Last summer, at our opening year of SomEx, I met an 8-year old girl, named Daisy, who was there because her brother died when she was 3 years old. Daisy has freckles and a big smile and attacks you with her hugs. This summer, Daisy was in the Crimson Stags bunk with the most vivacious, energetic and warm group of 9-year-old girls. They called themselves the Stag-ettes. At one point, they invited me over for a sleepover in their bunk, although I'm pretty sure it was a ruse to get Gus (my dog) there instead. This is a group of girls that my own daughter, Dylan, would easily call her friends. 

I definitely don't play favorites and love all of my 737 campers the same, whether I've met them personally or not. But I've chosen to fundraise for the Stag-ettes this year because, to me, they represent the best of what Experience Camps is all about. It's the laughter and the hugs and the warmth and the instant connection to each other and anyone fortunate enough to step into their orbit. These girls are full of love and life, and while they may struggle and experience times of sadness, as all grieving children do, they have each other to bring it back to a place of light and joy. I want every child to have that experience.

Last summer, we had a waitlist of 150 campers across the country. I never want to tell a camper they can't come to camp. We are committed to growth and need your help to make that happen. Thanks so much for believing in what we do and helping us get where we're going. xo