From Camper Parent to Lifelong Volunteer

When Traci first arrived at Campfire Circle (then Camp Trillium) with her family in 2012, she didn’t know how much they needed it. Now, more than a decade later, she returns not as a camper parent, but as a volunteer – eager to give back to the community that gave her family comfort during their hardest days.

“When we were the ‘cancer family,’ arriving at camp for the first time was emotional. We were welcomed with cheers and noodle wavers and felt instantly like we belonged,” says Traci.

That first summer, Traci’s son was in treatment, which made it hard for him to fully enjoy camp, but her daughter Christen – then just seven – found the experience to be life-changing. “Siblings often get left out in the chaos of serious illness,” Traci says. “Camp made Christen feel special and seen. It did wonders for her mental health.”

Christen eventually became a staff member at camp, and for two summers, Traci and Christen were both part of the team – sharing couch time at staff meetings and leading the evening campfire with a hilarious “Barbie family” skit together.

“It was so fun,” Traci says. “Christen played Barbie, Eliza was Barbie’s dad, and I was Barbie’s mom. I had no idea what we were doing until the moment we stepped on stage. We just went for it.”

Now in her mid-50s, Traci still makes the drive back to Rainbow Lake to volunteer – often with staff half her age. She encourages others regardless of age or background to consider joining the volunteer team.

“You don’t have to be the loud, bubbly type. There’s a place for everyone at camp,” she says. “Some kids connect more with quieter people, and it’s important they see different kinds of role models.”

Volunteering, for Traci, is both personal and joyful. “You always hear that volunteering helps others – but it also helps me. It feels good to give back. I remember what it was like to arrive at camp, overwhelmed, hoping for a good week. I want to be one of the smiling faces that reassures families they’re in a safe, welcoming place.”

Whether she’s paddling on the lake or helping two exhausted sisters fall asleep holding hands during story time, Traci exudes warmth, empathy, and experience to everything she does.

“If I didn’t go back each year, I’d miss it deeply,” she says. “Campfire Circle is part of my story now. It feels like I’m coming home.”

Thank you, Traci, for sharing your story with us. If you are interested in volunteering, please hit the button below.