Welcome to Camp Mak-A-Dream, a sanctuary of hope and joy nestled in the picturesque setting of Gold Creek, Montana. Situated in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, this camp is surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of the region, offering a serene escape for all who visit.

Founded with the vision to provide a nurturing retreat for children, teens, and adults facing the challenge of cancer, Camp Mak-A-Dream has been a beacon of light since its inception. Through the generosity of the Montana community and the unwavering commitment of various supporters, the camp opened its doors, allowing participants to engage in a plethora of activities that promote healing, friendship, and fun.

The mission of Camp Mak-A-Dream is simple yet profound: to offer a cost-free, medically supervised environment where campers can discover resilience, strength, and camaraderie, all while enjoying the natural beauty of Montana. This special place enables individuals affected by cancer to connect with others on similar journeys, ensuring that no one has to face their challenges alone.

Camp Mak-A-Dream caters to boys and girls across different age groups, providing tailored programs that suit the needs of children, teenagers, and young adults. Each session is crafted to ensure that every camper can participate fully and safely, regardless of their medical condition. Here, campers not only have the chance to enjoy traditional camp activities but also receive support and encouragement, fostering a community of healing and hope.

Join us at Camp Mak-A-Dream, where incredible memories are made, lifelong friendships are formed, and the spirit of adventure thrives in the great expanse of Montana.

Programs Offered by Camp Mak-A-Dream

Camp Mak-A-Dream offers a diverse range of programs designed to cater to the unique needs and interests of its campers, all within a supportive and medically supervised environment. Each program is carefully structured to ensure that participants can enjoy a fulfilling camp experience while managing their health needs.

Programs and Session Lengths

Children’s Oncology Camp: Specifically designed for children with cancer, this program typically runs for one week. Activities are tailored to be inclusive and accessible, allowing children to engage fully and safely.
Teen Oncology Camp: Aimed at teenagers navigating cancer, this one-week session focuses on peer support and age-appropriate activities that promote independence and resilience.
Young Adult Conference: This shorter session, usually a weekend long, caters to young adults. It’s an opportunity for participants to share experiences and strategies for coping with cancer in their late teens and early adulthood.
Family Camps: These sessions, occurring several times a year, allow entire families to experience camp together. Lasting for a weekend, they help strengthen family bonds through shared activities and support networks.
Siblings Camp: Dedicated to the brothers and sisters of cancer patients, this one-week camp recognizes their unique experiences and provides emotional support through peer activities and professional guidance.

Specialty Programs

Camp Mak-A-Dream also offers specialty programs that focus on various interests:

Arts: Includes crafting, painting, and performing arts, allowing campers to express themselves creatively.
Sports: Features a variety of sports, including swimming, archery, and adapted sports, ensuring everyone can participate.
Science and Nature: Engages campers in the natural world through exploration, experiments, and educational activities about the surrounding environment.

Typical Daily Schedule

A typical day at Camp Mak-A-Dream is structured to balance activity with ample rest, accommodating the energy levels and medical needs of campers:

Morning: After breakfast, campers typically engage in a morning assembly or group activity, followed by a session of their chosen specialty program.
Midday: Lunch is followed by a rest period or free time, allowing campers to relax or engage in light activities.
Afternoon: Post-rest, campers participate in a variety of scheduled activities which could range from arts and crafts to sports, or nature hikes.
Evening: Dinner is followed by evening programs such as campfires, talent shows, or guest speakers, culminating in a good night’s rest.

At Camp Mak-A-Dream, the focus is on making each day full of joy and companionship, allowing every camper to feel included, cared for, and valued.

Accommodations in Camp Mak-A-Dream

Camp Mak-A-Dream ensures that all campers have a comfortable and safe environment during their stay, with facilities designed to cater to their specific needs.

Sleeping Arrangements

Campers stay in well-appointed cabins that are designed to be both cozy and functional. Each cabin is equipped with essential amenities to accommodate the medical needs of the campers. The cabins are grouped by age and program type to foster a supportive community atmosphere among campers with similar experiences and interests. The layout typically includes multiple beds in a communal setting, with areas designated for counselors to provide supervision and assistance as needed.

