About
Kesem offers Camp Kesem, Club Kesem, and Kesem Together. Camp Kesem is a free, overnight summer camp for children ages 6 to 18. Club Kesem offers virtual gatherings with a variety of themes and age groups, and Kesem Together offers free, in-person day programs held throughout the year.
Programs
- Camp Kesem — Children ages 6 to 18 · Overnight summer camp
- Club Kesem — Children and teens ages 6-18 · Virtual gatherings; typically late afternoon/evening
- Kesem Together — In-person day programs held throughout the year; half-day or full-day depending on location
At a glance
- Ages: 6–18 years old
- General schedule: Camp Kesem is a free, overnight summer camp for children ages 6-18. Club Kesem offers virtual gatherings with a variety of themes and age groups. Kesem Together offers free, in-person day programs held throughout the year.
About the provider
Kesem says it has 25 years of support. It says its programs are research-backed, and it references a peer-reviewed study from Georgetown University's Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center that found the programs improve children's quality of life. Kesem also says a 2026 study found Camp Kesem improves the lives of kids facing a parent’s cancer. The program recruits college student leaders from campuses across the country to lead local chapters, provides leadership development training and support, and works with local community groups for some Kesem Together programs.
All programs and services are free for families facing a parent’s cancer. Club Kesem participants can join with camera on or off and can participate via a mobile phone. Kesem does not provide therapy in its programs. Camp counselors and staff include college student leaders, nurses, mental health professionals, and other experienced staff. Kesem Together is offered in parks, community centers, cancer centers, conferences, bowling alleys, pumpkin patches, and other community spaces.
What families say
“Because of Kesem, I am a better human... I've learned what it means to lead with empathy. I've grown stronger, kinder, and more open-hearted. I've found a family that inspires me to be my best self.” — Former Kesem Camper and College Student Volunteer
“Camp Kesem has been magical for our daughter and family, providing support beyond what we could have imagined and really lifting our daughter up when she needed it. It's an incredible program that we are very grateful for!” — kesem parent
“Kesem means the world to me and I look forward to the one week of the year I can be myself. I feel like Kesem is my 2nd home, a family, community, and truly magical.” — kesem camper
Last updated August 24, 2026.
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