One by One
The Grand Adventure, Recipient

The Grand Adventure

Jackson, Wyoming

Nonprofit’s custom camp shirts are a practical keepsake

For people diagnosed with cancer, life often revolves around hospitals, treatments and appointments. The Grand Adventure offers a welcome diversion: an opportunity to explore the outdoors, build connections and experience the healing power of nature.

Founded in 2008, the nonprofit brings teens affected by cancer to Wyoming for a weeklong outdoor experience—including trips to Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park. Over 18 years, the organization expanded its programming to include outdoor retreats for adults in or after treatment, as well as offering live, interactive and customized virtual experiences for patients unable to travel. All retreats, including travel, lodging and activities, are provided at no cost to the participant or family.

Connecting people with nature—and each other

The Grand Adventure’s signature program brings teens ages 13 to 17 to picturesque Jackson Hole, Wyoming. They spend a week canoeing, hiking, spotting wildlife and exploring some of the country’s most spectacular landscapes. These experiences are made possible through partnerships with hospitals, their caregiving departments and support providers.

Far more than outdoor recreation is explored during the program trips. Participants spend time with peers who understand the challenges of a cancer diagnosis, forming bonds that sometimes continue long after the trip. Each year, campers begin the week by reading letters from previous participants and conclude their experiences by writing letters to future campers.

“We bring teens that are either finishing treatment or are right outside of treatment and some have never been on a plane or seen snow,” said Bree Hill, who supports program development and is a childhood cancer survivor herself. “We take them away from the hospital, get them out into one of the most beautiful places and around a bunch of people that truly understand what they’re living through.”

Lasting reminder of a special experience

A one by one grant provided long-sleeve hooded shirts given to campers at the beginning of each experience. The custom camp shirts are designed for outdoor activities and quickly become a valuable part of the camp experience. Much of the programming takes place on the water, on trails or in open landscapes where participants spend long hours outdoors. Aside from helping keep the adventurers comfortable, the shirts provide protection from the sun, wind and insects.

“We want campers to fully be there and be present and engaged,” Hill said. “The sun hoodies provide protection from the elements, so nothing distracts from their ability to participate, connect and make the most of their experience."

The shirts are offered in two colors and feature The Grand Adventure logo, helping raise awareness while giving participants a keepsake to take home. Many campers return home with a wearable reminder of the friendships, experiences and confidence they gained on their trip.

A note from Cheryl

The Grand Adventure helps people impacted by cancer discover strength, resilience and connection through outdoor experiences. We were delighted to provide custom camp shirts that help participants stay comfortable while creating lasting memories. If you’re interested in a one by one grant, visit onebyone.4imprint.com.

For more information about The Grand Adventure, please visit https://www.thegrandadventure.org/

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