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Congratulations Allen!
Co-Founder of the Camp Rainbow Foundation
Allen exemplifies the values of COCA-I every day of his life. As an active member, board member and then Chairman of the Dream Factory, he continued his visits to the hospital, as well as, went to see children off at the airport, visit them at their homes and help grant their wishes under the auspicious of the Dream Factory.
Allen saw the need to respond to the wishes of many of these children who were unable to attend ‘regular’ camp, like their friends, due to the limitations imposed upon them by their illness or treatment. He listened to the children’s stories, hopes and dreams. He acted on their wishes to be able to go to camp during the summer and he developed his dream to create camping experiences for children with cancer and blood related diseases and disorders.
In 1987, Allen was inspired to create the Camp Rainbow Foundation The Camp Rainbow Foundation began in 1988, and was established as a local organization that was composed totally of volunteers. Our mission provides free camping experiences to children undergoing treatment for, and survivors of, cancer and blood-related diseases and disorders. We provide a recreational and nurturing environment for campers and their families, where the children can create positive memories, build self-esteem, make new friends and are relieved of the everyday stresses caused by their illness. Today, the Foundation has grown to include 5 different camps.
In 1990, Teen Camp, a weekend camping experience for high school teens 14 to 18 years old was started. Special themes for the weekend help build leadership and communication skills, relationships and self-esteem. Teens are involved in activities such as bowling, ropes course, social action projects, games, arts & crafts and more.
In 1997, Day Camp began, a one-week day camp for 4 to 6 years olds which is held the same week as overnight camp from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Campers participate in age-appropriate activities and integrate into some of the overnight camp activities during the day and follow the same overnight camp themes. Day camp has now provided a way for our younger campers to see and experience camp and be ready to move up to sleepover camp.
In 2008, Camp In, a two-day program that brings many of the typical camp activities to the patients on the Oncology floor of the respective hospitals began.
In 2009, at the request of the hospitals, the program was expanded to include the Oncology clinic patients. The program includes arts and crafts projects, a magician/clown, games and other fun activities.
In 2014, Family Camp Rainbow began as a joint effort with the Program Directors who previously ran the American Cancer Society Family Camp program. Family Camp provides the whole family with the opportunity to bond and share feelings, but most importantly to let loose and have fun. Families can participate in a variety of activities which include exploring the outdoors, arts and crafts, horseback riding, archery, boating, carnivals, and much more.
Allen has been recognized and honored for his leadership in the community and his commitment to make a difference in our world by The Harvard Club of St. Louis, The St. Louis Rams Georgia Frontiere Community Quarterback Award, and University City High School Hall of Fame, to name a few.
Today, Allen continues to serve on the following COCA-I committees:
Allen has affected many lives personally and professionally. More importantly, he has affected the lives of children with cancer and their families. He has given his all to COCA-I in hoping to transform the lives of sick children and those who care for them. Every time he tells the story of Camp Rainbow through the campers and their family’s trials and triumphs, he lives the spirit of COCA-I. Every time he exemplifies the importance of volunteering, he lives the spirit of COCA-I.
And every time he says, “it’s all about the kids”, he is the spirit of COCA-I. |
