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Magic Ahead

Kesem Strategic Plan | 2026-2028

Kesem is reaching more children than ever, with a vision to grow our impact by 50%. We are committed to ensuring no child faces cancer alone.

Guided by our four strategic pillars, we’re making the magic ahead: reaching more children, building a lasting Kesem alumni network, eliminating barriers to participation, and creating the next generation of leaders.

STRATEGIC PILLAR 1:

Expand Kesem's Impact

Serve more children and families with Kesem's life-changing programs

STRATEGIC PILLAR 2:

Empower Our Volunteers

Inspire and equip our passionate volunteers to make a lasting difference in children's lives

STRATEGIC PILLAR 3:

Welcome New Families

Ensure all families impacted by a parent's cancer can access Kesem's transformative programs

STRATEGIC PILLAR 4:

Rally Resources for Impact

Secure financial resources to expand programs and provide access to all families

The Need for Kesem Is Urgent...

More than five million children in the United States have a parent who is living with or has died from  cancer, and this number is growing. These statistics paint a stark  picture, and they also motivate us to act.

"When my wife got sick, I never realized that I needed an organization like Kesem. I'm grateful the nurse at the hospital suggested Kesem. I can't imagine my kid's childhood without this community."

-Kesem Parent

...And Our Programs Have Clinically Proven Benefits

In a rigorous statistical analysis by experts at Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center at Georgetown University, Kesem was shown to play a critical role in enhancing quality of life by offering peer connection, emotional expression, recreational activities, and a sense of normalcy and empowerment in the face of family illness.

Kesem Programming: More Than Camp

Our suite of programs is expanding to meet families and kids where they are in their journey, while delivering the highest quality experience. From camp, to day programs, to virtual gatherings, our programs offer different ways to find the magic each family needs and is interested in.

"I first heard about Kesem from a friend and colleague. As I've learned more about the incredible mission and seen the enormous impact on families, I've been inspired to increase my support and spread the word about Kesem's life-changing programs."

-Kesem Donor

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