The Mend a Heart Foundation supports initiatives that extend and enrich the lives of heart kids. The foundation is run entirely by volunteers and has raised more than $1.4 million for causes that support their mission. At Camp Odayin, we are grateful for their financial support and recognition that camp is good medicine for children […] Read more

HeartWorks is laser focused on CHD research and creating positive outcomes for people born with congenital heart defects. Through their revolutionary platform, they tap the best ideas and advance them through trials and onto therapies that give children and adults with CHD an opportunity to live fulfilling lives. We love when the HeartWorks trailer joins […] Read more

The Children’s Heart Foundation has been solely dedicated to funding the most promising CHD research since 1996. Their fundraising has improved survival rates, longevity and quality of life for those living with CHD in dramatic and life changing ways. Their vision is a world in which everyone born with a congenital heart defect has the chance […] Read more

There are an estimated 1.5 million adults living with CHD, some of whom are our volunteers and former campers. Adult Congenital Heart Association (ACHA) supports CHD patients & families with programs, services & activities to advance access to resources and specialized care.  Some of their resources include Q&As, webinars for wellness, Walk for 1 in […] Read more

CaringBridge Inc. is a charitable 501(c)(3) non-profit organization established in 1997 which allows people facing various medical conditions and their family and friends to communicate.  CaringBridge is celebrating their 25th anniversary and recently shared the story of an amazing heart family we know and love. The Bushaw family has used the CaringBridge platform to share […] Read more

Elena Westbrook is a former camper, five-year volunteer counselor, and Camp Odayin enthusiast. She is a proud third generation Chicagoan who currently works at a small marketing agency in Chicago’s west loop. When she’s not at Camp Odayin, she’s trying new recipes, diving into Chicago history, and catching up with camp pals old and new. […] 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 […] Read more

Did you know…Camp Odayin’s logo is a turtle and we affectionately them Mortimer! Why do you think we have a turtle logo? Here is what a few people think: The Turtle symbolizes longevity, perseverance, steadfastness, protection, retreat, healing, tranquility, the Earth, and transformation.– Kelly Because the turtle shell is very tough and strong…. Just like […] Read more

Angel Flight Central partners with Camp Odayin to provide flight transportation for our campers that otherwise would not be able to attend Residential Camp. These pilots are volunteers who not only fly campers, but they also pay all the related costs to make the flights free of charge.  Together with their small Flight Coordination Team, […] Read more