Camp Quality Michigan

I have been volunteering for this organization for 13 years. The first week I was a part of camp changed my life forever. Sending children with cancer to camp can seem a little weird when you first hear it... Like, don't these kids need a cure more than a week away? But as much as we are all hoping and striving that the researchers find a cure as soon as possible, this camp helps make what time they have special and fun again. This organization was founded on the belief that there is nothing we can do about the quantity of years we have in this life, but we can do something about the quality of it. Camp Quality helps kids with cancer and their families smile and laugh and enjoy the fun of being a kid again.

I have been able to volunteer my time with a few of the events Camp Quality has done as well as I have been able to help at one of the fundraisers. It is awesome to see the events and opportunities they give to the children who have through the unimaginable.

Camp Quality has been there for us in many ways to make us feel like family. The volunteers become your close friends because they care so much for the kids. When my son had cancer they gave him special opportunities like camp and many other things to give us hope. They mean the world to us!

Camp Quality Michigan has some of the generous , kind hearted and loyal volunteers I have ever met. The joy they bring to the families they serve is beyond measure and continues beyond the summer camp experience .

I learned about Camp Quality in 2003 when my oldest grandson at the age of 6 was diagnosed with Wilm's Tumor, a kidney cancer and his Mom found this camp and Kyle went and had the best time. He couldn't talk enough about what a great time he had and I saw on the website that they needed volunteers since each camper has their own companion and I decided to volunteer and got my best friend to come also. We continued volunteering for the next 10 years. It was very rewarding to see the children have a week at camp and enjoy everything that the camp had to offer them. My grandson went every year until he graduated and then came back as a companion. He is now 21 and volunteers every summer at both North and South Camp. We also made some life long friends while being at camp.
Would definitely recommend Camp Quality.

Camp Quality Michigan was something we hadn’t heard of until our daughter completed cancer treatment. Through other cancer survivors we learned about this incredible nonprofit organization who brought such joy to our daughter for three summers! She still remains in contact with her camp companion and other friends she has met from her camp experience. We strongly recommend this incredible organization and it’s efforts to relieve those in need and return smiles to the faces of children who endured so much!

My daughter has been a camper since 2010. It is a wonderful place for kids to get away from everything and just be a kid. The companions are always wonderful. Staff a.d volunteers are all the best and love on the kids in an incredible way. My daughter is dreading graduation from camp but I am sure she will return as a volunteer as an adult. Truly amazing experience every year!

An excellent resource for my son as a cancer survivor.

I help volunteer as a camp nurse at Camp Quality! I can’t imagine a better organization! The love, compassion, and services provided to children with cancer and their families is unrivaled. The joy in the kids faces as they come back year after year shows how important and necessary this program is. The fun opportunities and escape that a week at camp provides to these kids for no cost at all...is magical for them, for their families, and for us volunteers as well. It’s just great.

our quilt group started making quilts for the kids. Once I visited the camp and interacted with them and the volunteers, I was hooked. These kids have been through so much but they still have such strong and giving spirits that they are my heroes. I volunteered as a nurse for about seven years and last year switched to the supervisor role. I loved being out with the kids all day. I have never experienced a program with such giving volunteers including the companions. They are with those kids 24/7 and they do it with smiles on their faces. These young people make me proud and I know they will continue to make a huge positive contribution to our world, when people ask me about my week at Camp Quality I simply say, it’s the best week all year. I leave filled up with hope and joy and blessed beyond measure.

Camp Quality Michigan has provided my son and our entire family with love and support during the hardest time in our lives, childhood cancer. Camp has meant so much to Davidand it is the highlight of his year. It offers a chance for him to experience friendship from the campers and volunteers and a chance to be a kid again. All the volunteers are like family to us. There have been many family weekend trips we have attended and were so honored to attend. These are the most fun memories of David’s childhood. And also memories our family will cherish forever. Camp Quality amazes me with the opportunity it provides every year to families affected by cancer. It really has been the light at the end of the tunnel for us. We are so blessed to have CQ in our lives

The most amazing volunteers that I have ever worked with! They truly share their time and energy just for the kids, expecting nothing in return.

This will be my eleventh year at Camp Quality! It is my favorite part of the whole year. I have gotten to meet so many amazing people and do somethings I never thought I would do at this camp. With two main camp locations and Beaver Island Teen Camp(☘️

Camp Quality is a BLESSING on this earth. I had stage 4 ovarian cancer when I was a child and went to camp Quality for 8 years straight, making some of the best friends of my life. Now I'm 20 years old and back as a volunteer at camp and couldn't be happier. Camp Quality is golden and so are all of the people who run such an amazing event!

We LOVE Camp Quality!! They were so kind to my daughter. I felt more at ease leaving her with the great companion.

This was my son's first year and it exceeded our expectations.

Most amazing non profit/organization I have ever been a part of!

This past year was my first year being a companion for camp quality north and it was one of the best decisions I've ever made! All the kids were so appreciative, outgoing, and amazing to be around! I cant wait for next year!

Camp quality has been a wonderful opportunity for our granddaughter. Thank you

I was a companion at Camp Quality for about 7 years, and also a member of the Camp Organizing Committee in Boyne City. It was the best and most fulfilling time of my life. I would recommend being a Companion to anyone who has a desire to serve others.

