The first Camp Kesem started at Stanford University in 2000. The project was started by a group of students who wanted to create a magical summer camp experience for children with parents who have cancer. It is now a national organization that serves hundreds of children in need all over the country.

Each year since its founding, Camp Kesem has improved upon its model, finding new tools for inspiring and empowering students so they can become better leaders who run even richer and more fruitful Camp Kesem programs. Between 2001 and 2010, Camp Kesem grew from a single campus hosting 37 campers to a national movement serving over 1000 campers at 23 camps.

About our Camp

Camp Kesem UCSD was founded in 2004. It is a week-long summer camp open to all children ages 6-13 and teens ages 14-16 who have a parent in treatment for cancer, in remission for cancer, or has passed away from cancer, regardless of financial status, race, religion, or nationality. The camp currently has 80 open camper spots, with a 2:1 camper to counselor ratio. Our goal is to provide these 80 campers with a magical week of fun in a comfortable and supportive environment where they can build a strong network of friendships with peers undergoing a similar challenge.

Camp Kesem UCSD is completely developed, organized, and run by students of the University of California, San Diego, but is not affiliated with The University of California, San Diego in any way.