Camp Hope Parent Resources

The Camp Hope Parent Resource page is your go-to guide for everything you need to know before your child arrives at camp. Here you’ll find helpful information on what to pack, how our check-in and check-out processes work, daily schedules, safety procedures, cabin life, medical care, and what kids can expect throughout the week. Whether you’re a returning family or joining us for the first time, this resource is designed to give you peace of mind and help your camper feel confident and excited.

At Camp Hope, your child’s safety, comfort, and joy are our top priorities. We provide a medically safe, fully supervised camp experience where kids can explore, laugh, build friendships, and create unforgettable memories—completely free of charge. This page will walk you through all the essential details so you can prepare with ease and know exactly what to expect every step of the way.

If you have additional questions after reviewing the information, our team is always here to help. We can’t wait to welcome your child to a week of connection, adventure, and hope at East Bay Camp!

1. Talk Positively About Camp

Kids take their cues from the adults they trust. The best way to prepare your child is to talk about camp with excitement and confidence.

Share what they can look forward to: swimming, crafts, silly competitions, new friends, campfires, and our supportive staff.
Avoid saying things like, “If you don’t like it, I’ll come pick you up.”
Comments like this—even said with love—can unintentionally create anxiety or uncertainty.
Instead, emphasize that camp is a safe place where they’ll be surrounded by caring adults who understand medical needs and know how to create fun.

Let them know that you will miss them (that’s normal!), but that you are excited for them to have this incredible experience.

2. Bring Comfort Items From Home

Every child is different, and little things can go a long way in helping them settle in. Feel free to pack:

A favorite blanket or stuffed animal
A small pillow or cozy pajamas
A family photo
Notes from home placed in their luggage

These familiar items can provide comfort, especially at bedtime.

3. Stay Connected Through Photos (Waldo App)

Camp Hope uses Waldo, a secure facial-recognition photo platform, to help parents feel connected throughout the week.

If you opt in, parents receive photos of their child directly on their phone.
The service is paid for by Camp Hope, so there is no cost to families.
Many parents say that seeing these smiling photos brings tremendous peace and joy.
If you prefer not to have photos taken of your child, you can call the director to check on your child.

4. Leave Cell Phones at Home

Camp is an unplugged environment. We work hard to create a safe, distraction-free space where campers can reconnect with nature, friendship, and the fun of being present.

Do not send cell phones or tablets with your child unless a tablet is needed for communication or other therapeutic needs.
If a phone makes its way to camp, it will be collected and returned at the end of the week.

This unplugged approach helps kids fully participate, build independence, and enjoy the magic of camp without screens.

5. You Can Check In—We’re Here for You

We know parents may feel anxious, especially families who are new to Camp Hope.

If at any time you need reassurance, you can contact our Executive Director:

Phone: 309-810-9898
Email: camphopefoundation@gmail.com

6. Practice Routines Together

To help your child feel confident:

Talk through what a typical camp day might look like (activities, meals, rest time).
Practice shower routines, carrying a water bottle, or organizing a small backpack.
Reassure them that counselors and medical staff will help with anything they need.

7. Prepare for Medical Needs

Our medical team is specially trained to care for children with cancer, sickle cell disease, and related blood disorders. These are the same doctors and nurses they have seen at the clinic for their treatment.

Before camp:

Review your child’s medication schedule.
Send all medication in original containers for safety.
Make sure to send any supportive medical devices.
Talk about how medical staff will administer meds and support them.
Reassure your child that “the medical team is there to help you have fun and stay healthy.”

8. Encourage Independence & Confidence

Many parents find it helpful to remind their child:

That making new friends takes courage but they are friends that last a lifetime
That it’s okay to feel shy at first
That Camp Hope staff will be with them every step

Kids often grow tremendously during the week—emotionally, socially, and in confidence.

9. Let Us Know Anything That Helps Your Child Thrive

We welcome notes from parents about:

Bedtime routines
Fears or worries
Learning styles
Social or emotional needs
Comfort items
Triggers or medical complexities

The more we know, the better we can support your child.

10. Celebrate the Adventure

Camp Hope is a place where kids rediscover childhood—free from judgment, full of empathy, and surrounded by peers who understand them. Preparing your child with positivity, comfort, and reassurance sets the stage for an incredible week.

