
Highlighting Our Members
WCC is fortunate to have so many inspiring, hard-working member organizations. In this monthly series, we are proud to shine a spotlight on the important work folks are doing in cancer control and prevention across the state.
If you're interested in being featured, reach out to info@wicancer.org!
This Month's Member Spotlight
Kesem at UW-Madison
Kesem is the leading national nonprofit supporting children facing a parent’s cancer. Founded in 2000, the Kesem community consists of more than 4,700 volunteer college student leaders at more than 115 college chapters across the country, including one at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Kesem at UW-Madison was founded in 2010 and serves children aged 6-18 throughout Wisconsin and northern Illinois. Most of the children they serve are in the Madison and Milwaukee areas, but they are hoping to serve a larger population from northern Wisconsin. They provide free summer camps, day programs, and virtual meetups for youth and adolescents facing a parent’s cancer to connect with peers, process their experiences, and have fun.
The Wisconsin group is run by passionate college students hoping to make a difference for children affected by a parent’s cancer. They create experiences and connections for children to process, connect, heal, and thrive. They believe all children facing a parent’s cancer deserve the chance to fully experience the joys of childhood and be their best selves.
Their flagship project is a free summer camp, with three sessions offered each summer. For many children and volunteers, Kesem is a life-changing experience that spans far beyond a week at summer camp. It fosters bonds and understanding that builds resilience, confidence, and lasting feelings of hope and joy.
This year’s camp dates are June 22-27, July 20-25, and August 10-15. Kesem also offers kids events throughout the year, such as Virtual Cabin Chats, and a Friends and Family Day in the Spring and Fall.
Kesem and its services are available for children at any point in their caregivers' cancer journey. All their services are provided at no cost to families. Additionally, they provide extra support including assisting with transportation to and from camp, providing supplies and clothing, or any other accommodations that families need to reduce barriers to attending camp. Campers are also able to receive Kesem year-round support services without attending a week of camp in the summer.