Camp Quality Michigan has been serving children with cancer for 29 years with the help of a couple thousand wonderful volunteers over the 29 years in Michigan.
CAMP QUALITY has had tremendous donors who have given so that children with cancer can be kids again. All who have served and given have been blessed by knowing these amazing children. Thank you to everyone and those who will help in the future.

Camp Quality has made a huge impact on my son David and our whole family. He was not able to do a lot during treatment due to his weak immune system. But Camp Quality made it possible for him to not only have fun but also meet amazing volunteers, and so many friends. He looks forward to camp every year and it is life changing. The volunteers pour so much love into the kids. They also have other events through the year for the whole family. They are a very loving, caring and dedicated group of volunteers and we love them!!!!!

Camp Quality Michigan has 2 camps (north camp and south camp) where kids with cancer can enjoy life, have fun and make lifelong friendships. During the week long camp where they are paired with a companion they swim, dance, play archery, sing at camp fires, and so all kids of things without having to think about chemo, radiation and everything else that comes with it. Their parents know they are safe and well cared for. Being a companion changes your life, to see how the kids care for each other and the strength they have. CQ is one big family.

Camp Quality Delivers! Children with cancer find comfort and support among peers who understand their feelings, fears, and frustrations.
Staff are there often because they too have experienced some of the same concerns personally through their own, or friends or family situations.
I have heard teens discuss their therapies and illnesses among themselves-which they never could do freely elsewhere.
There is no self pity-just determination!

It is fun and a good time to spend time with other people just like you and make new friends too. flapjack_1984@yahoo.com.

I was a companion at Camp Quality in 2008, and it changed my life forever. I was unable to attend this year due to school, but I plan on going next year again, and many more years to come. The people I met there have changed my life, and the memories will last forever. I cant wait to be a part of camp again in 2010!!

I had a great week volunteering as a companion at Camp Quality. The week flew by and I would do it again in a heartbeat. Taking work off for the week wasn't the easiest, but it was worth it.

My daughter attended this camp that she found herself and we enrolled her at the last minute, the staff was extremely helpful with our requests and helped us get her there. I will be boasting about this camp for years!!!

A great organization! My son looks forward to camp every year not to mention all the other events they do throughout the year. We love Camp Quality!

My son was diagnosed with Leukemia about 2 ½ years ago. That was a great shock and stress on him and on our whole family. Shortly thereafter we heard about a camp that Camp Quality provided for cancer patients. We signed our son and one of his sisters up to go. They had a blast. They made new friends, had a lot of fun, learned ne things, and most of all, in interacting with other cancer patients, were able to gain strength and hope concerning dealing with this new monster in their lives. The staff and volunteers have been wonderful. Camp Quality has also provided opportunities for our family to participate with our children in some quality events. Camp Quality does a quality job.

My daughter has attended Camp Quality Michigan for two years. She absolutely LOVES the experience and has grown so much each time she attends for just one week. She has made long lasting friendships with her companion, a volunteer. She also has made a lifelong buddy with her roommate and her roommate's companion. The opportunities that the kids at Camp Quality Michigan allow them to be kids first and foremost regardless of what cancer they had/have or where they are in treatment. It's a way to connect and be a carefree kid having fun for one week each year.

As a native Michiganian, I applaud this organization for their work. Camping is great fun in our beautiful state, and I'm happy to help fund this experience for children (and their families) who are struggling with or have survived this terrible disease.

I got involved with this organization by simply answering a newspaper ad. I always loved going away to camp when I was younger, and there was an ad in the paper looking for volunteers to be camp counselors for one week during the summer. I looked the organization up online and found out that I would be a one-on-one companion for a child that has or has had cancer. I thought this would be a fun week for me and a great way to reach out to a child. Little did I know, these children reached out to me. Every child that came to camp changed my life. To see these kids laughing and just "being kids" after everything they have gone through was great. They taught me to fully cherish life and to be thankful for all of the positive things. They taught me that if you concentrate on the hardships in life, you won't really live. I hope I have been able to give these kids a little of what they have given me. Camp Quality is the best organization I have ever been apart of. This camp proves to the kids that they are not alone (many times you will catch kids comparing scars or treatments) and it lets them get away from it all and have a great time. The kids can prove to themselves that they can do anything. One little girl that had cancer in her leg climbed a rock wall. One little girl that went blind from her cancer realized that she could do anything her peers can. What this camp gives to kids is priceless. They gain self-confidence, they don't feel "different" because they don't have hair, and they are all able to use each other and their companions as a support group.

The 5 days at Camp Quality was an experience I will not forget. Make no mistake, it is a challenge to spend 24hrs. a day with a young person and keep them focused on all the activities and their medical requirements. However, seeing them laughing, running, playing jokes on you, and every once in a while opening up about their feelings made it all worthwhile. The courage of these kids is truly something to aspire to. I'm sincerely grateful for the time I spent at Camp Quality.

