Greetings from Camp KC: A Magical Experience for Kids affected by HIV
Long time volunteer Brandi Herrera shows off her collection of handmade Camp KC name badges.
Every summer, along the beautiful Oregon coast, CAP hosts a summer camp for youth living with or affected by HIV. Camp KC (Kid's Connection!) is a safe, fun place where kids can get away from their usual routine and embrace the joy of the summer camp experience.
Camp KC is brimming with activities and events designed to bring joy, play and community-building to our camp family. Some of the memorable activities that make the week truly special include tie-dye t-shirt making, swimming, playing games, movie nights, silly songs at meal time, and a magical carnival that takes place each year on Visitor's Day.
Our dedicated volunteers and incredible staff play a crucial role in making Camp KC an unforgettable experience. For long-time supporter Brandi Herrera, camp is her “favorite time of the year.” She shares, “Each year kids ages 5-15 come to camp, at no cost to them, to be KIDS. This is my time with my camp family and gratefully, no signal.”
For Brent Blackwell, CAP community service manager, camp is a blend of longtime tradition and new experiences: “Every year at Camp KC, we do a project where all the kids and counselors draw out their hands and write about what Camp or HIV means to them, and then we iron them on to a painted tree!” Started by his cousin and passed down to him, Brent shares about the tradition: “The tree project has challenged me artistically in ways I've never been challenged before, and yet it fuels me to keep practicing and get better at my own skills!” He also thanks his Aunt Lisa and mom Tina for ironing the fabric together to make the project possible.
Camp KC is more than just a week-long event—it’s a celebration of resilience, joy, and community. We are deeply grateful to everyone who supports our mission, from volunteers to sponsors and donors, and we can’t wait to welcome another group of incredible youth next year.
Each year, campers work together on a special art project using fabric cut-outs of their hands. Photo courtesy of Brent Blackwell.
Support Camp KC
Interested in supporting camp or getting involved? Click here to learn more about camp and upcoming volunteer opportunities. Monetary donations also go a long way in sustaining this program that means so much to our camp families. Your support helps us continue providing this invaluable experience for young people living with and affected by HIV, and to support our Camp KC community all year round.