The mission of Camp UKANDU is to bring joy and hope to children living with cancer, their siblings, and their families through “outrageously fun” camp experiences. Camp UKANDU programs are designed for cancer patients and their siblings between the ages of 8 and 18. We serve patients on and off treatment, and siblings of patients, including those who have passed away. Camp UKANDU is a place with every kid can just be a kid. One of our primary goals is to provide our programs at no cost to the families we serve. Camp has only one employee. The depth and breadth of our volunteers are the secret to our success. Every June more than 80 adults travel from near and far to volunteer their time to create the camp magic. Counselors, program staff, and medical staff – many of these volunteers use a week of their vacation time to be at camp. Their efforts continue year round – putting on events, planning activities, serving on committees, stuffing and stamping envelopes and more.

Our volunteer medical team is comprised of doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners and social workers from Randall Children’s Hospital at Legacy Emanuel and Doernbecher Children’s Hospital at OHSU. This team is vital and makes it possible for children currently on treatment to attend Camp UKANDU.

Since 1926 YMCA Camp Collins has provided positive life changing experiences for children ages 7-18. Located just east of Portland, Oregon along the Sandy River, Camp Collins help boys and girls discover and develope their skills and abilities to their fullest potential. Living in age based villages in groups of 10 campers and 2 staff, campers are able to develop important skills of communication, problem solving and shared group responsibilities. Activities such as the Challenge Course, climbing tower, archery, horsemanship, swimming and others allow campers to try new activities, enhance existing skills and challenge themselves to grow each day at camp.

YMCA Camp Collins also offers Conference and Retreat opportunities for groups throughout the non-summer season and Family Camp programs Memorial and Labor Day weekends.