About Camp Watcha-Wanna-Do
Empowering children surviving cancer/brain tumor with life changing camp experiences.
Our Mission
Camp Watcha-Wanna-Do provides recreational opportunities for children surviving cancer or a brain tumor and their families. We believe that every child deserves the chance to experience the joy, friendship, and normalcy that comes with traditional camp activities.
Our Vision
A world where children surviving cancer or brain tumor have access to the healing power of camp experiences, creating lasting memories and building resilience for their journey ahead.
Our Values
Hope, courage, friendship, and fun guide everything we do. We create a safe, supportive environment where children can just be kids.
"It is our belief that all people, regardless of their individual circumstances, flourish through recreational activities."
What We Believe In
Teamwork
Working together builds stronger bonds and creates support systems that last beyond camp.
Persistence
Teaching campers that challenges can be overcome with determination and support.
Friendship
Creating connections with others who understand the unique journey of childhood cancer.
Success
Celebrating every achievement, big or small, and building confidence for life's challenges.
Our Story
Camp Watcha-Wanna-Do (EIN 35-1847286) began in 1992 as a one-week resident camp for 38 children surviving cancer. In less than three years, over 100 kids a week were hiking, swimming and playing their way from the worries of cancer.
We are a long-standing member of Children's Oncology Camping Association International (COCA-I), which allows for networking and program expansion opportunities and helps in providing a safe and memorable experience for campers.
COCA-I Gold Ribbon Certification
This set of standards provides safety to our campers.
The Camp Experience
From the day camp is over, Camp Watcha-Wanna-Do campers are already looking forward to next summer's week of fun—and normalcy.
The campers have lived through cancer and the aftermath of physical and emotional concerns; they know they are just a little bit different from the other kids. Here at Camp Watcha-Wanna-Do, each camper experiences freedom and acceptance. And hope + love + fun.
“Camp provides a good time to get away from all the medical stress. I love getting to see the kids bond with others going through similar issues. Camp is way more fun than work!”
— Shelley
Founder & Camp Nurse, 30+ years • 30+ years
Activities Available
Medical Supervision
We know the kids are excited at the possibility of spending a week away from home, or the hospital. But we want parents to know that camp is a home away from home, and is just as safe.
All programs are medically supervised with pediatric oncology nurses present at all times. When needed, a pediatric hematologist/oncologist is available and children may receive their medical treatment at camp as appropriate.
Camp Location
Camp programs are free to participants and held at YMCA Camp Potawatomi, surrounded by woods, meadows, lowlands and Blackman Lake.
Life at Camp
See the joy, friendships, and adventures that happen every day at camp
Join Our Mission
Whether through volunteering, donating, or spreading awareness, there are many ways to support our campers and their families.