Camp Kesem Central Pennsylvania is recruiting counselors for its second annual camp season at Camp Kweebec in Schwencksville, Pa., from Aug. 16-21, 2015. Central Pennsylvania’s Camp Kesem is a branch of the inspiring national student-run organization that helps children cope with a parent’s cancer.

The camp is looking for passionate Penn State students to volunteer as counselors for what they call “the best week of their campers’ lives.” The 2015 weeklong summer camp will host 50 campers and is completely free, thanks to the generosity of its donors. The week consists of activities such as sports, drama, arts and crafts, ziplining, canoeing, and “messy Olympics.”

The Central PA chapter was founded at the end of the spring 2013 semester, when a group of Penn State students won an online competition through the Livestrong Foundation. Their first year of camp was a success for not only the 21 campers, but also their parents.

“The students who made camp possible are the most loving and sacrificial group of young people I have ever met in my life,” said one parent. “They are fantastic role models for our children.”

There will be an information session for prospective counselors on Tuesday, Dec. 9 at 7 p.m. in 107 Wartik. The applications for this incredible experience are currently live and will close Jan. 3 at 11:59 p.m.

“The kids that attend Camp Kesem Central PA are going through such a tough time at home, and to help provide a fun-filled week where they can be kids again has been one of the most rewarding experiences I have ever had,” said Co-Student Director Parth Patel. “There isn’t a group of kids that deserves it more. Not to mention, it was one of the funnest weeks of my life.”