Endowment Power: Securing Camp Rainbow’s Future

For many children, summer involves vacations, carefree trips to the playground or swimming pool or perhaps a week spent with grandparents or at summer camp. A child receiving treatment for cancer may not have the same opportunities. Camp Rainbow aims to remedy some of what a patient might miss, as well as provide a community of support. Young patients with cancer or a blood-related disease can enjoy special summer camps created to bring respite from the weight of treatment, while continuing to meet their medical needs – all free of charge. Camp Rainbow founders knew the future must include a thoughtful plan to safeguard the camp’s ability to grow and serve families for years to come. The answer was a YouthBridge endowment fund to generate income, and to provide financial growth and long-term financial stability.

A Place Where Kids Can Just Be Kids

Begun in 1988, Camp Rainbow provides seven free camp experiences and programs for children and families affected by childhood cancer and blood-related diseases. According to Heather Bachman, Executive Director, feelings of isolation, loss of normal childhood experiences, and the emotional toll of long-term treatment create unique challenges for patients and their families. Camp Rainbow creates spaces where kids can simply be kids and families can find understanding and support. Camps include age-based overnight programs for patients ages 6-18, siblings, families, and young patients with their caretakers. In addition, children receiving inpatient care in three area hospitals (with a fourth being added soon) can experience Camp-In on the oncology floor.

Courage Shines Bright Every Summer

Heather expressed deep admiration for the courage shown by Camp Rainbow kids and their families. She described acts of bravery both big and small – parents completing camp applications from hospital beds, children packing swimsuits alongside chemo meds, and families taking a deep breath as they trust camp staff with their most precious treasure. Over time, kids grow in confidence, evolving into “just kids” having fun. One 11-year-old, after six summers at Camp Rainbow, even stood before the entire camp to lead a campfire song – a powerful reminder of belonging and hope.

“Every summer at Camp Rainbow is filled with countless acts of bravery – quiet, powerful moments that change lives.”

Camp Rainbow + YouthBridge = A Winning Partnership

Camp Rainbow’s Board of Directors engaged a consulting firm to help identify potential partners for endowment services. Heather shared that YouthBridge quickly emerged as the clear winner – a perfect fit thanks to their shared belief in investing in the future to create lasting impact and their deep knowledge of the nonprofit landscape. The Board was particularly impressed by YouthBridge’s partnership approach, taking the time to understand Camp Rainbow and thoughtfully address every question. As Heather concluded, “With YouthBridge, we know our endowment is in trusted hands, growing in a way that will sustain Camp Rainbow’s mission for years to come.”