In 2024, thanks to the generous support of Oakland Hills Country Club, Red Run Golf Club, and Walnut Creek Country Club, Camp Casey was able to bring joy, comfort, and unforgettable experiences to children with cancer, sickle cell disease, and other life-threatening illnesses. Through cost-free horseback riding programs, Camp Casey empowers families and volunteers while building bonds within communities and among those facing similar challenges.
Support from Eagles for Children made it possible to fund signature programs such as:
Horsey House Calls – Bringing camp to the homes of children too sick to attend summer camp. Families enjoy an afternoon of horse grooming and safety lessons, individual rides, team-building games, a craft project, hand-made horse treats, and a pizza party, all from the comfort of their own homes.
Cowboy Camp Outs – All-inclusive weekend getaways for the whole family. In a peaceful, unplugged atmosphere, families enjoy private cabins, campfires and s’mores, hayrides, trail rides, indoor and outdoor water parks, and the comfort of being surrounded by others who understand their journey.
Horses in the Hallway – A new 2024 program that brings a therapy horse and social worker into classrooms, offering lessons on empathy and social-emotional growth for the peers of Camp Casey’s young riders.
The impact of these experiences is deeply felt:
"My family enjoyed time together outside of the hospital doing something only this opportunity allowed. Our Horsey House call had to be rescheduled due to my son being in the hospital and the team was so helpful in finding a new time for us to experience this. It ended up being on our first weekend home from end of treatment and the start of remission, making it extra special. It was the first time my whole family had been together outside of the hospital in over 6 months. My son really enjoyed it and now loves horses!"
– Hazel, mother of 2-year old Mercy, diagnosed with high risk acute myeloid leukemia from Detroit, Michigan
"The event was so beautiful. My family and friends can't stop talking about it. Scarlett had an awesome time and seeing my kiddo this happy was more than I can ask for. A few hours of leaving the reality of her illness, made her spirit bloom. Also, the volunteers were so awesome! Camp Casey was wonderful. The whole staff was fabulous. My daughter keeps talking, and for sure will be talking about her experience for years to come. From the bottom of our hearts thank you for giving that joy to my child in such difficult time for her."
– Estela, mother of 16-year old Scarlett, diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia from Macomb, Michigan
"Being involved with Camp Casey has made a tremendous impact on my life, and undoubtably the lives of the families served. Their mission has attracted a community of amazing people and I'm so grateful to be a part of it!"
– Anonymous Volunteer
Through the generosity of supporting clubs, Camp Casey continues to bring hope, joy, and connection to families navigating some of life’s most difficult challenges – reminding every child they serve that they are seen, loved, and never alone.