Ukandu

09/03/2026

"Ukandu has become so much of who I am and what I do that I can't imagine not volunteering."

Marcie -- better known as Smalls around Ukandu -- began volunteering after getting connected through her employer. Now, she attends both Camp Ukandu and Ukandu Family Camp and serves on Ukandu's Board of Directors.

We are so thankful to have Smalls as a part of our Ukandu community -- you can read more about her experience volunteering here: https://www.ukandu.org/blog/smalls

09/03/2026

Thank you, KGW-TV, for sharing about Ukandu and The Loft.

We are so excited to bring this much-needed resource to families battling childhood cancer when we open our doors in October.

Ukandu plans on opening a new center called The Loft next month, designed to give support and a safe space for families whose children are battling cancer.

09/01/2026

This year, over 15,000 kids will be diagnosed with cancer. And in that same moment, their families will be asked to navigate a maze of disjointed services just to save their child's life and spirit.

But that's more than a number. It's real families feeling the real weight of a childhood cancer diagnosis, every single day.

It's caregivers desperately searching for treatment options, behavioral health support, a community that "just gets it," or simply a way to put a smile back on their kid's face.

It's siblings feeling alone and scared — afraid to burden their caregivers with their own needs or feelings.

It's kids who are tired of being brave, tired of being in pain, tired of missing out on normal childhood experiences.

Families deserve better. They deserve wraparound support the second they receive a diagnosis. They deserve a community that gets it and shows up — no questions asked.

Join us this month as we fight for a future where no family has to face childhood cancer alone. 💛🎗️

08/26/2026

"Swimming a rapid isn't a failure, it's an opportunity."

That's what one teen told us after a week of whitewater kayaking and camping under the stars at Ukandu's Teen Retreat in partnership with LEAP. These teens have already survived things they never chose. Watching them opt into a challenge anyway? It's nothing short of magical.

Read more about our week at Teen Retreat and why this program is such a critical part of Ukandu's mission here: https://www.ukandu.org/blog/the-impact-of-opting-into-challenge

08/25/2026

For families navigating a childhood cancer diagnosis, "back-to-school" isn't just excitement and anticipation. It's scheduling around appointments, managing symptoms, and figuring out who to tell (and what to say).

It can feel big, scary, and really, really hard.

At Ukandu, we believe families shouldn't have to figure it out alone. Read reflections from Ukandu's Director of Behavioral Health on navigating back-to-school with a childhood cancer diagnosis here: ukandu.org/blog/back-to-school

08/13/2026

The Ukandu Golf Tournament is a day of community, connection, and impact in support of children and families affected by childhood and adolescent cancer. More than just a round of golf, this event brings together supporters, partners, and friends of Ukandu to help fund an experience built on joy, hope, and belonging.

Guests will enjoy a full tournament day on the course along with exciting sponsor activations, on course contests, great food and drinks, and our newest addition, the 19th Hole. A post tournament gathering designed to keep the energy going and celebrate the mission behind the event.

Reserve your foursome before it's too late: https://app.kismet.golf/event/ez-golf

08/12/2026

This fall, The Loft will open its doors as a year-round community space for families impacted by childhood cancer.

But right now, there are still pieces waiting to make it feel like home.

🎨 Art supplies waiting to inspire creativity.
🎲 Games waiting to spark laughter.
🛋️ Cozy spaces waiting for meaningful conversations.
💛 And more!

Today, we're launching Bring The Loft to Life — a community-powered wishlist filled with one-time purchases, ongoing needs, and opportunities to make a lasting impact.

Every item helps turn an empty space into a vibrant place where families can connect, create, recharge, and simply be together.

Take a look at the wishlist, choose an item, and help us bring The Loft to life. 🏡✨

https://givelink.app/en/charities/ukandu?wl=behavioral-health-clinic

08/10/2026

Last Friday, we gathered at the Oregon Historical Society to celebrate Ukandu's 40th birthday! 🎉 Guests wandered through our exhibit, swapping memories and reflecting on how far we've come over four decades of serving families facing childhood and adolescent cancer. The evening was full of the same hope, joy, and connection that Ukandu has been built on since day one. 💛

We're endlessly grateful to celebrate 40 years alongside so many of the people who helped lay the groundwork in the 1980s for the Ukandu that families know and love today. ✨