Making Moments Count at Sibling Camp
June 30, 2026
This past June we hosted our fifth annual Sibling Camp for siblings of Crescent Cove children. While these three days are filled with fun, friendship, and unforgettable memories for the campers, they’re just as meaningful for volunteers and staff who have the privilege of spending time alongside these incredible kids.
A Community of Volunteers
More than 250 volunteer hours were donated to make this year’s Sibling Camp possible, including a dedicated group of volunteers who serve as camp counselors, each assigned a small group of campers. The counselors sleep over at Crescent Cove during the entire camp experience, going to bed late and rising early to be ready when the first campers begin stirring. Some even schedule vacation time from work so they can be a part of Sibling Camp, and we’re incredibly grateful for their commitment.
Other volunteers come for daily shifts to assist campers in activities like tie-dying, navigating an obstacle course, or taking part in lake activities.
“As a volunteer during Sibling Camp, I get to share my expertise of canoeing and being on the water,” says Joan Johnson. “Many of the kids who come to camp have never been in a canoe before, I love helping them gain confidence that they can do it!”
Resilience Defined
The weather wasn’t especially cooperative this year with rain predicted for most of the second day, when canoeing and beach activities were planned. Camp directors decided that only true safety concerns, like lightning, would keep campers off the lake.
“I think I was asked a hundred times ‘Are we still going?’” laughs Katy Glitsos, Volunteer Coordinator and House Manager, and the creator of Crescent Cove’s Sibling Camp. “These kids are accustomed to much-anticipated experiences being canceled due to a sibling’s unexpected hospitalization or health issues. Rain was not going to keep them away from the lake.”
“The last group of canoers went out in a pretty hard rain, and that did not slow them down for a minute,” says Joan. Thanks to their resilience, they got to see herons and egrets, baby ducks, turtles, and even an otter.
Fueled by Care and Friendship
Of course, Sibling Camp wouldn’t be the same without our incredible volunteer Kitchen Crew, whose friendship has grown through their shared experience of keeping everyone well-fed and energized throughout camp.
“I get joy from seeing the kids relax, laugh, and build friendships with others who understand their situation,” says Deb Cardinal, a camp volunteer. “It’s a reminder that even small acts of support can make a big difference.”
We affectionately call Sibling Camp the "best three days of summer." While every day at Crescent Cove is filled with meaningful moments, there’s something especially magical about watching siblings laugh, play, make new friends, and simply enjoy being kids together. Thanks to the dedication of our volunteers, community, and staff, these three days are filled with the joy, connection, and memories that define Making Moments Count.
Our Director of Nursing, Kathryn, helping a camper make a treat.
Volunteer Joan shows campers how to paddle a canoe before launching onto the lake.
A young camper gave our Kitchen Crew volunteers hugs at the end of the volunteers' shift.