Thomas Weber, owner of Chicago Northwest KOA, helps a young baker prepare a dessert during a learning session at the recent One Step Winter Camp sponsored by Children’s Oncology Services, Inc., of Chicago.
Connect-A-Camp, an initiative started in 2014 to link more KOA owners and managers with a KOA Care Camp in their area, now has 50 partnerships as 2015 gets underway.
The relationships allow officials at these special oncology camps for kids make a local connection with KOA supporters, one that goes beyond accepting delivery of a donation.
KOA representatives gain a better understanding of the special programs that go on at nearby Care Camps. They have taken the opportunity to visit their partner camps, meet camp volunteers and interact with kids.
Thomas and Sylvia Weber, owners of Chicago Northwest KOA, recently made a connection by visiting with children, staff and volunteers at the 2014 One Step Winter Camp sponsored by Children’s Oncology Services, Inc. of Chicago. The program for teens ages 13-19 is held at the Conference Point Center, Williams Bay, Wis., the week between Christmas and New Year’s Eve.
The campers reconnect with friends and enjoy snowboarding, tubing, skiing and other winter activities. Inside, there is swimming, arts and crafts, and plenty of games. There are also learning exercises, including a session on baking in which teens break into groups to prepare three different desserts. The Webers joined in the baking adventure.
“KOA is a wonderful partner,” says Katie Weil, development officer for Children’s Oncology Services, Inc. “It has been great to get to know Tom and Sylvia. We’re very grateful for their support.”