If you have questions, big or small, we are here.

And don’t forget to visit our Testimonials page for stories from parents who have walked this journey before you.

11. Camp Hope Packing List

Camp Hope Packing Lis

Each year at Camp Hope we have a different theme. Once you have completed registration for your camper/s you will receive an email with more details about Camp Hope and the theme. Your camper is welcome to bring costumes, accessories or anything they wish to bring to participate in the theme.

Important reminders:

Label all belongings and luggage.
Leave expensive items at home.
Camp is MESSY, SILLY, and JOYFUL—pack play clothes!
Please do not send cell phones, electronics, food, knives, vape items, or anything unsafe. Phones will be collected and returned at checkout.

Medications & Medical Items

Please pack all medication in the ORIGINAL containers.
This includes both scheduled and “as needed” medications.

Bring any additional items needed to administer medication, such as:

Juice, applesauce, or other swallowing aids
Assistive medical equipment
Supplies related to medical care or mobility

Clothing

Plan for 6 days of camp, warm days, cool evenings, and lots of activity:

Everyday Clothes

6–8 undergarments
5–6 pairs shorts
5–8 pairs socks
6–8 T-shirts
3–5 pairs jeans/pants
2–3 sets pajamas
2–3 sweatshirts (nights are cool; no sweatshirts will be provided this year)
1 jacket
1–2 swimsuits (one-piece preferred)

Shoes

1 pair tennis shoes
1 pair shower shoes
1 pair other shoes
Optional: hiking boots

Theme Options (Optional)

Costumes and accessories
Fun hats/apparel
Talent show costumes or props

Personal Care Items

Toothbrush + toothpaste
Shampoo/conditioner
Comb/brush
Soap or body wash
Hair accessories
Sunscreen
Bug spray
Lip ointment with sunscreen
Lotion
Shower tote or caddy
Glasses/contacts + solution
Pull-ups if needed (nighttime incontinence is common and handled privately)

Bedding & Bath

Twin bed linens
Sleeping bag or blanket
Pillow
4–5 bath towels and washcloths
1 beach towel
Laundry bag
Extra garbage/shopping bags for wet or dirty clothes

Comfort Items (Optional but encouraged!)

Campers are welcome to bring items that help them feel safe and cozy:

Stuffed animal
Family photos
Journal
Paper, pen, stamps (if they want to write home)
Flashlight
Ear plugs
Disposable camera
Special comfort objects

Packing Tips

Totes or plastic bins work great for organizing and keeping clothes clean.
Clearly mark your child’s name on everything to help us return lost items.
Expect clothes to get dirty, wet, and paint-splattered—this is part of the fun!
Please DO NOT bring:
- Cell phones
- Handheld games/electronics
- Food or candy
- Knives or weapons
- Cigarettes/vapes
- Drugs or illegal substances

12. A Typical Day at Camp Hope

Each day at Camp Hope is structured, safe, and filled with fun! While times may vary slightly by age group and activity rotation, the outline below shows what a typical day looks like for our campers.

8:00 AM – Breakfast

A hearty, kid-friendly breakfast to fuel an exciting day.

9:00–12:15 PM – Morning Activity Rotations

Campers rotate through scheduled activities with their cabin groups, such as arts & crafts, sports, games, waterfront, and special themed programs.

12:30 PM – Lunch

Everyone comes together for a nutritious lunch and a chance to connect.

1:00 PM – Cabin Time

A quiet break in the middle of the day. Campers can rest, read, play cards, listen to music together, chat with cabin mates, or just recharge.

2:00 PM – Afternoon Activities

Larger group favorites like:

Fishing
Swimming
Beach/waterfront time
Target sports
Nature exploration
Holiday-themed activities (based on the week’s theme)

3:00 PM – Choice Time Rotation

Campers choose from a variety of activities they love—giving them independence and a chance to explore new interests.

4:00 PM – Free Time

Relaxed downtime for showers, games, hanging out with friends, or visiting the camp store.

6:00 PM – Dinner

A delicious meal shared with friends and staff.

7:00 PM – All-Camp Evening Activity

Each night features a big camp-wide event such as:

Theme Night
Camp Dance
All-Camp Game
Talent Show
Campfire or Campout Night
Special holiday activities for our theme week

9:00 PM – Optional Fireside Chat or Late-Night Activities (for older campers)

A calming way to wind down, reflect, or enjoy an extra activity tailored to older age groups.

