BILLINGS, Mont. – Care Camps Foundation, a national non-profit dedicated to bringing the healing power of the outdoors to children living with cancer, is thrilled to announce a landmark achievement in partnership with Kampgrounds of America (KOA). Since its inception, KOA and campgrounds have raised over $20 million to support the mission of Care Camps Foundation, according to a release.
This contribution marks a significant milestone in the long-standing partnership between Care Camps Foundation and KOA, highlighting the enduring commitment of both organizations to making a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families affected by cancer.
Care Camps Foundation was started by a caring group of KOA campground owners who began fundraising for pediatric oncology camps in 1984. Over the past four decades, this grassroot effort has grown into a substantial foundation funding over 120 camps across the United States and Canada.
In 2023, the KOA umbrella raised over $1.6 million for Care Camps Foundation, impacting the lives of over 41,000 children and families navigating a cancer journey.
“Care Camps Foundation is immensely grateful to everyone associated with KOA,” said Gwynn Sullivan, Care Camps Foundation executive director. “Their unwavering dedication allows us to fulfill our mission of providing transformative camp experiences for these special children. As our legacy partner, KOA is the cornerstone of our organization, and their generosity has made an indelible impact on the camps we fund.”
Annually, KOA Inc., and KOA campgrounds across North America host fundraising events and support Care Camps Foundation’s year-round initiatives. KOA Big Weekend (May 10 and 11, 2024) is just one of the many ways participating campgrounds are poised to give back to Care Camps Foundation with a portion of site reservations being donated.
“KOA is proud to stand alongside Care Camps Foundation,” said Toby O’Rourke, KOA Inc. President and CEO. “KOA’s mission to connect people to the outdoors and each other seamlessly aligns with Care Camps Foundation. Our partnership underscores the deep-rooted values of compassion and community that define both organizations. Together, we will continue to make a positive difference in the lives of children living with cancer and their families.”
About Care Camps
Care Camps Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit dedicated to funding medically supervised pediatric oncology camps across the United States and Canada. They aspire to bring the healing power of community and the outdoors to children living with cancer and their families by partnering with the outdoor industry, other businesses, foundations, and individuals to fund the camps. Care Camps Foundation supports camps who are members of the Children’s Oncology Camping Association (COCA) which oversees their quality assurance and professional development. For more information, visit www.carecamps.org.
About Kampgrounds of America (KOA)
Kampgrounds of America (KOA) is the world’s largest system of privately held campgrounds with over 500 locations across North America. Founded in 1962, KOA is committed to providing exceptional outdoor experiences and promoting a sense of community among campers. KOA has been a proud supporter of Care Camps Foundation for over 30 years, raising funds and awareness to help children with cancer experience the healing power of camp. For more information, visit www.koa.com.
