At Roundup River Ranch, the power of camp magic isn’t just for the campers. It touches everyone who steps foot here. For Hope and Shakyra, two Certified Nursing Assistants from Colorado Springs, their first summer as volunteers was nothing short of transformative.
Both work at Children’s Hospital Colorado in Colorado Springs, caring for some of the smallest patients in the NICU. This summer, they traded monitors and medical charts for campfires and cabin dances during session 7.
“In the NICU, we see babies who can’t tell us how they feel,” Hope shared. “Here, I get to see kids who’ve grown up from those same beginnings talking, laughing, and thriving. It’s full circle.”
For Shakyra, who’s finishing nursing school, camp offered a much-needed reminder of joy.
“I got to be girly again, to dance, laugh, and just play. Our campers came out of their shells so quickly, it was beautiful watching them form friendships and confidence.”
Throughout the week, both Hope and Shakyra felt moments that renewed their sense of purpose. From conquering the Challenge Course with the encouragement of a camper to sharing stories late at night in their cabin, they witnessed the joy and spirit that lives at Roundup River Ranch.
“Everything here is made so every child can belong,” Shakyra said. “They’re not defined by their diagnosis, they just get to be kids.”
When asked to sum up their week, Hope described camp in three words: limitless, adventure, and magical. Shakyra added, loving, compassionate, and carefree (for the kids).
As they return to their hospital shifts, both carry that camp magic with them: the incredible power of belonging.
“Camp isn’t goodbye,” Hope smiled. “It’s see you later.”
