your journey creates hope, inspires resilience, and transforms lives.
Sign up today, choose your own adventure, and turn your miles into magic for kids who need it most! Learn more about Camp Casco’s mission at www.campcasco.org.
Follow The Fun
Find @HikesForHope on Instagram to join us on our journey!
