Program Director Katie Selander
How did you get involved with Camp One Step?
After my family was impacted by cancer, I wanted to give back to kids who are battling cancer. My older sister told me about camp. After my first camp I was hooked and knew how special this place was.
How long have you been involved with our organization?
I started volunteering with Camp One Step in 2007 as a counselor at Summer Camp in the Standard Program.
What volunteer roles have you held (includes volunteering for a Camp One Step event or TOS)?
Currently, I am serving as one of the Program Leaders for Standard Camp at Summer Camp, the Co-Director for Sibling Camp and the Assistant Director for CONNECTED Program. I have also been a counselor for: Family Camp, Brian Tumor Family Camp, Day Camp, Winter Camp, Washington, D.C., Dude Ranch, and Adventure Camp. I have also ran for Team One Step Chicago Marathon!
What keeps you coming back to Camp One Step?
That’s easy – the campers & the staff! Any camp or program I have been a part of has filled my heart and given me the best memories. It is so amazing to see campers come back year after year. Watching them try new things, develop new friendships. All of them are so incredible in kids with the biggest hearts.
The staff with their creativity helps make these programs and camps so memorable for our campers. Some of my best friends have come from camp! Forever grateful for this place.
What do you love the most about the program you lead?
I am thrilled to be a part of the CONNECTED Leadership Team! Being able to connect with kids from all over the world has been so incredible to witness. I can’t wait to continue to connect with more campers & their families throughout the year! (CONNECTED)
I love that we have a camp for our Siblings. It is so important for them to also have a place where they can connect with other kids who know what they are going through. Watching their friendship grow is so awesome to watch. (Sib)
What are some words of wisdom or advice that you would give campers?
Camp is a beautiful, fun, and magical place. You are surrounded by so many supporting campers and counselors. Camp is a place where you can just be a kid. Don’t be afraid to try new things and its okay to get out of your comfort zone!!
What are some words of wisdom or advice that you would give new or interested volunteers?
Come!!! I promise you won’t regret it! Don’t feel like you have to be a loud goofy person. Everyone has talent and brings something special to come. Be yourself, and enjoy your time with the kids and staff.
What are some of your interests outside of camp?
Outside of camp, I love to travel (especially to Disney World :)), seeing Broadway Shows, and trying out as many Chicago restaurants as I can. I also spend the majority of my free time with my two adorable and sweet nephews!
