Program Director Martha Handrich
How did you get involved with Camp One Step?
I got involved in Camp One Step through our daughter’s Nurse Practitioner at Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin. She introduced us to camp and thought it would be a great fit for our family.
How long have you been involved with our organization?
We became involved with Camp One Step when we attended Family Camp in 2018. Our kids were not old enough to participate in any of the other camps. And even though our family’s journey with childhood cancer started in 2015, cancer treatments and our Make A Wish trip didn’t allow us to participate prior to 2018.
What volunteer roles have you held?
I started volunteering as Assistant Program Director for Family Camp in 2020. I hope to run the Chicago Marathon as part of Team One Step in the near future. I think it usually happens on the same weekend, so we will have to figure that out because I won’t miss Family Camp!
What keeps you coming back to Camp One Step?
It is very easy to keep coming back to camp and elevating our experience by volunteering as well. It is a place in which we have made connections with families in a productive way, sharing a part of our life that many of our other friends cannot comprehend.
What do you love the most about the program you lead?
My favorite part about Family Camp is the age range that we get to impact. At times, it can make it more complex, but to see families share this precious time together is amazing. I wouldn’t trade it.
What are some words of wisdom or advice that you would give campers?
My advice is to open yourself up as much as possible. At the same time, be true to the part of your journey you are in. So if you can, do it all with your open heart and open mind. Try it! If you are in a space that doesn’t allow it, then share that with another counselor. No judgment. Be who you are and we will meet you on your path.
What are some words of wisdom or advice that you would give new or interested volunteers?
I have been a part of Camp One Step in a variety of ways – being a parent sending my kids off to Camp One Step programs, participating as a family during Family Camp, and now volunteering as Assistant Program Director. Throughout all these experiences, I have celebrated the uniqueness of each volunteer and have appreciated how they approach various situations. Be assured, there is not one right way but instead, all ways work! If you say yes to participating in Camp One Step programs, your heart is already in a great place. Make sure you come with open arms and giving hearts – as a result, you will personally gain so much. Kids know when you are open and ready to receive them as they are, and in turn, they will do the same for you. The love of a child is one of the most precious gifts, and you get to sign up for that!
What are some of your interests outside of camp?
My interests outside of camp include tennis, golf, supporting my kids’ interests in basketball, swimming, skiing, Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts, as well as choir, piano, and orchestra. I love to play cards, board games, and cross-stitch when it is cold outside.
