Camp Kesem - a free, weeklong experience - is our flagship offering, and it is a highlight of the year for so many in the Kesem at Yale community! Kids aged 6-18 affected by a parent or caregiver's cancer make unforgettable memories and build lifelong friendships. Read below to learn more about what we do at camp!
Each day, campers attend several activities with their units, groups composed of campers around the same age. We split campers into age brackets so that programming can be best tailored for them. Rotations in the past have included Sports, Soccer & Dance, Arts & Crafts, Gaga Ball & Games, Drama, and Swim/Water. At Kesem, we practice challenge by choice, where we encourage campers to branch out but meet them where they are at. There are always alternatives to the main activity for those who want them.
After each day, campers and counselors in each cabin spend quality time together. They can talk about their favorite parts of the day, debate the best pizza toppings or which items you should bring to a desert island, share how cancer and Kesem have shaped their lives, or whatever else is on their mind.
One night during our camp session, the entire camp gathers to watch a movie together, often related to the day's theme.
Campers are put into groups in an all-camp competition that involves everything from leading a camp song to playing telephone. Who will win this year?
Empowerment is the night we all come together to discuss why we are here at Kesem. Camp is split into smaller groups to facilitate the experience. Campers and counselors can choose to share how cancer has affected their lives, or they can listen to others' stories. Afterward, we remind ourselves that we have this wonderful community to support us through all of our challenges. The night culminates in a lighthearted activity, such as cookie decorating.
Camp wouldn't be complete without Messy Games! The entire camp goes through several stations with shaving cream, washable paint, silly string, and water, and everyone's playful spirit comes out.
Our oldest campers run the show, making it fun for our individual, group, or all-unit performances! You can expect singing, dancing, animal impressions, magic tricks, stand-up comedy, and much more.