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Oncology and Kids (OAK) is dedicated to nurturing the emotional well-being of children and families navigating the challenges of cancer or chronic blood disorders. These conditions can create profound isolation, impacting not only the young patients but also their loved ones. OAK's initiatives extend beyond hospital walls, offering a sanctuary where families can bond, create cherished memories, and find the strength to persevere.
Established in 2020 by three passionate volunteers, including a childhood cancer survivor, OAK continues the legacy of Camp Reach for the Sky (CR4TS), a beacon of hope since 1983. Guided by the American Cancer Society, The Seany Foundation, and now OAK, CR4TS has touched the lives of over 22,000 children and their families. (See www.Oncologyandkids.org.)
While it offers yearlong connection and support, OAK's flagship program is Camp Reach for the Sky. This is a free peer support and quality of life camp program for kids ages 4-17 and their families. Through a blend of talk therapy, play, and art, OAK's dedicated volunteers equip children with coping mechanisms to navigate the emotional toll of cancer diagnosis and treatment.
The program consists of the following six sessions, tailored to different age groups and circumstances. Annually, over 500 children attend at least one of the six sessions and over 200 volunteers sacrifice their time and talent.
1. Resident Oncology Camp: A week-long retreat for patients aged 8-17, including comprehensive medical support on-site.
2. Sibling Camp: A dedicated space for siblings, providing emotional guidance and understanding for those affected by their loved one's illness.
3. Day Camp: A nurturing environment for children aged 4-10, including those in treatment, remission, or coping with loss, with medical support available.
4. Teen Weekend: Empowering adolescents aged 13-17 with discussions on leadership and life amidst and beyond cancer.
5. Family Camp: Offering solace and connection for families facing a parent's active cancer treatment.
6. RyanStrong Bereavement Camp: Extending support to families grieving the loss of a child or parent to cancer.
A District Grant of $6,000 to OAK would provide funding for arts and crafts supplies for three vital camps: the Resident Oncology Camp, Day Camp and Sibling Camp. With minimal administrative expenses, OAK relies on donations to provide essential supplies for therapeutic activities, games, and crafts. Additionally, donations will provide supplies for "Camp in a Box" for children who are unable to attend camp in person. This Virtual Camp provides activities and support for children in treatment or remission.
Below is a short list of some of the items needed based on our current volunteer leadership program lists for ROC, SIBS and DAY Camps.
Talk Time:
Butcher paper for reflection activities
Journals
Wish sticks
Bracelet string and beads
Mini canvases and paint supplies
Arts & Crafts:
Embroidery thread
Marshmallows for marshmallow fight; shield making activity supplies
Water balloons
Golden cape supplies
Lanyard string and heat press supplies
Camp In A Box:
Camp t-shirt
Water bottle
Iron on patches
Stickers
Mental health toolkit booklet
Glow sticks
The timeline for this project is the one year from funding. RSF Rotarians will be encouraged to volunteer their time at one of the camps or help organize the supplies. Additionally, RSF Rotary will invite someone from the organization to speak at our club meeting.
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