Program Director Brendan Hogan
How did you get involved with Camp One Step?
Camp found me when I needed it! I was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in 1997. I was treated at Children’s Memorial (now Lurie Children’s) in Chicago, so I always knew about camp. For some reason I did not want to go when I was younger, but the opportunity came back to me in 2010. I fell in love with Camp and all of its people then and there!
How long have you been involved with the organization?
I was a camper from 2010 through 2014 and have been volunteering in some capacity since then.
What volunteer roles have you held?
• Summer Camp counselor
• Winter Camp counselor
• Washington D.C. Experience Counselor
• Team One Step – Chicago Marathon 2023 and (knocks on wood) Berlin 2025
What keeps you coming back to Camp One Step?
Camp keeps me hopeful! My life is what it is because of camp, and it keeps filling me up. I hope to help give that same experience to campers and families.
What do you love the most about the program you lead?
DCX is a coming-of-age program. While still having the magic of camp, it also gives our campers and families a chance to see how change occurs and how they can help enact this change. And, selfishly, if gives me a chance to share this City I love so much with Camp!
What are some words of wisdom or advice that you would give campers?
You get what you give, but you’ll often get more when you give more. If you are shy, push yourself to say hi and make a friend. If you are outgoing, reach out to the shy people. You’ll be surprised how much you enjoy the experience when you push your comfort zone.
What are some words of wisdom or advice that you would give new or interested volunteers?
There are a lot of great places to volunteer, but I think how many returning volunteers we have year after year is a testament to how special this place is.
What is your current professional work/role?
I work in Washington DC for the District’s local government. I work in economic development – making DC an exciting place to live, work, and visit!
What are some of your interests outside of camp?
Hiking, attending concerts, visiting family, and cooking for my friends.
