An organization that offers free camp programs in Western Colorado to children with serious illnesses has enlisted the assistance of individuals to reach a capital campaign goal of $27 million.

Ruth Johnson, founding president and chief executive officer of Roundup River Ranch, said donations are needed to help the organization meet increasing demand for medically supported camp programs at its facilities near Gypsum.

“Serious illnesses can turn a child’s and family’s lives upside down. And as a result, the pure joy of just being a kid can become elusive. Too often, these children are forced to opt out of activities, miss out on the fun and forgo trying something new. But at camp, there are no limits,” Johnson said.

Roundup River Ranch operates the only medically supported camp in Colorado that provides comprehensive programming at no cost to families. The organization is a member of the SeriousFun Children’s Network, a global communities of camps and programs offering support to children with serious illnesses.

Roundup River Ranch opened in 2011 and since has provided more than 17,000 camper experiences free of charge. It’s estimated more than 35,000 children in the region could benefit from Roundup River Ranch its programs. 

Roundup River Ranch has raised nearly $20 million, which includes a $4.5 million endowment from the Frechette Family Foundation. Johnson said additional donations are needed to enable the organization to fulfill its mission.

The campaign will enable Roundup River Ranch to serve 50 percent more campers annually, add and upgrade infrastructure, expand activities and programs and extend geographic reach.

“It’s our responsibility as an organization to create a world of possibilities for children with serious illnesses,” Johnson said.

For more information about the Roundup River Ranch and its capital campaign, log on to https://RoundupRiverRanch.org/Campaign.