I am 67 years of age and 2009 was my first volunteer experience at Camp Quality on Walloon Lake, MI. I have known about Camp Quality and have wanted to be with their summer camp for many years, but was not able to participate until this year. I was a "floater" which gave me the ability to get to know every aspect of the camp. I filled in wherever necessary and whenever necessary. I loved doing this. (ie: companion fill in, running errands, cart driver, kitchen, nurses area etc.) I have volunteered with some of their year round activities also. The people are marvelous to work with and I am looking forward to next year.

My daughter has attended Camp Quality for 11 years. She is currently 14 and counts down the days from her last day of camp to the first day next year. It provides her with such a wonderful and unique experience every year. Every time I pick her up she claims that "this was the best year ever". They also provide wonderful family and teen activities throughout the year. She really enjoys the winter ski weekend.

Since my oldest daughter, Emma, had been diagnosed with cancer, we didn't have an opportunity to let her and her sister go and do many things. Camp Quality Michigan was just awesome!!! It is a wonderful camp that allows children of cancer to be with other children who are going through the same thing. This was the first time that my daughters had ever been to camp. They loved it. They talked about it for weeks. How much they loved their companions, the food, the activities. The experience they had there provided them with independence, self confidence, and memories that they will never forget. One week after camp, they were already talking about attending next year's Camp Quality Michigan. THANK YOU CAMP QUALITY MICHIGAN FOR A WONDERFUL SUMMER!!!

I'm a widowed mom whose only child just finished 3 1/2 years of chemotherapy. Camp Quality has been invaluable to both my son & me. Their summer camp for cancer kids not only gives the kids a great experience, but provides respite for parents, knowing that our kids are OK w/proper medical oversight, while we get much-needed time to tend to other pressing matters (including an occassional nap!).

Wow! What an experience to be able to be a worker at " Camp Quality ". I thought that maybe I could be of help in a small way to these kids. However they helped me to be a stronger person just by watching these kids to encourage each other. Some of the activites were very difficult for anyone to complete but watching these kids with cancer reaching the TOP was very rewarding to me and probably would surprise the Doctors and Parents of the cancer. I will be back next year to offer any help that is needed. Grandpa Ted

Camp Quality made a BIG difference in my child's life. She has made a lifelong friend in her companion and has met so many other wonderful people through her experiences. She looks forward to going to camp each summer.

It took my son 3 years to finally get the nerve to go to camp & leave me. When I got to camp to pick him up, us came up to me & said that he can't believe I didn't make him go all those other years :o) He also said he can't wait to go again next year & become a companion when he is 18. He absolutely had the time of his life. Almost three months later he is still talking about the friendships and fun he had. Camp Quality is an amazing camp for kids with or surviving cancer. It lets them all feel like kids and they all have something in common. Thank you again Camp Quality for all his memories!!!!

I have been the camp nurse for the last 3 years and the experience has been AMAZING! It is one of the most rewarding things I have done in my life. There are no words to describe the satisfaction you receive knowing that you have made even a small impact in someones life. The kids have given me more than I could ever give them. YOU SHOULD TRY IT TOO!!

My family has been continually touched by Camp quality. We were first told about this camp after my daughters second relapse with ALL Luekemia.I was a little apprehensive letting her stay away from home that very first time-But her experience was so uplifting and it helped her independency so much, that all the camp activities became our family staple that we planned our year around.I also thought it exceptional that siblings were included, family's suffer so much through the years of difficult treatment, mine so much that we experienced a divorce.This made Camp Quality even more theaputic for my children.Its wonderful to get with other families to share our experiences and mutual concerns.Camp Quality is truely filled with a fantasic, loving "family" that touches the lives of so very many.... thanks so very Much to All!!! Sienna Miller's Family

Camp Quality was an amazing, rewarding experience that I will never forget and plan to volunteer again in the future. It was not only extremely well organized but the leaders were very helpful in making sure everything went smooth.

My experience was amazing. I loved being there and seeing the kids with their smiling faces looking back at me :)

I started volunteering with Camp Quality Michigan in 2007 as a companion at South Camp. I immediately fell in love with the campers, families and staff. Last fall, I took on the position of Camper Recruitment Coordinator for the 2009 camp. I was able to connect with potential campers and their families, while spreading the word about CQ and all it has to offer (free of charge, of course!) Camp Quality is the perfect place for children with cancer to feel like a "normal child" again. They are surrounded by individuals who understand what a child with cancer goes through. Children can attend camp without the fear of being judged, asked personal questions, or stared at, because almost every camper there knows what it is like to experience side effects from treatment. CQ has provided me with memories that will last forever, and I know that wherever I am in my life or career, I will always spend a week of my summer at CQ.

I started volunteering for this organization in 2006- I have not been able to leave yet! My camper and I have become good friends and we talk anywhere from once a week to once a month. Camp Quality allows just what they advertise:kids to be kids again. My camper has made so many strong, lifelong connections to close friends- it is amazing.

CAMP QUALITY IS TRULY AMAZING! This past summer was my first summer involved with Camp Quality, and now I cannot see my summers without it. The people involved with this camp are exceptional. Giving up their time to spend with children in need. Not only are the adults and companions great, but SO ARE THE KIDS! I have never been to a camp when the kids weren't so quick to judge and things weren't all about competition. At most camps, when organized games are played it is all about winning, and being the best. Here it is about trying something new, giving your all, having fun, and supporting each other. The kids here are experiencing something I never did as a teen, SUPPORT FROM MY PEERS! I have also never played a 20 inning baseball game, with 15 kids in the outfield, no score, everyone and anyone rooting you on. My camper has taught me so much about love, life and enjoying it to the fullest. I only hope I have taught my camper as much as she has helped me! I LOVE CAMP QUALITY!

