This project focuses on Camp Kesem, a free summer camp for children whose parents are affected by cancer. During my time at James Madison University, I have served as a camp counselor with Kesem at JMU, where I have witnessed firsthand the powerful impact the organization has on the campers it supports.
Kesem is important because more than 5 million children in the United States experience a parent’s cancer diagnosis, yet few resources exist specifically for them. Kesem is the only national organization dedicated to supporting these children through a community built on connection, understanding, and care.
No child should feel alone while navigating something as difficult as a parent’s illness. Camp Kesem creates a space where campers can find joy, support, and people who understand what they are going through, ensuring they always have someone to lean on.
The objective of this prototype is to align with Kesem’s values and help create a space where children feel comfortable and excited about attending camp. Since everything Kesem works towards is “for the kids,” this concept is designed with that same focus in mind.
One of the biggest challenges for many children is finding the courage to attend camp in the first place. While some Kesem chapters send welcome messages, creating something more universal could help every child feel connected before arriving.
This prototype proposes an illustrated children’s book that introduces the excitement and magic of camp. There could be two versions, one for younger campers and one adapted for older campers. The book could also include interactive elements, such as prompts or activities, that children can bring to camp, helping them feel connected and engaged with the Kesem community. This is ultimately a tool to generate excitement for camp. How exciting is it as a child to receive soemthing in the mail just for them! This is another tool to create comfort for camp.
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Overall, the research I have conducted this year has brought me closer to Kesem and to all those affected by cancer. While Kesem brings so much good into the world and creates meaningful magic for the kids it supports, it exists because of a disease as devastating as cancer. Nonetheless, until there is a cure, there’s Kesem.
As a counselor and executive member of the Kesem chapter at JMU, this project has become especially meaningful to me. Knowing that these prototypes can have a real impact, both on the children Kesem serves and on those unfamiliar with the organization, has been incredibly rewarding. By bringing more awareness to Kesem and its mission, this work ultimately supports every child impacted by this organization.
I hope you have learned something from this research, as I have, and that you can feel the Kesem magic too.
