Camp Goodtime

Did You Know?

What is Camp Goodtime?

Songs from Camp

Camp Goodtime was founded in 1985 by Mrs. Estelle Forbes-Doucet, former oncology nurse coordinator at the IWK Children’s Hospital.

Camp Goodtime was the first camp of its kind in the Maritimes.

In 1985, 21 children attended the first Camp Goodtime, supported by 16 staff. In 2003, 125 children attended Camp, along with approximately 60 staff.

The average age of staff grew from age 18 in 1999 to 23 in 2002.

In 1986, Buddy Counsellors were introduced to Camp Goodtime. These counsellors were survivors of childhood cancer. They supported staff and were friends for campers.

The benefits of inviting a sibling or friend to Camp Goodtime have always been viewed as a necessity, both to the camper and to the invited guest. Siblings and friends of children with cancer can experience enormous stress on their own as a “side affect” of the disease. In response, Camp Goodtime equally serves this important group.

Camp Goodtime helps children develop their personal well being by encouraging independence and confidence. This improves their self-image and allows for a greater sense of control and responsibility in their lives.

Camp Goodtime helps children develop social skills by making friends, learning respect for others, learning to work together and develop a sense of group identity.

Camp Goodtime helps children develop new skills and interests in a fun environment that can continue to grow beyond Camp. Offering a natural setting where outdoor living and respect for the environment is stressed, campers and staff/volunteers are encouraged to share, learn and grow with each other.