Camp Quality was a wonderful experience that made a difference in the lives of both campers and volunteers. The personal feeling the staff and volunteers are taught to give the campers is like no other volunteer experience I have ever participated in. While the experience was deeply emotional, it was rewarding knowing that I was part of allowing children to be children again.

I was a first time volunteer this summer for Camp Quality and I had so much fun. Everyone was there for the kids and the experience was amazing. The campers have gone through so much at such a young age and truly are miracles. Being able to help provide a week free of cancer for them was an honor. Everyone was so nice and I was able to meet many people. Everyone comes from all over and has different backgrounds but comes together and makes this week possible. I plan to come back again in the future and have recommended it to many others.

Camp Quality was the absolute best week of my summer. It was great to be able to work in the environment that Camp provides for the kids. Everyone says that once you become a part of the CQ family, you can't stop and it's so true!

I first went to Camp Quality when I was 16 in 2008. I had been diagnosed with a rare form of cancer in my salivary gland called adenocystic carcinoma when I was 15 in May of 2007. I was in treatment the entire summer, but the following summer was awesome, going to Camp Quality and meeting so many people that I could actually relate to. Going through cancer in the middle of my high school career was very difficult, but I remained friends with many of the people I had been to camp with. Talking to them really helped pull me around and to realize that I wasn't alone. The people who worked so hard to make those 2 weeks possible are truly my heroes and my angels. That one week of freedom from cancer and doctors and hospitals and tests and treatments was truly a God-send. Cancer changed my life forever, in both good and bad ways. Cancer was not good, and I wouldn't wish it on anyone. But my response to cancer has transformed my life, and Camp Quality was a very important part of that.

My first experience with Camp Quality Michigan was as a camper at the age of 8. I had lymphoblastic lymphoma when I was 4, and then after I had gone into remission we heard about this camp for kids who have or have had cancer, and I decided to go. I loved it from my first summer there, and began to look forward to it as the highlight of my summer every year. I continued to return as a camper for 9 more years, until the summer after I was a senior in high school. I took the required one year off, and came back as a companion after my sophomore year of college, and it was one of the best experiences of my life. I have had the same camper for 4 years now (and we plan to hit 5, and then keep going), and it is an amazing experience to get to watch her grow. Camp is one of the few places where I really felt like I fit in, while I was growing up. Although I was young when I had cancer, it still followed me. Everyone got worried about me when they heard that I had it, but there I could go and just be myself. We talked about cancer related things, and it wasn't strange - after all, we had all been through it. I got to experience things I never would have, otherwise. I got to ride an elephant, go up in a hot air balloon, go horse back riding, as well as just be in an environment where I was loved and respected. I'm still good friends with both campers and companions from when I was a camper, and love talking to all the interesting people that I've met. Camp Quality is one of the most wonderful experiences that I have ever had. I'm currently living in Alaska, but still plan to come back to camp - that's how important it is, to me and to all the people that we reach out and are able to help.

This was my first involvement with Camp Quality this last summer. I heard about it through a classmate and decided to volunteer as a companion. I never thought it would have such an effect on me. The kids, the staff and everyone involved, all make this week amazing. I will definitely be back next year and have recruited a friend to help and experience this astonishing organization. My camper and I have been keeping in touch on facebook, but I cannot wait till Oct. 11th for the re-union to see everyone.

Being a volunteer for Camp Quality has been a huge part of my life for the past 3 years. The smiles, hugs, cheers are abundant all week long! All the support and love don’t end with camp. There’s also tons of other activities all FREE to the kids and their families. I LOVE CAMP QUALITY and what it stands for. The kids are my heroes. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your family.

Camp Quality is an amazing program! My daughter is in remission from Leukemia and has been attending camp at Camp Quality for 6 years now and loves it! I have never met more dedicated individuals as the staff and companions with Camp Quality, their events throughout the year that include the family and allow the siblings to have a fun time is a terrific idea. The individual pairing of each child with a companion is a great idea and my daughter loves to communicate with her companion throughout the year. They now have 2 camps in Michigan which allows more children to attend camp but does make it harder to get space in the family outings. I would highly recommend any parent of a child with cancer to send your child to Camp Quality and rest assured that they are well taken care of and in good hands!

This is without a doubt the most heartwarming event I have ever be involved with.The aspect of what is being done is astounding. These kids are the most courageous people around and its my priviledge to help in the little way I can..God Bless all the kids!!! Dan Chemotti

It took 3 years before we finally had the courage to send off our little guy to camp. What a big mistake...he missed out on 3 years of fun, friendships, and unforgettable memories! He left for camp uneasy, uncertain and came back refreshed, excited and full of wonderful stories! He's going back next year without a doubt! Thank you Camp Quality for making such a difference in our lives!

