A Volunteer Shares Her First Camp Experience

Siobhan first heard about Campfire Circle through her role on the Sustainability & Social Impact team at LCBO. Immersing herself in camper and family stories and reading annual reports, Siobhan felt a deep pull toward camp’s mission.

Last summer, Siobhan took the leap and volunteered for a week of kids’ camp in Muskoka. Having never attended camp as a child, she entered the experience with both excitement and uncertainty.

“I was a little intimidated because some volunteers have been doing this for five plus years, but I immediately felt part of the group. I really love the way Campfire Circle prepares you. You feel ready for any scenario, which is amazing because every situation is different and delicate, and the team does a great job mentally preparing you for that.”

Siobhan’s connection to Campfire Circle didn’t end after her week at Muskoka. Inspired by the stories of children who found hope in hospital rooms, she joined Campfire Circle’s volunteer “Camp Toonight” program at SickKids in the fall.

“Summer camp is so much fun, but I love the idea of bringing fun to kids’ bedside or in The Cabin. It’s nice to see parents have a moment to themselves—they go outside to grab a coffee and relax, knowing their kids are having fun and are in a safe space with other kids they can relate to. I wasn’t expecting to see the visual impact immediately, but you just sense this feeling of gratitude and that’s what really stuck with me.”

Siobhan’s journey from learning about Campfire Circle through her workplace to becoming an active volunteer highlights the transformative power of stepping out of one’s comfort zone.

“It sounds cliché, but camp gave me a fresh perspective on life. You get so caught up in things that feel important in the moment, but meeting these kids brings you back to what’s really important.”