This year, Ukandu turns 40.

As we enter a new decade, we are also entering a time of transformation. Our flagship camps will always be part of our foundation, but we are expanding how we support families—creating even more opportunities for care, connection, and community.

In our 40th year, we’re proud to open The Loft - a dedicated space built to support individuals and families affected by pediatric cancer, bringing together thoughtful, year-round programs and deep expertise under one roof.

Conveniently located near both of our hospital partners, The Loft will serve as Ukandu’s programming hub and headquarters. More importantly, it will create a welcoming home for care, connection, and wellness.

The Loft is a purpose-built space designed to bring the spirit of our beloved camp programs into every season. Here, we will offer specially designed programming and behavioral health services that support families at every stage of their journey with pediatric cancer.

At Ukandu, we have deep knowledge of what a cancer diagnosis means - and the impact it can have on individuals and families.

We know that more than 50% of families experience significant financial hardship during treatment. That’s why all of our programs are offered 100% free of charge.

We know that at least one-third of families will experience life-changing distress as a result of a pediatric cancer diagnosis. That’s why we’ve built a team of experts - specially trained people who not only provide direct support, but also help shape the programs we offer - so that we can be here for you whenever you need us, be that now, during treatment, or even years later.

And we know that families deserve more joy.

Sometimes that joy comes from connecting with someone who truly understands. Sometimes it comes from laughter during a shared activity. And sometimes it comes simply from being in a place where you can be yourself - without having to explain.

We believe that medicine treats cancer.

But healing takes more than medicine.

Families need connection.
They need support.
They need moments of joy.
They need places where they can simply be whole.

At Ukandu, we are here to provide all of that—for you and your family.

Because everyone deserves more than medicine.

More Than Medicine is Ukandu's new blog series, created and curated by Ukandu Clinical Director Joel Lampert, PsyD, that shares stories, insights, and support for families battling childhood cancer. Joel specializes in supporting children and families facing complex medical and mental health challenges, especially childhood cancer. An Oregon native, he earned his doctorate from Pacific University and completed pediatric training at Children’s Home Society of Idaho. Known for his compassionate, culturally responsive care, he has served on the medical staff at Randall Children's Hospital and continues to mentor future clinicians.