I have worked with Camp Quality South for 2 years now, and I have loved each year for its own special reasons. They have it so organized, and well staffed it makes the week a breeze for the campers and companions! It is an awesome experience, and a very very rewarding one also!

“CAMP QUALITY “ ROCKS !!! WHEN MY SON JARRETT BECAME ILL HEARD ABOUT CAMP QUALITY BY ANOTHER CAMP FAMILY ABOUT HOW WONDERFULL THIS CAMP WAS FOR CHILDREN AND THEIR FAMILY. OUR FAMILY CAN’T SAY ENOUGH GREAT THINGS ABOUT CAMP QUALITY, THEY WILL BE OUR EXTENDED FAMILY FOREVER. MY YOUNG TWIN BOYS BOTH WERE ABLE TO GO TO CAMP THIS SUMMER FOR THE FIRST TIME , WHICH I WAS WORRIED ABOUT THEM BEING TOO YOUNG , HOME SICK SHY , ECT…. BUT LET ME TELL YOU AS SOON AS WE ARRIVED AT CAMP THEY WERE READY FOR THE WEEK AND DIDN’T EVEN CARE MOM AND DAD WERE NOT THERE. THEY MET SO MANY FRIENDS AND HAD SUCH A GREAT TIME THEY ARE STILL TALKING ABOUT IT MONTHS LATER. I ALSO WANT TO MENTION THE LOVE AND CARE EACH PERSON THAT HELPS OUT IS AWESOME. CAMP QUALITY ALSO HAS FAMILY GATHERINGS WHICH ARE GREAT. THERE ARE A LOT OF ORGANIZATIONS OUT THERE FOR CHILDREN BUT I DON’T KNOW OF ANY THAT IS FOR THE FAMILY . CAMP QUALITY IS A BIG FAMILY. WE ARE SO GLAD WE FOUND CAMP QUALITY AND IT’S FAMILY. BOTH MY BOYS HAVE ALREADY SAID WHEN THEY ARE BIG ENOUGH THEY ALSO WANT TO HELP AT CAMP QUALITY. BETH, DAVID, JARRETT & JORGAN NORWICK MUSKEGON, MICHIGAN

Camp Quality is an incredible experience for kids with cancer. It provides a positive, outdoor experience full of action, and joy. Most of the kids and even some of the staff have cancer so they understand what it is like to need a place to escape the stares, questions, worry and hospital smells. A place full of sunshine, the smell of pine, the sound of waves lapping the shore and the constant spilling over of laughter. A place where it's ok to enjoy every moment of a day. A place to stare down cancer, because you can see someone who successfully has at every turn. Camp Quality is a journey that while you're packing your bag to go...you already know it will be wonderful!

I am writing on behalf of my 8-year old daughter. When we first picked her up from camp, her enthusiasm of everything she did that week made me speechless. This program and all of the volunteers had made a special week for my daughter that she still talks about today. The pictures that were taken that week was so awsome to look at and should how much fun she had. I marveled at the amount of different opportunities she was given. How many camps can offer a child to go horseback riding, fishing, swimming, crafts, dancing, archery, ride up in a hot air balloon, zip line, and playing in inflatables. All in the same week! Hats off the the camp coordinators and volunteers on giving my daughter a week to remember! As for myself, I did wonder every day what she was doing (what parent would not). Although, I did not benefit from the emails because I was not at home and did not have internet where I was, I knew she would be in capable hands just from my first visit. This gave me a week to relax without worrying whether I remembered to give my daughter her medicine.

My first year at Camp Quality was 2002. Since that time I have not missed a year and continue to take one weeks vacation from my job as a bookkeeper/tax collector just to attend. For the last 6 years I have been in charge of the kitchen. I organize the groups that provide meals and order all the food to feed approximately 200 people 3 meals a day for a week. I like to tell people it is the second best thing I've done in my life-my daughter Jamie being the first. Several years ago I attended a meeting of a local Kiwanis Club. I told the members that working with Camp Quality was like being in a huge group hug. You feel surrounded by all the love and caring from the wonderful people who give their time to the kids of Camp Quality. Whatever I give to Camp Quality is nothing compared to what I receive being a part of this wonderful organization. I plan to keep attending for as long as I am physically able and I'll continue to encourage all my friends to share in this wonderful experience.

I am 8 years old with cancer! This was my first ever camp experience.... I was scared BUT my mom was a nervous wreck!!! She was afraid that I should NOT go anywhere while I was sick. Then she realized that this was a SPECIAL CAMP where all the kids had cancer and the staff was comprised of SPECIAL, LOVING, CARING and TRAINED adults who all knew about cancer. Camp was awesome! We had flag raising ceremonies, free gifts and stuffed animals,t-shirts, great food, fishing, horse back riding, baseball with the Detroit Tiger players, ziplines, Remax hot air ballon rides, special theme events, camp fire singing and s'mores, canoeing, swimming, craft sessions, a bungee race AND MUCH MORE.... I made many new friends and realized that a Camp Quality week allowed me to forget that I had cancer! Who cares about an illness when all you can think of is.... FUN, FUN, FUN!!! Go Camp Quality!!! OK, now I am home again, back to reality. But wait... .... I can deal with the reality of life with cancer because I get to go to Camp Quality again in just 310 days from today!!!! Thank you to the entire staff at Camp Quality. Love, Devin Statetzny

This was our daughter's second year at Camp Quality. It is by far the best thing that has happened for her. She was diagnosed with melanoma a year and a half ago and has successfully completed treatment. At camp she is just one of the kids and not a "special case" as she sometimes feels at school. The companions are extraordinary and the camp is run so every kid can do as much as they possibly can. We also do several special outings organized by the camp throughout the year. I wish I could offer some "constructive criticism", but quite honestly it is the best run organization I have ever been involved with.

