For many children, camp becomes a place where they truly feel at home. As one camper shared, “The camp staff made me feel welcome and like I belonged there. I felt comfortable talking to my counsellors about any issues I had—or even if I just wanted to talk. Camp was a relaxing, stress-free kingdom where everyone got along.”
That sense of confidence and belonging is at the heart of the Fireside Gala. As Jordanna Grossinger, Co-Chair of the Fireside Gala, explains, “Camp is where so many children discover confidence, belonging, and the freedom to truly be themselves. The Fireside Gala is an opportunity to gather with people who genuinely care about that impact—an elevated, fun evening in Toronto, rooted in connection, shared values, and the belief that every child in Ontario deserves the chance to experience the magic of camp.”
In support of this mission, Kids in Camp is inviting the camp community and those who believe in the power of these experiences to gather for a special evening. Fireside Gala: The Ultimate Camp Reunion will take place on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, bringing together parents, camp alumni, leaders, and supporters for a night of connection, reflection, and shared purpose.
Hosted at Arcadia Earth at The Well in downtown Toronto, the setting is both immersive and meaningful. Surrounded by installations that celebrate the natural world, guests will be reminded of why time outdoors matters so deeply for children and why protecting access to these experiences is worth supporting. In many ways, the venue reflects the sense of responsibility to something larger than oneself that camp helps instill.
For families supported by Kids in Camp, these opportunities can be life-changing. KIC’s financial assistance helps remove barriers, allowing more children to participate in experiences that support their emotional, social, physical, and personal growth. Camp becomes a place where children feel supported, encouraged to be themselves, and connected to others.
This ripple effect is something Jay Haddad, President of Kids in Camp, has witnessed for decades. “Since 1967, and dating back to my own counsellor days, I’ve seen a powerful dynamic unfold when children experience summer camp,” he explains. "The values they develop often inspire them to want to ‘pay it forward."
Proceeds from the Fireside Gala will directly help send more children to camp, opening doors to experiences that shape curious, confident, capable, and connected young people.
Tickets are now on sale and can be purchased at:
https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/fireside-gala-the-ultimate-camp-reunion-tickets-1974523534043?aff=oddtdtcreator
