At this year’s Kids Kamp, held at Eden Wood in Eden Prairie from August 7-9, campers ages 5-18 participated in many different activities over the three days including a ropes course for the teens, art activities, Olympic themed games, pie eating contest, and karaoke. Through the camp, kids learn that they are not the only ones living with a parent with cancer and that they can still have fun and be a kid.
This year’s theme, “iINSPIRE”, was omnipresent among the campers. The kids took time to reflect upon what inspired them and how they can channel that inspiration to help them through the more difficult days. They also learned how they can inspire others. One of the projects built around this theme was the creation of “inspiration boxes” filled with words of inspiration that can be shared with others or simply kept with the kids themselves to read when they need hope.
Truly inspirational at Kids Kamp is the bond that is created among the campers. Many kids arrive to camp on the first day initially hesitant, but by the end, make several new friends that understand what they are going through. The campers were naturals at helping each other and quickly came to comfort those who were struggling. These kids left Kids Kamp, instilled with a sense of strength, courage, and hope that they can share with their loved ones.
Every year the campers create a music video to help capture their camp experience. This year's music video featured the song "All Star" by Smash Mouth. You can watch their video below.