OUr Philosophy: Every child deserves a fun camp experience.
We’ve created a camp experience where cancer doesn’t get in the way of Adventure.
with the right safety measures & medical expertise, camp is possible for kids who have been affected by cancer.
On-site medical facilities, accessible cabins and activities adapted to meet needs
A completely virtual option that creates a unique camp experience wherever a child needs to be
“Camp allows kids to be their authentic self while being part of a loving community.”
- Sam, Co-Camp Director
Camp is an opportunity to Find your “True North”
“Norden” is a German and Scandinavian word meaning “north.” To us, heading north represents journey, adventure and connection. North is a set point to turn to when you are feeling lost. At Camp Norden, we hope to help each camper find their “true north,” the truest version of themselves, even amidst the difficulties of cancer.
OUR HISTORY
HOw WE GOT STARTED
When Camp Director Sam Bingea was in high school, his close friend was diagnosed with osteosarcoma. Sam watched as typical high school experiences became harder for his friend. After working at Camp Knutson for four summers, Sam witnessed the powerful impact and joy that camp gave children with identified medical needs. Informed by his experience with his friend in high school, Sam was aware of the need for a camp dedicated to kids with cancer. In partnership with Children’s Cancer Research Fund (CCRF) and Camp Knutson, Sam helped make Camp Norden a reality. Sam and CCRF recognized the need for an option for kids who can't leave home or the hospital, and teamed up with entertainer James Orrigo to create Virtual Camp Norden, a completely virtual experience designed to ensure kids facing cancer are never held back by their diagnosis.
OUR LEADERSHIP
SAM Bingea
In-Person CO-CAMP DIRECTOR
Sam has worked at Camp Knutson for four years, helping kids with identified medical needs have the camp experience they deserve. Informed by the cancer experience of one of his close friends, Sam became determined to help create a camp dedicated to kids with cancer. Sam is passionate about making Camp Norden a place that builds confidence and community and creates lifelong friendships.
Karim SADAK, MD, MPH, MSE.
In-person Camp medical director
Dr. Sadak brings 14 years of experience as a pediatric oncologist to his role at Camp Norden. He understands the importance of peer connection, confidence building and personal growth in a child’s cancer experience. During in-person camp, Dr. Sadak will oversee the medical care and the necessary measures that are being taken to ensure safety for all.
MINDY DYKES
Co-Camp Director
Director, Family Programs CCRF
A parent of a childhood cancer survivor herself, Mindy “gets it.” She understands that camp can be a transformative experience for a child or teen who has spent months or years hearing that something isn’t safe, or that their needs can’t be accommodated. She’s helped design Camp Norden with her son’s experience in mind, and she’s passionate about making camp the best week of the summer for campers.
James Orrigo
virtual camp director
James Orrigo is a musician and entertainer who has been working with Children’s Cancer Research Fund since 2019. His virtual program for kids fighting cancer, Big Dreams Virtual Tour, won Zoom’s Overall Innovation Award in 2020. His ability to create exciting experiences and authentic connections, even in a virtual space, makes him the best possible person to lead a high-quality virtual camp.