Camp Quality is such a wonderful experience for children. The volunteers and community are so giving to this 1 week of enjoyment for the children. The friendships that develop among the campers is so important. Most of the children look forward to this experience all year long. I have been pleased to be a part of this organization for 6 yrs.

I was a first time counselor at the North Camp and found it to be extremely rewarding. The staff was very organized and truly put all of their energy into allowing the campers to have the best possible week. We had 71 campers and activities galore. It was amazing to see so many people come together for one common goal. The kids were the focus and everything else took a back seat. What a tremendous organization!!

I was asked 8 years ago if I would be on standby as a "Health Officer" for Camp Quality. I knew little of the organization, but was retired and summered in MI. I was disappointed I wasn't needed that year-but have been on staff ever since. I have been rewarded time and again by the courage the kids show in the face of uncertainty, and the compassion of an all volunteer staff. The camp offers respite and support to families of kids with cancer. In many cases, kids who have beaten cancer come back as staff, and share their stories with the kids. A lot of hope, a lot of laughs-a "Quality" adventure.

My daughter went to Camp Quality for the first time this summer. She loved it!!!!!!!!! She wanted to go back a week later. Gracie is 8 years old and was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia at age 4. She was in remission a week after diagnosis and underwent chemo for 2 1/2 years. Recently, she's had 2 benign tumors removed from her leg and this camp provided a huge outlet for her while assuring us as parents, that she'll be cared for and all of her needs will be met. As parents, we were very at ease knowing CQ has doctors and experienced, caring staff. It was fabulous!!! Gracie loved horseback riding, hot air balloon ride, fishing, canoeing you name it, she loved it. The one on one companion/camper ratio is sooo unique and we were very comforted knowing her companion had it together and was just going to have fun with her. Gracie bonded well with Lindsay and still talks about her and can't wait to see her again. Camp Quality is truly SPECIAL! We are very grateful to have such a fabulous outlet on such a beautiful lake!!!

My son has been attending Camp Quality for 4 years, since he was first diagnosed with cancer. Every year exeeds his expectations and ensures fun and friendship. Camp Quality does such a great job of letting the kids just be kids and have fun. At camp he is able to be just a kid with no judgement from anyone. He has formed great friendships and bonds with other campers, companions, and staff. The day camp is over with he starts looking forward to the next year!

This is my second year as a golf cart driver and I have as much fun as the campers. It is a pure joy to watch these campers riding horses, flying down the zip line or just laughing with other kids. I know two little campers who can melt your heart with a look, they like to ride around on a golf cart and I love taking them. The staff and companions are great people with big hearts, I am proud to be a part of this organization.

The Camp Quality "family" is an extraordinary group of individuals. From the campers, our inspiration, to the staff and volunteers, there could not be a more wonderful group of people! Camp is not just a week in the summer; it is a year-long support system. I have served as a companion at camp for five summers and I am continually amazed at the amount of love and support found at camp.

As a first year volunteer at the Michigan North Camp, I enjoyed this experience very much, as it provided a glimpse into many different facets of the camp, as well as an opportunity to get acquianted with many other staff members, volunteers and campers. I felt this was an extremely well run camp and was so impressed with the energy and enthusiasm of the staff and campers alike. There was a tremendous amount of planning and coordinating involved, and I commend the staff for a job well done...from hot air balloon rides to the high ropes couse/climbing wall to playing ball with some former Detroit Tigers players. The experience was fun and rewarding, and I'm already looking forward to next year.

This was the first year that I got involved with Camp Quality. Going into it I wasn't exactly sure what to expect. I was so overwelmed efforts of the staff and volunteer to help to make an incrediable week for the children. There were so many didn't activies going on each day. There was never a dull moment. The children really enjoyed escaping to camp and forgetting about the worries in their lifes I have never seen so many kids as happy in my life. Camp Quality is truely something special!

I became involved with Camp Quality after my grandson was a camper back in 2003 and he was so excited and had such a great experience at the age of 6. The next year I became involved as a companion and also got my best friend to come and we have been coming every since. This was our sixth year at camp this past August. We are both part of the kitchen staff and thoroughly enjoy seeing the kids have such a great time getting together with other campers they have met over the years who keep coming back year after year and meeting new campers. The companions are matched up so well with their camper and they surely have a good time since there is so much for the kids to do at camp. I, myself, enjoy getting together with other companions, campers and staff each year and see how the kids have grown and that they are still part of the Camp Quality family.

My son attends Camp Quality and it truly is an amazing organization. He has made some incredible friends here and they are the most kind hearted people you will ever ecounter. They are so good to the kids and really take their time with them. He will always love going there, and truly appreciates the experiences he has at camp.

