We're excited to launch a permanent collection of stories for our community to share.
On May 3, 2026, 25 kids gathered in Los Angeles for a kids festival where they could play, find joy, and find community. The event was also a first for Kesem.
We have an ambitious goal: serve 50% more children over the next three years. That’s a big jump. To achieve this transformational growth in our impact, our suite of programs is expanding to meet families and kids wherever they are in their cancer journey, by delivering the highest quality programming to support their needs. From overnight camps to day programs, to virtual gatherings, we are offering new ways for every child and family to find their own transformation, in a way that feels right for them.
To achieve this goal, we recognized the need to expand through relevant partners in families’ own communities. We also deeply feel this Kesem truth: that healing comes through connection, and knew it needed to be apparent in our day programs. That's why our Better Days program officially became “Kesem Together.” That early May day of festival-themed joy in Los Angeles was the official launch.
Hosted in partnership with our friends at Cancer Support Community Los Angeles the event featured bubbles, friendship bracelet-making, giant Jenga and Connect Four, and all the arts and crafts. It also reflected the new name and what makes this program so powerful: connection. Kesem Together events happen all year long at care centers and other community spaces, giving kids support while their parents receive cancer care.
“Kesem Together Programs are tailored at each event to ensure we’re supporting families in ways that are meaningful and responsive to their unique needs. At each program, children will find opportunities to connect with peers and further develop some social and emotional skills through fun activities led by our passionate volunteers. These core pillars allow us to build a stronger community through Kesem Together and create lasting impact for the families we serve.”
-Brady “Dobby” Ohrn, Senior Manager, Programs
Kesem Together is not created alone, but in partnership. These events only happen through collaboration between Kesem and all our partners. The new name reflects that spirit of shared ownership, bringing joy and support to families dealing with cancer - together.
This togetherness was on full display in Los Angeles, but isn’t new to the events. At a previous event, Jared and Allen, two parents who have known each other since elementary school were surprised to see each other again! “Jared and I first reconnected when I saw his Facebook post that his wife had passed due to cancer. My wife had breast cancer and had also passed. I was able to introduce Jared to Kesem, but had no idea he’d be at the event in March.” Now, Allen and Jared’s kids have a community in each other and Kesem, through Kesem Together events, and at Camp Kesem together this summer.
“My son really enjoys Kesem… he’s done other camps but loves Kesem the most,” shared Allen.
We can’t wait to host more Kesem Together events with partners throughout the cancer community this summer and beyond. And, we hope even more families find connection and support together too. To find events near you, visit our Program Finder page.
Photos courtesy Kesem student leader @heyimwillbo.
We're excited to launch a permanent collection of stories for our community to share.
