Superhero Volunteers Create Extraordinary Camp Experiences at Roundup River Ranch
Roundup River Ranch, a Colorado nonprofit offering free, medically-supported camp programs for children with life-altering diagnoses and their families, creates joyful, hope-filled experiences made possible by the dedication of volunteers.
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Set along the banks of the Colorado River in Gypsum, Colorado, Roundup River Ranch offers life-changing camp experiences for children ages 7–17 who are living with life-altering diagnoses. Each summer, hundreds of campers arrive to participate in traditional camp activities – archery, campfire songs, equestrian, fishing, arts and crafts, and more – in a medically safe environment, at no cost to their families.
As Family Camp season approaches, Roundup River Ranch is calling on Colorado residents to volunteer and be part of something extraordinary. From week-long summer camp sessions to weekend family programs, volunteers play an essential role in creating an inclusive, uplifting environment.
Longtime volunteer Matt reflects on his experience: “All it takes is one week – not even a week. I love seeing how it’s grown over the years, and coming back every year to see how the kids have grown up. Because they’re survivor kids – a lot of survivor kids. You’ll love just spending time with the campers here and letting them just be kids.”
Volunteer roles vary widely and include cabin counselors, day volunteers, kitchen assistants, and residential life assistants. Medical professionals such as nurses, physicians, and pharmacists are also encouraged to contribute their expertise in a unique, non-clinical setting. Volunteer eligibility starts at age 19.
Roundup River Ranch serves campers with over 30 different diagnoses, including cancer, heart conditions, gastrointestinal and liver disorders, and neurological illnesses. The camp is part of the SeriousFun Children’s Network, founded by actor and philanthropist Paul Newman. “Volunteers are the heartbeat of camp,” you will hear many staff members say. “They help create the ordinary moments that become extraordinary memories for campers.”
Upcoming Summer Camp sessions continue through July, with volunteer orientation held the first day of each session. Family Camp weekends are scheduled for several weekends in September and one in October. To learn more about volunteering, visit www.RoundupRiverRanch.org/volunteer.