My experience at CQ has been AWSOME!! I get to go and have fun and not have to worry about my cancer and limitations. The staff is very friendly and helpful, and my camp companion is the best!!

CQ is for children who are going through cancer treatment, children who are cancer survivors and siblings. These children lose their childhood. Their wks, months and years are at best filled with endless pokes, medication, separation (from school, siblings and friends) and isolation. A cancer diagnosis has such a tragic effect on the whole family unit. My 7 yr old son who is a leukemia survivor and my 5 yr old son went to CQ for the 1st time this summer. Families who go thru this lose all stability in this world; often times financial as well. This camp is FREE! The kids were a little hesitant to go... as they have both had severe separation issues as my oldest son was hospitalized 237 days in 2006 and the younger one was often left with caregiviers :( Trust me these parents DESPERATELY need a break!!! and that is what they get!! There are trained nurses at the camp; and the most amazing part is EVERY camper gets a 1:1 companion for the entire wk!!! :) they try to match each child's interests with that of their companion (18 & up, trained, & background check) This was one of the most amazing things i've ever been involved with!!! Truly!!! The kids had such a blast and got to forget about everything for just a few days and be kids again!!! They had everything you could imagine there for them! Round the clock activities and crafts... water sports and fun, pony rides, police, fire, helicopters, motorcycles, camp fires & silly songs, talent contest, birdhouse making, rocket making and launching... i really could go on & on & on!! The camp sent updates and pics nightly to tell us how our kids were doing and what they were up to! When we pick the kids up they have all the parents stay to watch a slideshow of the wk and have a picnic. It was absolutely magical to see the life, joy and careless laughter of these children so beaten and maimed by this deadly disease. My precious 5 year old who has been in a shell since his brother was diagnosed 3 years ago had a blue & green mohawk when i came to pick him up!! He was grinning from ear to ear!! He had found joy! and confidence and happiness!!! i was soo proud that he had conquered his fear of separation from his parents and thrived in this loving environment! Words cannot be used to explain the love and gratitude in my heart for the people who put this together; "Letting Kids With Cancer Be Kids Again!" is their motto, and i believe they are achieving this goal 110%!!! Even in writing this i get teared up thinking about the kids... some have only wks or months left... others may go on to live a fairly healthy life. But this is a bright light of HOPE and LOVE in the most dark dungeon you can imagine. CQ also has events yr round (4 i believe) to keep the campers & companions in touch with each other! Last year we went to a snow wknd they had and the boys loved going down the hill on the sled. This fall they have a water wknd in a hotel water park. The boys are beyond thrilled!!! And the best part is it is FREE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! the kids have literally lost a couple yrs of their lives with this monster called cancer... and these little outtings truly bring joy and peace into a family that has just not been able to experience these things in a long time. GOD BLESS CAMP QUALITY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! and everyone who is a part of this organization!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! There are kids that were put on a waiting list to go to camp this year that were denied :( For all of the heartbreak and pain these kids go through my hope and prayer is that the funding is there to allow each child the opportunity to just be a kid again... if only for 1 wk a year!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I have been involved with Camp Quality since 2007 when my daughter (Stacy Brooks) asked me to help. I have been a companion to a six year old and last year I became part of the staff working with arts and crafts and overseeing activities in the main lodge. This has been the most fulfilling experience of my life. Cancer has touched our family in a very personal way and because of this we all felt like we needed to give something back for all the help, love and support that was given to us at a very hard time. What better way is there then to give children a chance to just be kids again when they are fighting everyday for their life. What better way then to give parents a break and to know that their kids are having fun and just being kids for a week. Camp Quality is a Great Big Slice of Sunshine in their uncertain and scary world.

I absolutely love Camp Quality. When I signed up to be a companion I was nervous that I wouldn't be strong enough to be help a child with cancer. But being around those incredible children for a week was the most inspiring thing I could have ever done. They teach you strength and compassion and you just have the most amazing time! CQ is awesome because it's all free for the campers and their companions! And because it provides a comfortable and safe environment for children who deserve a fun week of being a kid! I honestly can't wait to return as a 3rd year companion next summer!

When asked to help at Camp Quality, a camp for kids with cancer, I was a little nervous. The thought of a child with cancer is enough to make me cry! I decided that I could be strong and I would help and I am so glad I did. The unbelievable number of incredible people who volunteer during the week is awesome!! The camp is a week for the children to forget that they have cancer and to have a ton of fun, AND THEY DO!! I was overwhelmed by the number of volunteers who spend the entire week with a camper, cook, clean, take photos, bring a hot air balloon, provide free concessions, do crafts, take kids fishing, horseback riding, help build rockets, take kids canoeing, swimming, climbing, scrapbooking. The last thing on their minds is cancer! What an awesome organization! To see a child who has been through so much (surgery, months of chemotherapy and radiation), smile a genuine fun filled smile, is incredible!! Instead of sadness and illness, this camp is filled with fun, laughter, and excitement!!

Camp was fantastic. This was my 2nd year as a Companion at Camp Quality and it is one of the best experiences in my life. I look forward to it every year now. The kids seem to have a blast too. There are so many activities to do, it's almost hard to do them all! This is one of the finest organizations out there.

