Arizona Camp Sunrise & Sidekicks Programs
Whispering Hope Ranch, 20235 N Cave Creek Rd, Ste 104 #452, Phoenix, AZ 85024
About
Arizona Camp Sunrise & Sidekicks Programs offers year-round programs and summer camps for pediatric cancer patients, survivors, and their siblings. The programs include retreats, teen-specific programs, family overnight events, and a day camp for survivors and siblings ages 3–7. Arizona Camp Sunrise is one of the oldest pediatric oncology summer camps in the United States, and Arizona Camp Sidekicks is one of the only camps tailored to the needs of siblings impacted by pediatric cancer.
• Price: Programs and summer camps are provided at no cost.
Arizona Camp Sunrise began in 1983, when 23 children with cancer attended the first camp. In 1988, a program for siblings of children with cancer was created, along with a day camp for survivors and siblings ages 3–7. From 1989 to 2011, the programs expanded to include a wide variety of retreats, teen-specific programs, and family overnight events. In 2012, the American Cancer Society announced changes to its programs, and in 2013 a group of camp volunteers formed the Southwest Kids Cancer Foundation, Inc. to further the mission of Arizona Camp Sunrise. The Southwest Kids Cancer Foundation, Inc. is a not-for-profit organization that oversees the programs of Arizona Camp Sunrise and Sidekicks and supports families in the Southwest affected by pediatric cancer. Staff, volunteers, and the Board of Directors oversee day-to-day operations and help fundraise for all programs. Ann Wheat served as the founding camp director in partnership with the American Cancer Society. Arizona Camp Sunrise & Sidekicks is accredited, and supporters mentioned include Dr. Bettina C. Hilman-Mattson, the Jack Ingebritson Foundation, and the William H Moffat Jr. Foundation.
Last updated January 16, 2026.
• Price: Programs and summer camps are provided at no cost.
Arizona Camp Sunrise began in 1983, when 23 children with cancer attended the first camp. In 1988, a program for siblings of children with cancer was created, along with a day camp for survivors and siblings ages 3–7. From 1989 to 2011, the programs expanded to include a wide variety of retreats, teen-specific programs, and family overnight events. In 2012, the American Cancer Society announced changes to its programs, and in 2013 a group of camp volunteers formed the Southwest Kids Cancer Foundation, Inc. to further the mission of Arizona Camp Sunrise. The Southwest Kids Cancer Foundation, Inc. is a not-for-profit organization that oversees the programs of Arizona Camp Sunrise and Sidekicks and supports families in the Southwest affected by pediatric cancer. Staff, volunteers, and the Board of Directors oversee day-to-day operations and help fundraise for all programs. Ann Wheat served as the founding camp director in partnership with the American Cancer Society. Arizona Camp Sunrise & Sidekicks is accredited, and supporters mentioned include Dr. Bettina C. Hilman-Mattson, the Jack Ingebritson Foundation, and the William H Moffat Jr. Foundation.
Last updated January 16, 2026.
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