Camp Chimer

Every kid deserves the chance to thrive. 

Collage of kids having fun at Camp ChiMer with the Camp ChiMer logo

Register for Camp Chimer

Camper Registration Form |  Volunteer Registration Application 

Need Help Getting to Camp?

Thanks to our new partnership with Angel Flight, families traveling from outside of the Kansas City area can request a camp flight. 

The planes are 4 or 6 seater planes. If there is inclement weather, they cannot fly so you'll need a backup option just in case. If you are traveling from far away, this may require a transfer or two, since pilots are limited on how far they can fly. If you go this route, please let us know so we can coordinate ground transportation once you arrive.

Camp Flight Request Form

Two kids holding up paintings they made

About Camp Chimer

Camp Chimer was started in 1986 by Dr. Brad Warady, dedicated volunteers, and health care professionals. All of whom shared a common goal to create an opportunity for children with end stage renal disease to participate in a camp experience and develop peer relationships, regardless of their medical needs. 

Camp Chimer is for children ages 9 to 18 who are undergoing peritoneal dialysis, hemodialysis, or have had a renal transplant. Here, campers will have the chance to participate in exciting activities, including swimming in our filtered pool.

The National Kidney Foundation, with medical support from Children's Mercy Hospital and Clinics, is excited to run this fun and unique summer camp experience. Camp Chimer is held at a beautiful privately owned facility in Kansas City, Missouri.

Camp will be staffed by a medical team and incredbile volunteers. Campers are medically supervised. Campers form friendships and share common bonds and experiences with others who are "just like them", all while enjoying the therapeutic benefits of the great outdoors.

two kids doing archery at Camp ChiMer

The Mission of the Camp

The mission of Camp Chimer is to provide an opportunity for children with end stage renal disease to participate in a summer camp experience and develop peer relationships, regardless of their medical needs.

two kids climbing up a climbing wall

Activities Include

  • SWIMMING!
  • Fishing
  • Canoe/Kyaking
  • Dance Party
  • Camp Carnival
  • Movie Night
  • Arts & Crafts
  • Memories for a lifetime
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kid completely covered in bubbles

Financial Support

Thanks to sponsorships and donations, we are able to provide Camp Chimer at no cost to the families. It is our goal to never ask the families for money to send their child to camp and that's how you can help. We want to continue providing these children the opportunity of a lifetime where they can just be a kid and make lasting friendships. 

You can make an individual donation below. If you or your company would be interested in a sponsorship opportunity check back soon for the link to our sponsor packet. 

We appreciate your consideration and generosity in support of our campers!

Contact Tiffany Scheffler to discuss sponsorship opportunities.

Make a Donation
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Group of kids being silly together

What to Bring to Camp Chimer

  • *Mask
  • Blanket
  • Swimsuit (a towel will be provided, but you're welcome to bring one)
  • Plastic bag for your wet swimsuit
  • Sandals or flip flops for the pool
  • Comfortable closed toe shoes and socks (tennis shoes and/or hiking boots)
  • Reusable water bottle (recommend insulated)
  • Protective clothing such as a hat, sunglasses, or rash guard
  • Toiletries
  • Flashlight
  • Camp Medicines
  • Excitement and Curiosity
     

* = Optional

smiling kid covered in bubbles

Camp Chimer 2027

Friday 7/23/27 1:00PM CT - Sunday 7/25/27 3:00PM CT

For campers ages 9-18 with end stage renal disease.

What to know about Camp Chimer?

  • Camp Chimer is an overnight summer camp experience! Campers will check-in with their guardians at 12:45pm CST Friday July 23 and be picked up no later than 3:00pm CST Sunday July 25.The person picking up must be on the approved list and show ID. Camper check in and out is performed by the National Kidney Foundation, who is running Camp Chimer.
  • Dialysis will be provided (peritoneal, not hemo).
  • Camp counselors/volunteers are necessary to make camp happen! If you are interested in joining the incredible Camp Chimer team fill out our volunteer interest form.

Interested in learning more?

For more information about this event contact Ra'Deja Johnson/ 314.961.2828 ext 486.

Two kids wearing safety gear in front of a climbing wall

Health & Safety Requirements

All NKF Staff, Children’s Mercy Medical Staff, volunteers, and campers must conduct a self-prescreening prior to leaving for camp. If any two symptoms are present, do not attend camp.

Prescreening Checklist:

  • Temperature of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher
  • Sore throat
  • Cough (for campers with chronic cough due to allergies or asthma, a change in their cough from baseline, must be documented by a medical professional)
  • Difficulty breathing (for campers with asthma, a change from their baseline breathing, must be documented by a medical professional)
  • Diarrhea or vomiting
  • New loss of taste or smell
  • New onset of severe headache, especially with a fever
kid and camp counselor posing with paintings they worked on

Volunteer Info

Would you like to serve our amazing campers as a camp staff member? 

Volunteer Application Requirements

  • All camp volunteers must be at least 19 years old by July 21, 2027 (not attended camp the previous year).
  • All camp volunteers will be required to consent to a background check.
  • All camp volunteers will be required to complete a Sexual Abuse Awareness training online.
  • All camp volunteers will be required to attend training Thursday, July 22nd in the evening
  • Camper Parent/Guardians cannot volunteer at camp.
  • Volunteer Interest Form

2026 Camp Sponsors

Camp ChiMer Sponsors as of 6.30.26

For more information on how to become a sponsor for our 40th anniversary camp in 2026 contact Tiffany Scheffler.

 
 

Time & Location

Friday, July 23, 2027 - 1:00pm to Sunday, July 25, 2027 - 3:00pm

 

Lake (camp) Doniphan 
12856 Doniphan Lake Rd
Excelsior Springs, MO 64024
United States
Directions