Meet the Team Behind: Okizu

Okizu supports families affected by childhood cancer by providing peer support, respite, mentoring, and recreational programs. Their annual summer camp programs offer a space for patients and families to come together, connect, and have fun in the midst of life’s most challenging moments. Learn more about their work here! 

What is the inspiration behind Okizu? 

The word “okizu” comes from the Sioux language and means unity and healing from hurt. For the past 43 years, Camp Okizu has offered support programs to families who have a child diagnosed with cancer. Children who are diagnosed with cancer miss a normal childhood, as their illness and treatment keeps them from activities that are taken for granted. We quickly learned that all family members are impacted in unique and powerful ways by childhood cancer. Okizu began with the belief that a residential camp can be an ideal setting for children to explore and enjoy a normal life, and for their families to get valuable emotional and practical support. 

What is Camp Okizu? 

The camp has become a second family and a home away from home for thousands of patients, siblings, and parents. Every year, families come together for fun outdoor activities like hiking, ziplining, and kayaking, as well as targeted support groups. This year, we will have seven weekend family camp sessions, two week-long sessions for pediatric oncology patients, and three week-long sessions for their siblings. We also host weekend retreats for those aged 18-25. The programs are held at a variety of camp sites throughout Northern California. 

Can you tell me about the families you work with? 

We work with pediatric oncology treatment centers to serve all families in Northern California and Northern Nevada who are affected by childhood cancer. We understand that the financial burden of pediatric cancer can be overwhelming, so all of our programs are offered free of charge to the families we serve. Our families have been through a lot, and attending camp allows them to connect with others who are coping with the same challenges. For pediatric oncology patients themselves, they can form bonds with other kids facing similar diagnoses and challenges. 

How can individuals get involved in your work?

Okizu relies on volunteers to make camp a reality each summer. Our volunteers contribute over 100,000 annually to make our programs a success for over 3,500 people every year. Volunteers can help at camp, in the office, and at events. Some of our staff and volunteers are former campers themselves. We also host a variety of events like galas, fun runs, lobster feeds, and more. Monetary donations can be made on our website and they go directly to our programming, site costs, and fundraising efforts.