We’re celebrating Volunteer Appreciation Week by introducing some of the amazing volunteers that make Camp Stepping Stones possible every year.

We are thrilled to introduce you to Cam who is returning for his third year at Camp Stepping Stones!

What do you do when you’re not volunteering?

I work for the IERHA as an Occupational Safety and Health Officer.

When I’m not working, I love spending time with my daughter or being out with my dog. If ever I have spare time outside of normal life, I really enjoy woodworking or doing other DIY type projects.

How long have you been volunteering at Camp Stepping Stones?

This will be my third year at camp.

What first inspired you to volunteer at Camp Stepping Stones?

Honestly, it started because the camp was looking for male volunteers. My dad passed away suddenly when I was in my mid-twenties, and that loss hit me hard. I remember thinking how incredible it would’ve been to have something like this for adults—a space to connect with others who were grieving and just get it. I thought maybe, by showing up and sharing even a little bit of that experience with the campers, it could help in their healing… and maybe in mine too.

What keeps you coming back?

The first summer I went, it was so hot—I swear it never dropped below 30°C—but even with the heat, I was hooked. There’s just something really special about being part of a weekend like this. You see these kids show up on Friday with their guard up, not really sure what to expect. And then, by Sunday, so many of them are laughing, opening up, sharing their stories, and realizing they’re not alone. Watching that shift happen—seeing them find comfort and connection with others who get it—it’s honestly one of the most meaningful things I’ve ever been part of. That’s what keeps me coming back.

How would you describe Camp Stepping Stones to someone who’s never heard of it?

It’s a really special place—somewhere kids can come and just be with others who understand what it’s like to lose someone, without having to explain or feel different.

The weekend is a mix of fun camp stuff—games, crafts, campfires—and meaningful grief activities that help kids talk about their loss, remember their person, and start to process what they’re feeling. What’s amazing is how quickly the kids start to open up.

As a volunteer, you’re not there to fix anything—you’re just there to show up, be present, and create a space where kids feel safe, seen, and supported.

What’s your favourite memory or moment from camp?

Last year, there was a boy in my cabin who showed up on Friday completely attached to his mom—like, physically glued to her side. You could see the fear and tension in his whole body. His mom explained that he hadn’t been like this before his dad passed away, but since then, he’d become incredibly anxious and withdrawn—a bundle of nerves.

On Saturday afternoon, after spending most of the day sitting out and just watching, a few of us were playing “Slap Jack” in the cabin. Out of the blue, he decided to join. The second that first jack hit the pile, it was like a switch flipped—he was laughing, fully engaged, and slapping those cards like a pro.

From that moment on, everything started to change. He slowly became more involved, started connecting with the other kids, and seemed more at ease. It was like he was literally getting taller—not because he grew overnight, but because he wasn’t hunched over from all that tension and anxiety anymore. He was standing straighter, smiling more, just lighter.

When his mom came back on Sunday, I think she expected to scoop up her nervous son and take him straight home. Instead, he gave her a quick hug and a “Hey, Mom,” then ran off to keep playing with his new friends. She was stunned—in the best way—and couldn’t believe how much had changed in just 48 hours.

What do you hope campers take away from their time at camp?

I hope they leave camp knowing they’re not alone—that there are other kids who understand what they’re going through. I want them to feel seen, supported, and safe enough to be themselves, whether that means sharing their story or just having fun for the first time in a while.

If they leave feeling even a little lighter, more connected, or proud of themselves for showing up—that’s what I hope.

What would you say to someone thinking about volunteering next year?

Do it. It’s an experience you won’t forget anytime soon.

Thank you Terry for your continued support of Camp Stepping Stones!