Thank you to the Jewish News for featuring this in the Life Magazine.
Camp Simcha families will often say the charity’s support feels like being ‘wrapped in a blanket of love’.
This is because in addition to Camp Simcha’s many practical and therapeutic support services for families who have a seriously ill child – one of its core values is to fight illness with love.
That love comes in many forms says Camp Simcha co-founder and Head of Family Liaison Rachely Plancey.
“Our staff and volunteers wrap their love around a family, which is why Camp Simcha is so much more than a list of services to those it supports.
“Family liaison officers not only give emotional support, they put their heart into finding bespoke and creative ways to bring relief and joy to each family member. At the same time Camp Simcha’s Big Brother and Big Sister volunteers form special bonds with the seriously ill children and siblings they support, bringing fun, respite and a positive, uplifting constant into their lives. Families often stay connected with their volunteers well beyond their time with Camp Simcha.
“Our services team plans every party, outing and residential retreat with such love, care and attention to detail to ensure it is as joyful and stress-free as possible.
“When my husband and I founded Camp Simcha 29 years ago, we began by personally supporting a few families in the local community. Even as the charity grew exponentially, we have always maintained that it should not lose that family feel or that sense of love.”
That sense of being part of the Camp Simcha family also extends to the staff team and lay leaders.
“Everyone works together – supports each other and there is a huge sense of joint purpose, teamwork and commitment to the work we are doing.”