Camp Kandu – a place where kids with diabetes ‘Kandu’ anything! Join the Diabetes Foundation of Mississippi in empowering kids and making a difference in their lives!
Camp Kandu, held twice a year at the Twin Lakes Conference Center in Florence, MS, offers children with diabetes, as well as their parents, siblings, and even their friends, the opportunity to have fun while learning to take charge of diabetes. The camp is free for children with diabetes, and parents and siblings pay only a small fee. Through the generosity of others, the Diabetes Foundation of Mississippi is able to host children with diabetes to Camp Kandu as well as offer scholarships to other diabetes camps.
Camp participants – parents and children alike – learn about diabetes management, including the importance of healthy meal planning, exercising regularly, and monitoring blood glucose levels.
As one of the signature services offered by the DFM, Camp Kandu gets its name from a “can-do” attitude, as that’s what gives people the ability to do anything, even those of us with diabetes. Camp Kandu seeks to inspire children to live their lives to the fullest, while remaining active and healthy. The camp’s weekend activities are testament to the children’s bustling, excited, and vivacious personalities. Participants may do anything from tie-dying T-shirts, taking karate lessons, painting pottery, hula-hoop contests, or even relay games – and that’s just the tip of the iceberg!
Camp Kandu works its magic as our kids (and parents) make lasting friendships with others just like themselves. Some of our first campers and their families now act as counselors for the next generation.
Children with diabetes are just like any other children, with the exception they have to pay particular attention to their medication, eating habits, and blood sugar, and Camp Kandu emphasizes their ability to live healthy lives while making friends with other children who share similar experiences.
Interested in Volunteering? Nurses/Health professionals and Art Project/Campfire Music leaders are needed in particular.