When Darla Dakin was informed Camp Wapiyapi had been chosen for the Colorado Indepndent Dealers Association’s 2023 Charity Gala Fund-A-Need she replied, “We are so honored, thank you!”
Camp Wapiyapi was founded in 1998 by a group of medical students to serve children diagnosed with pediatric cancer. It allows them and their siblings to attend the camp and enjoy the activities most of us take for granted. The cost, covered by Camp Wapiyapi, for each camper to attend for the week is $1,800, includes the cost of the facility, activities, meals and insurance.
The 24-hour care they require is provided by doctors and nurses who volunteer their time along with the student volunteers. Toward the end of the gala, Dakin and Rebekah Cohen were invited to stand in front of the crowd of 450 people as Dean Gunter explained who they were and what they did for the community. Gunter wanted everyone to see the people of the organization whom they were going to be asked to raise their paddles for and support.
Donations started flowing and you could hear a pin drop. The first donation started at $10,000 and did not end until the last $100 was pledged. Dakin and Cohen knew something special just took place but they would not realize how special until the check presentation.
When the Camp Wapiyapi Board of Directors arrived for the check presentation they had no idea the impact their organization had on the people in the room until they were presented with a check for $102,000. Tears of gratitude and joy flowed as they realized how many additional children with pediatric cancer the organization will be able to help. They expressed their appreciation to every donor who just enabled them to change lives and make a difference for the children along with their siblings.
Visit www.campwapiyapi.org to find out more information on the charity and support their mission.
