Kesem: Community Resources

More than 5 million children in the U.S. have a parent battling cancer. When life is so heavy, it can be hard for kids to embrace carefree, childhood joy— they often smile with more hesitation, laugh softer and grow up faster than their peers. But these special kids also carry a quiet courage that is strong and powerful. And they deserve to feel joy loudly. 

This January, Kesem invites you to recognize Children Facing a Parent’s Cancer Month with Joy Out Loud—a movement to unleash the joy that every kid deserves, connecting these silent warriors impacted by a parent’s cancer with the resources, support, and community that helps them live their joy out loud.

Kesem was founded on a simple idea: no child should ever face a parent’s cancer alone. 

For 25 years at over 100 chapters nationwide, that promise has connected over 90,000 children through campfires and care packages, late-night talks and lifelong friendships. Over time, Kesem has created a legacy of support where campers grow into strong, compassionate adults and volunteers become lifelong advocates for others. 

In big and small ways, the invisible thread of the Kesem community weaves people together long after the last campfire has gone out. It’s a constant: showing up in graduations and grief, in weddings and phone calls, in the people who continue to be there, no matter how much time has passed. When you've been a part of Kesem, no matter where you are or how long it’s been, you're always carrying Kesem with you. 

As we look to the next 25 years, and with cancer rates in young adults on the rise, we’re doubling down on our original promise. Through expanded year-round support, programming beyond camp, and even more meaningful virtual and in-person engagement opportunities, we’re building a community that will one day reach every single one of the 5 million children facing a parent’s cancer. 

This anniversary is a celebration of what Kesem has been and a commitment to what it will be. A promise to carry the thread forward and bring others in, so that every child facing a parent’s cancer receives not just a moment of care, but a lifetime of connection.

This toolkit contains shareable posts and graphics to help you spread the word about our 25th anniversary. Questions? Contact eliza.meng@kesem.org.