“What began as virtual meetings during the pandemic has evolved into a powerful network of compassionate leaders of these camps, united in our mission to support the emotional needs of the pediatric heart disease community. We call ourselves ‘Heart Camps United.’ ” Sara Meslow (our Executive Director) shared an update from this wonderful group of […] Read more

Is your child ready for heart camp? In 2026, we kicked off the year with a Camp Odayin information session. We invite any campers or parents who have questions about camp or are unsure about whether they’re ready to attend, to view the recording. During the info session, our camp directors discuss the joy of […] Read more

Make a homemade gift for a teacher, friend or family member!  This simple craft was first introduced to heart families during the family camp service fair this fall.  It was a popular and easy craft!  Get as creative as you want with paints and doodles to make these magnets special. We do recommend that adults […] Read more

One of the most highly praised aspects of our fall Family Camp weekends is the parent time session on Saturday afternoon. During this time, heart heroes and siblings are engaged in fun activities with Camp Odayin volunteers and visiting instructors and entertainers. Parents have an opportunity to hear from medical professionals, ask questions, and create connections with […] Read more

Those of us who work at Odayin year-round are life-long learners and have formed a team ‘book club’. We recently zeroed in on our passion for the healing power of nature and read the 2021 book ‘Grounded’ by Ruth Allen. In it, Allen beautifully reinforced our firm belief that connecting with nature improve lives and […] Read more

Join Ollie Hinkle Heart Foundation (OHHF) for the 6th annual Take Heart Conference on October 24, 2025—a FREE, fully virtual event designed to connect, educate, and empower the congenital heart community. This interactive conference brings together heart families, care providers, and advocates from across the globe for a day of learning, sharing, and inspiration. Whether […] Read more

At Camp Odayin, trust is the heart of our organization. Whether you’re a parent, a donor, or a volunteer, you deserve to know that we’re operating with the highest level of care and integrity. That’s why we’re proud to have met the highest standards for accountability from GuideStar/Candid, the Charities Review Council, and the American […] Read more

Each spring at the Have a Heart Benefit, we recognize a volunteer who has made an exceptional contribution to our mission. Our 2025 Heart of Gold award winner is Cassie (Reinbold) Branden.  Cassie was part of the Odayin family long before she became a volunteer. Her journey began as an 11-year-old camper in 2003, during […] Read more

Each year, a Camp Odayin donor offers individuals that have participated in Camp Odayin programs an opportunity to apply for a $1,000 scholarship to support post-secondary education. (Award will be paid directly to an accredited technical, 2 year or 4 year college.).  High school seniors as well as current college students can apply, and can […] Read more