Camp Quality is an amazing organization that allows lids with cancer to be kids again, even if for only that one week at camp. My parents were the first in my family to be involved. They just finished their 12th year. My mom runs a craft cabin, my dad drives a golf cart to transport campers to and from activities, and I lifeguard and help to run the waterfront activities. This year my son also volunteered as a lifeguard. Three generations of giving to a cause we truly believe in. We wouldn't do anything else with our time that week. Our family is also involved in the Boyne Thunder fundraiser for CQ. Anything we can do for CQ...because paraphrasing another volunteer.."it is not the quantity of time on earth, but the QUALITY of time"...Camp Quality Rocks!

This is the second year that I have volunteered at Camp Quality Michigan. I am proud to be paired with my new friend Justin. I continue to see him and his family.I feel fortunate that I am able to provide him with a great camp experience at no cost to his family.As a cancer survivor the doctors were able to heal my body but these children have mended my heart. I am honored to be a small part of Camp Quality Michigan. My favorite memory from camp this year was dancing with a little girl, who is visually impaired due to cancer, to a country song.We were not singing in tune or dancing to the beat but we were having the time of our lives. Could life get any better?

I was a companion for a camper at Camp Quality. It was one of the greatest experiences of my life. Camp Quality sets up the companion-camper relationship in a way that is comfortable to both parties. The training does a decent job of preparing the companions for what to expect and how to react to certain situations. At the camp, the administration does an excellent job in scheduling the events and making them fun for everyone. My camper and I had a lot of fun on the water activities, the zip line, and at the events thrown by the Camp Copneconic staff. Camp Quality does a great thing bringing a smile to everyone who is involved, especially the campers. It was a privilege to be a part of that.

I became involved with Camp Quality 4 years ago. At the time, my father beat Stage 3 Colon Cancer and I needed to give back to the "cancer community" and help everyone that that i possibly could. I know how cancer affected my father and how people were scared of him and I needed to change that outlook. I joined CQ, I liked their motto, "letting kids with cancer be kids again". The first summer at camp, I was paired up with a little girl that changed my life remarkable. We met so many people, where everyone looked the same, had the same scars and evryone was smiling. We did everything possible at camp, from ziplines, to horseback riding and arts and crafts. She is my "buddy'. now, 4 years later, I want every child that comes to camp, to leave feeling "like a kid again". I can't explain to you how Camp Quality has touched so many people. It is a wonderful organization. We are a huge family, where we all keep in touch. Unfortunately, we do have some sad times, and thats when all CQ members come together and support one another. With our friendship, our stories of camp we get through it. I am so proud of Camp Quality. And i thank them all the time for choosing me to make a difference in a childs life.

Terrific experience. Great organization! Loved being a part of it as a companion! Life changing experience. What a difference this organization makes in children's lives.

My week at Camp Quality was one of the best weeks of my life. I volunteered as a companian this past summer. We were to "work" one-on-one with a camper. A camper was a 4 to 18 year old child who has, or is, battling cancer. We were trained for a day, but I really did not know what to expect. The entire week was such a warm fuzzy for everyone!!! Camp was so well organized. The word bored was never uttered or thought. There were so many activities, team building skills, and opportunities throughout each day. I truly felt like my own personal family had just grown by 150 people. The children have so much fun, and the memories that are made are extremely valuable. I have shared my experience with so many already, because it meant so much to me. I honestly cannot think of one aspect that I would change or improve upon. This was my first year at Camp Quality, but it will definitely not be my last. Tracey Feil

This was my second year as a companion to a very special little girl named Ragan. We really hit it off last year and I was very excited to spend another week with her this past July. We did a lot of fun activities during the week, but I would dare to say that her favorite might have been making me into a human sundae! We shared a room with Jan and Katie. Early in the week Katie and Ragan made up a password which Jan and I had to remember to re-enter our room. I hope that we will be able to meet again next summer.

Camp Quality Michigan stands up to it's motto and truly allows children affected by cancer stand together with their new friends and forget about cancer all together. Over the span of seven fun-packed days in beautiful Petoskey, MI we become a family and are all connected to someone new in a new and exciting way.

My name is Aaron Milenbaugh and I'm not joking about my rateing. Camp Quality Michigan is like my home away from home. At Camp I did things that I couldn't even think about at my home. At Camp we do alot of fun activites and make friends, we are in the water alot which I like and we dance and everything. I love it there. I hope someone reads this so they can recommend Camp Quality to any kid that has or had cancer so they can come here and find out for themselves. Thank you for reading.

Attending Camp Quality each year is a highlight of my summer. I truly enjoy spending time with my camper and engaging in differnt summer camp activities with him. I treasure that relationship that has continues to build each summer with him.

Camp Quality Michigan is a TERRIFIC organization! Each year we have wonderful volunteers (companions and staff members) that come together to deliver a wonderful program to our campers--each of which has, or has had, cancer. What makes CQ unique is the bond that is formed between camper and companion. Each camper is paired on-to-one with a companion that spends the entire week with them. Add in the spectacular programming that is provided and it all adds up to FUN!!!!! I HIGHLY recommend this organization..not only in Michigan but across the US!