SOUTH BEND — Camp Kesem, a national organization that provides a life-long peer support network to help children ages 6 to 16 through and beyond parents’ cancer, is kicking off its 13th season in the Michiana area.

Camp Kesem is organized locally by students from the University of Notre Dame. This summer, Camp Kesem at Notre Dame will host 80 campers Sunday, Aug. 2, through Friday, Aug. 7, at YMCA Camp Storer, Jackson, Mich.

More than 3 million children are impacted by a parent’s cancer. Because they don’t appear sick, these children’s needs are often overlooked and they suffer quietly, leading to academic, social, emotional and developmental problems.

Camp Kesem helps these children through and beyond their parent’s cancer by providing a carefree, fun environment in which they can interact and bond with peers who face similar struggles.

Children who attend Camp Kesem at Notre Dame participate in sports, drama, arts and crafts, scavenger hunts and talent shows. Camp Kesem Notre Dame also hosts a capture-the-flag game, as well as an empowerment ceremony to reflect on camper’s experiences and hardships.

Nightly “Cabin Chats” allow campers to open up to their peers and counselors.

Camp Kesem Notre Dame is organized by dedicated students at Notre Dame who work year-long to plan and fundraise for an impactful week of camp. Student volunteers and counselors experience leadership development and undergo 20 hours of training prior to camp.

Camp Kesem is provided free of charge to all participating families and is supported by private donations and community support.

“What makes Camp Kesem so special are all of the relationships that are formed along the way,” Camp Kesem Notre Dame Co-Director, David Reed, said. “The campers and counselors I have been lucky enough to share Kesem with are my second family, and we are all united in our goal of giving the most amazing kids a week they’ll never forget.”

For more information about the camp and how to register, click here, like Camp Kesem on Facebook or visit them at Facebook.com/CampKesemNotreDame or @CamKesemND on Twitter.