Dining Options

Nutrition is a key component of the camp experience, and Camp Mak-A-Dream provides a variety of meal options to ensure that all dietary needs are met:

Meal Plans: The camp offers a full board, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks. Meals are prepared daily by a culinary team that focuses on healthy, balanced, and appealing options for children and adults alike.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of dietary needs, especially for those undergoing medical treatments, the camp is equipped to handle special dietary requirements such as gluten-free, vegetarian, lactose-free, and allergen-free meals. Campers or their families are encouraged to communicate any specific needs before their arrival to ensure that these can be accommodated throughout their stay.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

The bathroom and shower facilities at Camp Mak-A-Dream are designed to be accessible and convenient. Each cabin group has its own bathroom facilities, which include multiple showers, sinks, and toilets to accommodate the number of campers in each cabin. The facilities are equipped with handles and seating options to assist campers who may need additional support. These facilities are maintained with the highest standards of cleanliness and hygiene, ensuring comfort and safety for all campers.

Camp Mak-A-Dream’s accommodations are thoughtfully designed to ensure that campers can enjoy their stay without the stresses of everyday life, focusing instead on healing, making new friends, and enjoying new experiences.

Activities in Camp Mak-A-Dream

Camp Mak-A-Dream offers a wide range of activities designed to enrich the camp experience, foster new skills, and create lasting memories. These activities cater to diverse interests and abilities, ensuring every camper can participate and enjoy their time fully.

List of Activities Offered

Swimming: The camp features a pool that is accessible and staffed with lifeguards, allowing campers to enjoy water games, swimming lessons, and free swim time.
Hiking: With the camp located in the scenic Rocky Mountains, guided hikes are a favorite. These are tailored to different fitness and ability levels, allowing everyone to enjoy the beauty of nature.
Crafts: Arts and crafts sessions are a staple, with activities ranging from painting and beadwork to pottery and scrapbooking.
Archery: Taught by trained instructors, archery is a popular activity that focuses on skill development and safety.
Performing Arts: Summer camps can engage in drama, dance, and music workshops, culminating in performances that celebrate their new skills.
Cooking Classes: These classes teach basic cooking skills and allow campers to prepare simple dishes, emphasizing fun and teamwork.

Special Events or Traditions

Camp Mak-A-Dream hosts several special events and traditions that are highlights for many campers:

Campfire Nights: Regular campfire gatherings include storytelling, singing, and marshmallow roasting, fostering a sense of community and shared experience.
Talent Shows: Campers get a chance to showcase their talents, whether it’s singing, dancing, magic tricks, or other special skills, in a supportive environment.
End-of-Camp Celebration: A festive event that allows campers to celebrate the friendships and achievements of their camp session with games, awards, and special performances.

Skill Development Opportunities

The camp not only focuses on fun and recreation but also on developing valuable skills:

Leadership Training: Older campers and those in teen programs often have opportunities to take on leadership roles, helping to plan activities and mentor younger campers.
Environmental Education: Through nature walks and science activities, campers learn about local wildlife, conservation, and the importance of preserving natural habitats.
Health and Wellness Workshops: These workshops cover topics relevant to campers’ well-being, such as nutrition, meditation, and managing stress, tailored to their ages and life situations.

At Camp Mak-A-Dream, each activity and event is thoughtfully designed to ensure that every camper, regardless of their health challenges, can participate fully and gain a sense of achievement, joy, and community.

The staff of Camp Mak-A-Dream

Camp Mak-A-Dream is dedicated to providing a safe, supportive, and enjoyable environment for all campers. The camp maintains high standards for its staff, ensuring that each member is well-qualified and adequately trained to meet the needs of the campers.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

The camp prioritizes individual attention and care with a favorable staff-to-camper ratio. Typically, the ratio is set at about one staff member for every three campers. This ratio allows staff to closely monitor the well-being of each camper, engage more deeply with them, and provide personalized care and support throughout their stay at camp.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

The hiring process for Camp Mak-A-Dream staff is thorough, with several steps designed to ensure that all team members are not only qualified but also deeply committed to the camp’s mission. Here’s what the process generally involves:

Background Checks: Comprehensive background checks are mandatory for all potential staff to ensure safety and security.
Educational Requirements: Depending on the role, staff members are often required to have relevant educational backgrounds, such as degrees in education, psychology, recreation, nursing, or social work.
Experience with Children: Experience working with children, particularly those with special needs or illnesses, is highly valued.
Interviews: Multiple interviews help assess candidates’ compatibility with the camp’s values and their ability to handle the unique challenges of a camp environment for children with serious illnesses.

