Chelsea Dresen

How did you get involved with Camp One Step?

My story is probably a little different than most! I didn’t have a prior connection to Camp One Step or pediatric cancer. After going through some major life changes, I was looking for a meaningful way to spend my time, give back, and connect with other service-minded people. I started searching for volunteer opportunities and came across Camp One Step. I decided to give it a try, started volunteering that summer, and pretty quickly realized I had found something really special.

How long have you been involved with our organization?

I started volunteering with Camp One Step in the summer of 2024 with summer camp, and I never looked back!

What volunteer roles have you held?

I’ve had the privilege to serve in a lot of different roles across Camp One Step. I’ve been a counselor and then program leader for Summer Camp, a counselor and then coordinator for Dude Ranch, a group leader at Winter Camp, a counselor and then program director for DCX, a counselor at Day Camp, Family Camp, and Brain Tumor Family Camp, and a member of the Gala Committee. I’ve loved getting to experience so many different programs and see the Camp One Step community from different perspectives.

What keeps you coming back to Camp One Step?

The people, without a doubt. The campers, families, volunteers, and staff all make Camp One Step what it is. I love knowing that something as simple as a conversation, a smile, a silly joke, or an activity can make a difference in someone’s day. I also love getting to see kids just be kids. And honestly, I’ve experienced a lot of personal growth through volunteering here, too. I came to Camp One Step hoping to make a difference, and I’ve realized along the way that camp has changed me just as much. Getting to be part of that kind of community is something I don’t take for granted!

What do you love the most about the program you lead?

DCX: It’s incredibly special to watch campers and their families develop the courage and confidence to share their stories on Capitol Hill and advocate for something that matters deeply to them. I also love how intimate the program is. Families go through such a unique experience together, and watching them form these incredibly strong bonds is really meaningful to be a part of.

Dude Ranch: There is just nothing quite like being outdoors, surrounded by nature and horses! I love watching campers try things they may never have had the opportunity to do otherwise. When you’re out on trail rides, taking in the surroundings and listening to campers chat with each other and bond with the horses, you know they’re making memories that will last a lifetime.

What are some words of wisdom or advice that you would give campers?

Don’t be afraid to be yourself. Camp is a place where you can show up exactly as you are, and you’ll be accepted, supported, and celebrated for it. So be silly, try something new, ask the question, and don’t worry too much about what anyone else thinks. Camp accepts you, loves you, and celebrates you for exactly who you are.

What are some words of wisdom or advice that you would give new or interested volunteers?

Just do it! You won’t regret it. You might be nervous going into your first program, and you might wonder if you’ll know what to do or whether you’ll really make a difference. But you absolutely will. Camp One Step is all about changing the lives of campers and their families, but I think one of the coolest things about volunteering is realizing that you’ll probably be changed, too. You’ll meet incredible people, learn things about yourself, and leave with memories you’ll carry with you long after camp is over. And you might just find yourself addicted to being part of the COS community, just like me!