Our Mission
Our mission at IWF is to provide a lakeside refuge, a gathering place, away from hospitals, treatment centers, and normal routines. A place to rest and connect as a family, and also connect with other families who have received a childhood cancer diagnosis. We will do this by providing free weekend getaways, water based activities, and community events.
“Wild waters can serve as medicine for caregivers, patient families, and all who are part of a patients’ circle of support”
What We Believe
At IWF we believe in community, nature, and serving the whole family.
Community. Going through the trauma of having a child diagnosed with cancer and the following treatment should never been walked alone. It can be an isolating experience for families and a caregivers during their child’s treatment. It’s our hope that as we provide weekends to help refresh and recharge, we can bring families together and create a community of warriors who understand the struggles and triumphs.
Nature. Studies show that being on, in, near, and even viewing water helps to reduce stress hormones in the brain. When a child is diagnosed that entire family endures chronic stress and anxiety for months to years. It is our goal to provide a place where families can come and reap the benefits of having regular access to water, whether or not they want to get in.
Whole Family. At IWF we believe the whole family deserves and requires time to refresh and recharge. When a child is diagnosed with cancer the entire family is effected and should all receive support and encouragement.
What We Offer
Family Retreat Weekends, alone or with other families
Water based activities such as boating, kayaking, paddle boarding, fishing, swimming.
Community get togethers. Movie nights, roasting s’mores around a fire, play dates, and more.
Support and community events for bereaved families.
