Looking Back with Gratitude: Another Incredible Year at Camp Good Days

As the year begins to wind down and the holiday season approaches, I find myself doing what many of us do at this time of year — taking a step back and reflecting. It’s an opportunity to look back on the months behind us, to appreciate time spent with family and friends, and to recognize the many blessings that shape our lives throughout the year. When I look back on 2025, I’m thankful to say it has been another good year for Camp Good Days.

This past week, we gathered for what would be our final Board meeting of the year. It felt fitting that this meeting was a little different. For several months, graduate students from RIT have been working closely with us as part of their capstone project, taking a thoughtful and honest look at Camp Good Days — who we are, how we’re perceived, and where we’re headed. Hearing their findings was both encouraging and meaningful. It’s not often you get to see your work through fresh eyes, and it was reassuring to hear how well-regarded Camp Good Days is within our community and how clearly our mission comes through. Just as important, their work gave us ideas, direction, and goals as we begin planning for the year ahead.

If there’s one thing that stood out to me during that meeting, it’s how fortunate we are to have the team we do. The greatest blessing of Camp Good Days has always been its people. Our staff members are individuals who could work many other places, yet they choose to be here — committed to our mission and to the children and families we serve. That level of passion can’t be taught. It’s what allows us to grow, adapt, and continue meeting the challenges faced by families dealing with cancer. Whether it’s our leadership, our team at our beautiful camp on Keuka Lake, those helping to strengthen our development efforts, or newer faces bringing fresh energy and ideas, this is why Camp Good Days continues to succeed.

There’s one person I want to speak about personally – my wife Wendy. When she made the decision to come to Camp Good Days, it wasn’t a small step. She left behind a career in education — teaching physical education, coaching varsity girls softball, and junior varsity basketball — work she loved and excelled at. What many people don’t see is how much experience, discipline, and leadership she brought with her. She didn’t walk into her role here; she earned it. She learned every detail, every process, and every moving part of this organization from the inside out. She wouldn’t be in the position she’s in today if she weren’t fully qualified, and no one understands Camp Good Days and its day-to-day operations better than she does. I am blessed to have her as my wife, but I truly believe Camp Good Days is better because she chose to step into this role and help lead us forward.

However, none of what we do at Camp Good Days would be possible without the incredible support of our community. We are fortunate to be surrounded by people who believe in this mission — our donors, volunteers, partners, and friends who show up year after year with generosity, encouragement, and trust. Whether it’s giving their time, making a donation, attending an event, or simply spreading the word about what we do, their support is the foundation that allows Camp Good Days to exist and grow. It’s something I never take for granted, and I’m deeply thankful for a community that continues to stand with us and make it possible for us to be there for children and families when they need us most.

As we look ahead, summer will be here before we know it. Our schedule will be filling quickly, and with it come opportunities to get involved. If you’re thinking about ways to do something meaningful, I encourage you to consider volunteering at camp or applying for one of our summer staff positions. The impact you make — and the memories you carry with you — last far beyond the season itself.

As the year comes to a close, I’m thankful for everyone who stands behind Camp Good Days and believes in the work we do. Their continued support allows us to keep moving forward and remain focused on what matters most — being there for the children and families we serve. This special time of year signifies goodwill to men and peace on earth, and I want to close by wishing all who read this and believe in Camp Good Days a very Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and a New Year filled with peace, good health, and much much love.