Training and Certifications

Once hired, staff members undergo extensive training to ensure they are well-prepared for their roles at the camp:

CPR and First Aid: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid to respond effectively to any health emergencies that may arise.
Medical Training: For those involved in direct care, additional training in handling specific medical conditions common among campers is provided. This includes understanding how to manage symptoms, administer medications, and use medical equipment.
Behavior Management and Child Protection: Training sessions also cover effective behavior management techniques and child protection policies to ensure a safe and nurturing environment.
Specific Activity Training: Staff responsible for activities such as swimming, archery, or hiking receive specialized training to manage these safely and inclusively.

The training is designed to be comprehensive and ongoing, ensuring that all staff remain informed about the best practices in childcare, medical needs, and recreational safety. This meticulous approach to staffing and training enables Camp Mak-A-Dream to maintain its commitment to a high-quality, enriching, and safe camp experience for all participants.

Safety and Health in Camp Mak-A-Dream

Camp Mak-A-Dream places a high priority on the safety and health of all its campers and staff. The camp has established comprehensive safety protocols and procedures and maintains robust on-site health facilities to ensure the well-being of everyone participating in its programs.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Routine Safety Drills: Camp Mak-A-Dream conducts regular safety drills, including fire, weather, and lockdown drills, to ensure that both campers and staff are familiar with emergency procedures.
Secure Camp Grounds: The camp is equipped with secure entrances and exits, and visitors are carefully monitored and logged to ensure a safe environment for all campers.
Activity-Specific Safety Measures: Each activity offered at the camp, from swimming to hiking, is guided by specific safety rules and protocols designed to prevent accidents and injuries. Equipment is regularly inspected and maintained, and safety gear must be worn as necessary.

On-site Health Facilities and Staff

Medical Facilities: Camp Mak-A-Dream is equipped with a full-service medical facility that can handle both routine and emergency healthcare needs. This includes treatment rooms, essential medical equipment, and a stock of necessary medications.
Medical Staff: The health center is staffed by licensed healthcare professionals, including nurses and physicians, who are present at the camp 24/7 during camp sessions. These professionals have expertise in oncology, pediatric care, and emergency medicine.
Partnerships with Local Hospitals: In case of serious medical issues, the camp has established protocols for rapid transport to nearby hospitals. Relationships with local medical centers ensure that campers receive prompt and efficient care when needed.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Emergency Response Plan: The camp has a well-defined emergency response plan, which includes guidelines for handling various types of emergencies, from medical issues to natural disasters.
Communication Protocol: In the event of an emergency, there is a clear communication protocol to inform all relevant parties, including camp staff, local authorities, and parents/guardians.
Training for Handling Emergencies: All camp staff undergo regular training to update their skills in emergency response and first aid to ensure they are prepared to handle situations promptly and effectively.

By maintaining rigorous safety standards and protocols, Camp Mak-A-Dream ensures that the camp environment is as safe and supportive as possible, allowing campers to focus on enjoying their experience and engaging fully in all the activities offered.

Cost and Registration in Camp Mak-A-Dream

Camp Mak-A-Dream strives to make its programs accessible to all, especially considering the special needs of its campers. Here’s a detailed look at the cost, registration process, and financial support options available to families.

