About Camp Agape Northwest

Our Story

Since 1997, Camp Agape Northwest has been serving children with cancer and their families, creating a place of joy, rest, and unconditional love in the midst of life’s most difficult journey. The vision for Camp Agape began when Father John Bakus and Bishop Anthony of the Greek Orthodox San Francisco Metropolis witnessed firsthand the profound isolation families experience when a child is diagnosed with cancer. They saw the need for a place where families could step away from hospitals and fear, and instead be surrounded by care, community, and the simple magic of being together.

That vision became reality through the Ladies Philoptochos Society, a Greek Orthodox women’s philanthropic organization dedicated to serving those in need. In the Pacific Northwest, these women connected with Jeff and Deb Greer of Missoula, Montana, parents who understood the journey of childhood cancer personally after their own son’s diagnosis. Together, as parents, church members, and volunteers, they built Camp Agape Northwest from the ground up.

The name Agape, meaning unconditional love, was chosen to reflect the spirit that defined those early days and continues to define camp today.

Camp Agape Northwest is now an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, but it remains rooted in that same spirit of community and service. Over the years, Camp Agape Northwest has served more than 300 families. Many who once attended as campers now return as volunteers themselves. Volunteers have traveled from across Washington, more than 10 different states, and even internationally to be part of this work. Camp continues to be powered entirely by volunteers and sustained through the generosity of the community.

What began as a small group of people simply trying to help families feel less alone has grown into a lasting community—one built on connection, compassion, and Agape.

Mission

Camp Agape Northwest believes that when a child has cancer, the entire family is affected and in need of care and healing. We achieve this through a community of Agape, the purest form of love. Focusing on families who receive treatment in Washington State, we provide Agape in a setting filled with joy, laughter, and respite, at no cost.

Fun Facts

  • 300+ families served — and 300+ stories of courage, connection, and joy

  • 100 volunteers each year — fueled by coffee, compassion, and very little sleep

  • 5,000+ meals lovingly prepared — with seconds (and thirds) always encouraged

  • 25,000+ milkshakes blended — because unlimited milkshakes are a very serious camp tradition

  • Thousands of water balloons launched — some hitting their intended target

  • Infinite hugs exchanged — the unofficial currency of Camp Agape Northwest

  • Millions of smiles

  • Thousands of friendships

  • And one community, built on Agape

Every number tells part of the story. The rest lives in the memories families carry home with them.

Inclusivity

At Camp Agape Northwest, we believe every family facing childhood cancer deserves to be welcomed with dignity, compassion, and unconditional love. We are committed to creating a camp community where children, siblings, parents, volunteers, and staff feel safe, respected, and valued.

We welcome families and volunteers of all backgrounds, identities, cultures, abilities, and experiences. Our focus is simple: when a child is diagnosed with cancer, the entire family deserves support. Camp is a place where differences are honored, kindness is expected, and Agape guides how we treat one another.