Our History
Since our inception in 1984, Care Camps Foundation has raised over $26 million dollars to fund medically supervised pediatric oncology camps across the U.S. and Canada.
Here’s a snapshot of our evolution:
1984
A group of Kampgrounds of America (KOA) campground owners began fundraising for kids with cancer to attend specialized pediatric oncology camps.
1989
Originally named, “Happiness is Camping,” the name was changed to KOA Care Camps. “Happiness for Kids with Cancer” became the slogan.
1992
Operating as part of the KOA Owners Association, Care Camps applies for 501c3 status.
2014
Care Camps raises over 1 million dollars funding 94 pediatric oncology camps across the U.S. and Canada.
2015
Care Camps begins its partnership with the Children’s Oncology Camping Association (COCA) instilling quality assurance systems for pediatric oncology camps funded.
Care Camps is re-incorporated and separated from the KOA Owners Association to be its own 501c3 entity.
2020
Pediatric oncology camps across the U.S. and Canada are unable to offer in-person camp opportunities and in-hospital services due to COVID-19. Camps creatively double their efforts to deliver virtual camps, in-hospital, and at home camp experiences. These programs continue to grow today and receive funding from Care Camps.
2022
Care Camps raises over 3.5 million dollars, funding over 132 specialized pediatric oncology camps across the U.S. and Canada.
2024
Care Camps celebrates its 40th anniversary and officially changes their name to Care Camps Foundation.