Lights Out

Bedtime varies by age group to ensure everyone gets the sleep they need.

13. Camp Traditions

Camp Hope is filled with traditions that create joy, belonging, and a deep sense of community. Each of these moments is designed to help campers celebrate who they are, connect with others, and experience the magic of camp in a meaningful way.

Character at Camp Awards

During our Closing Ceremony, we take time to recognize the incredible qualities each camper brings to Camp Hope. Awards may include:

Years as a Survivor
Sickle Cell Warrior Milestones
Years Attended at Camp Hope
Special character awards celebrating kindness, courage, leadership, humor, compassion, and positivity

These recognitions help campers feel seen, valued, and proud of their accomplishments—both big and small.

Talent Show

One of our most joyful traditions is the Camp Hope Talent Show! Campers have the opportunity to share their talents—whether it’s singing, dancing, comedy, magic tricks, art, storytelling, or something completely unique.

Participation is completely optional, and the atmosphere is supportive, silly, and full of encouragement. It’s a favorite night for many campers and an unforgettable memory of bravery and fun. Make sure your camper brings any props needed.

Learning Through Play: Medical Education Moments

Our nursing students and child life students lead short, age-appropriate activities to help campers better understand medical diagnoses relevant to maintaining healthy bodies, and how to stay safe.

These sessions are:

Play-based
Developmentally appropriate
Confidence-building
Designed to empower—not overwhelm

Kids explore real medical items in a gentle, hands-on way that makes learning fun and approachable.

Remembrance Service

Camp Hope is a place where every child’s story matters—including the stories of our friends who are no longer with us.

We hold a simple, gentle remembrance moment during the week. Using a small legacy item, we take a brief time to:

Quietly honor campers we have loved
Celebrate the impact they made
Remind every child that it's okay to remember
Affirm that Camp Hope will always carry their friends in our hearts

This is not a sad or heavy event. It is designed to be comforting, respectful, and deeply supportive, helping campers understand that love and memory are always welcome at Camp Hope.

14. Camp Hope Community Agreement

A caring commitment to each other

Camp Hope is a supportive, close-knit community where every camper, volunteer, and staff member deserves to feel safe, respected, and valued. To help us create that environment, we ask all campers to agree to the following expectations during their time at Camp Hope:

1. We Treat Everyone with Kindness and Respect

I will consider the feelings, comfort, and needs of others.
I will speak kindly and act in ways that help everyone feel welcome and included.
I will not lie, cheat, or take things that do not belong to me.

2. We Keep Ourselves and Others Safe

I will make safe choices and avoid risky behavior.
I will participate only in activities that feel comfortable for my body and health needs.
I will follow instructions from counselors, medical staff, and program staff to help keep our camp community safe.

3. We Respect Camp Hope’s People, Space, and Traditions

I will treat other campers, staff, and all camp property with care.
I will help keep cabins and shared spaces clean and positive.

4. We Use Technology and Social Media Responsibly

To protect everyone’s privacy and emotional safety:

I will keep messages about Camp Hope and my fellow campers positive and respectful.
I will not use hurtful, mean, or untrue language online or in texts.
I will not post photos or videos of other campers or staff without permission.
I understand that personal cell phones and devices are not allowed at camp.

5. We Follow Camp Hope’s Substance-Free Policy

Camp Hope is completely tobacco-, alcohol-, and drug-free (including e-cigarettes or vaping devices).
Only medications prescribed to the camper or approved over-the-counter medications may be used, and all will be administered by Camp Hope medical staff.
Marijuana and marijuana-derived products (including those medically prescribed) are not permitted at Camp.

6. We Honor Everyone’s Identity and Humanity

Camp Hope does not tolerate bullying, harassment, or hurtful language.
Every camper is welcomed and respected—regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, abilities, or background.
We create an environment where all children feel safe.

If a Camper Needs Support

Our goal is always to help children learn, grow, and repair—not punish.
If a camper struggles, our staff will work gently with them to problem-solve, reflect, and make safe choices.

In rare cases where repeated or serious behaviors endanger the safety or emotional well-being of others, a camper may need to go home early. If that happens, parents will be contacted immediately for next steps.