Cost of Attendance and What It Includes

Camp Mak-A-Dream is committed to ensuring that no camper is turned away due to financial constraints. Thanks to generous donations and fundraising efforts, the camp is able to offer its programs at no cost to families. This includes:

All lodging and meals during the stay
Full access to all camp activities and programs
Medical care provided by on-site health professionals
Transportation assistance to and from the camp for those who need it

Registration Process and Deadlines

Registration Process: To register, families or participants need to fill out an application form available on the camp’s website. This form collects necessary information about the camper’s medical history, dietary needs, and any special accommodations they might require.
Deadlines: Registration typically opens several months in advance of each camp session and remains open until all spots are filled. Specific deadlines for each session are listed on the camp’s website, and potential campers are encouraged to apply early to secure a spot.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Given that the camp is offered at no cost to families, the typical concerns about payment plans, refunds, and cancellation policies are significantly reduced. However, families are encouraged to communicate any changes in their plans as early as possible so the camp can offer the spot to another camper.

Availability of Scholarships or Financial Aid

Scholarships: As the camp itself is free, additional scholarships are generally not necessary for attendance. However, the camp does provide additional financial assistance for travel when needed.
Financial Aid: For families incurring extra expenses related to getting their child to and from the camp, such as travel from distant locations, Camp Mak-A-Dream works to provide necessary support either through direct financial aid or by coordinating with community organizations to cover these costs.

Camp Mak-A-Dream’s policies ensure that each child, regardless of their family’s financial situation, has the opportunity to experience the joy and community of camp without the burden of cost. This approach allows families to focus on supporting their child’s healing and enjoyment rather than worrying about financial logistics.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Mak-A-Dream

Preparing for a stay at Camp Mak-A-Dream is an important step for both campers and their parents. The camp provides detailed guidance to ensure everyone is well-prepared for the experience. Here’s what you need to know about packing, rules and policies, and tips for first-timers.

Packing List

Camp Mak-A-Dream recommends that campers bring the following items:

Clothing: Weather-appropriate clothing, including items that can be layered. Include long pants, shorts, t-shirts, a jacket, and a raincoat. Don’t forget a hat and sturdy shoes for outdoor activities.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets (check if these are provided by the camp).
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Medications: Clearly labeled, with dosage instructions. All medications must be handed over to the camp medical staff upon arrival.
Miscellaneous: Flashlight, water bottle, and any personal items that would make the camper feel more at home.

Rules and Policies

Technology Use: Camp Mak-A-Dream encourages a technology-free environment to help campers engage fully with their surroundings and each other. Personal electronic devices like smartphones, tablets, and laptops are typically not allowed or are required to be used minimally and responsibly.
Visitation: Due to the camp’s structured schedule and the need to maintain a secure environment, visitation is generally restricted to designated visiting days. This helps ensure the safety and well-being of all campers.
Behavior Expectations: Respect for fellow campers, staff, and the environment is a cornerstone of the camp’s policies. Campers are expected to follow all guidelines and instructions provided by camp staff.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

For Campers:
- Be open to new experiences. Camp is a fantastic opportunity to try new things and meet new people.
- Participate actively. The more you engage, the more fun you’ll have.
- Communicate your needs. If you’re feeling unwell or need help, don’t hesitate to tell a camp counselor.
For Parents:
- Prepare emotionally. It’s natural to feel a bit anxious about sending your child to camp, especially if they have special health needs. Trust that they are in safe hands and that the experience is incredibly beneficial for their growth and happiness.
- Stay informed. Read all the materials provided by the camp and don’t hesitate to contact them with any questions or concerns.
- Pack together. Help your child pack, ensuring they have everything they need and are involved in the process so they know what they have with them.

Camp Mak-A-Dream is dedicated to creating a supportive, enriching environment for its campers. By following these preparation guidelines, parents and campers can ensure that they are ready for a rewarding camp experience.

Camp Mak-A-Dream stands as a remarkable sanctuary that not only offers respite and adventure in the scenic heart of Montana but also serves as a vital community for those affected by cancer. With a wide range of activities tailored to enrich the lives of its campers, comprehensive on-site medical care, and a commitment to safety and accessibility, the camp ensures a nurturing and inclusive environment for everyone.

By removing the financial barrier to attendance and focusing on personal growth, skill development, and communal support, Camp Mak-A-Dream profoundly impacts the lives of its campers, allowing them to forge lasting friendships, build resilience, and create joyful memories. This camp is more than just a summer retreat—it is a place of healing, celebration, and hope, embodying its mission to empower those on their cancer journey through the transformative experience of camp life.