About COSI

Children's Oncology Services, Inc. (COSI) is a not for profit corporation, qualified for charitable purposes under Section 501(c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code. COSI is dedicated to providing safe, fun, and exciting programs and experiences to children and adolescents with cancer and leukemia.  The kids who participate are normal kids living life to the fullest under extraordinary circumstances.  Our largest program, the One Step At A Time summer camp, is dedicated to the principle that children with cancer and leukemia, those still under going treatment and those whose treatment has ended, can benefit from the summer camp experience in the same manor that any child can.  COSI also operates various scholarships funds for children with cancer.

The One Step At A Time programs use the principle of volunteerism.  All the administrative staff, counselors, doctors, nurses and medical technicians are volunteers.  No one receives any remuneration.  Additionally, the camp tuition charges for the children are based upon the family's own assessment of their ability to pay and often are waived, in part or totally,. (Tuition charges are set at just a fraction of the actual cost.) The camps are open to any child with cancer or leukemia, from Illinois, northern Indiana or Wisconsin.  The status of the child's therapy does not influence the patient's eligibility. Any patients, whether they are currently undergoing treatment or off therapy for any length of time, as well as those patients where no further therapy is available and they are not expected to survive can attend.  All that is required is that the child be well enough to have a reasonable chance of enjoying himself.  These children are "normal children with special problems".  The summer camp allows children and adolescents with cancer and leukemia a normal and fun summer experience where they can build mental and physical strength through challenging activities, as well as bonds of friendship with many who are undergoing similar experiences.

The One Step At A Time summer and winter camp programs have grown dramatically and expanded their vision since their inception.  They started as an outgrowth from the Ronald McDonald House, but now are operated separately by COSI.