We have some exciting news to share.  Camp Firefly and Camp Independence have come together as Camp Independent Firefly. 

Both Camps have become premier programs that Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation of Nevada and the Nevada Chapter of the National Hemophilia Foundation are proud to offer to our special families.  It’s a time that kids can meet new friends, forget about their illness and create wonderful childhood memories.  Our organizations are truly blessed to have a phenomenal team of volunteers, donors and staff that help make the magic happen each summer for our kids.

As our camp programs increase in popularity among our families, we have realized that we have outgrown the facility where both Camp Firefly and Camp Independence have taken place for the past nine summers.  We have decided to become partners, as both organizations have the same vision for our kids. Our first step was to find a new facility, where we can expand our camp programs. 

We are excited to announce that Camp Independent Firefly will be moving to Big Bear, California.   We have found a beautiful facility, nestled in the San Bernardino Mountains, which is owned and operated by the YMCA of Metro Los Angeles.  Camp Whittle is located just two miles from Big Bear Lake and has been home to hundreds of summer camps since 1958.

Candlelighters and the Hemophilia Foundation are extremely excited for this opportunity.  Camp is for youth 7-17 years of age. We have many new activities that will be offered to your children, such as horseback riding and life size fuse ball to name a few and some returning favorites like rock wall, swimming, and arts & crafts.  We will also be offering a Leader in Training (LIT) Program for our youth aged 17 & 18.  This program prepares them to be our counselors and leaders of the future.

Another exciting addition to our camp program will be “Bunk Notes”.  Bunk Notes is a way, you, the parent will be able to email your camper, via secured website.  This website also features  a daily newsletter for you to read about what we are up to, photo gallery to see all the fun we are having and finally your camper will be able to respond to your email! 

We realize that change can be uneasy and we are making every effort to make this transition comforting for our families and volunteers.  Campers and will be surrounded by familiar faces from our past programs, Candlelighters & Hemophilia staff, both medical teams and returning counselors.

Both the Candlelighters and Hemophilia Foundation staffs and camp committee are here to answer any questions that you may have.  Please know we are thrilled to offer this opportunity for our families and volunteers and we look forward to a new and exciting camp experience.