Every August, something extraordinary happens in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley. For one magical week, the Northern Virginia 4-H Center in beautiful Front Royal, Virginia, becomes home to Camp Fantastic — Special Love’s signature program for children with cancer, ages 7–17. 

This year, more than 70 campers joined us, along with over 50 dedicated medical professionals from our partners at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and more than 50 enthusiastic volunteers. Together, we created a safe, joyful, and unforgettable experience — completely free for every camper, thanks to the incredible generosity of our donors and community partners. Many of our meals were donated, and every act of kindness helped make the week possible. 

A Week of Superheroes

Our 2025 theme was Superheroes, and every day brought a new surprise. Whether it was a visit from a Star Wars character, a counselor dressed as Superman or Wonder Woman serving lunch, or a spontaneous dance party, the magic never stopped. We celebrated Farm Day on Wednesday, marveled at the talent show on Thursday night, and ended the week with our beloved graduation and dance on Friday. 

The Campfire Connection

Each night, we gathered around the campfire to sing songs, share stories, and give our nature reports — a playful recap of the day’s wildlife sightings. It was a time to slow down, reflect, and feel the warmth of being surrounded by friends. 

Activities That Inspire Confidence

Our days were filled with horseback riding, archery, fishing, swimming, crafts, and moments of pure relaxation. We saw hesitant campers arrive unsure about the week ahead — only to leave wishing camp could last forever. Laughter echoed through the hills, friendships bloomed, and courage grew quietly in the background. 

A Week That Lasts All Year
We left camp filled with hope, renewed joy, and the comfort of knowing that these connections don’t end when the buses pull away. For our campers, the memories of Camp Fantastic are a reminder all year long that they are strong, loved, and never alone. 

So Many to People and Organizations to Thank 

Special Love would like to acknowledge our many sponsors that make this week possible including the Amey Family, the James K. Wright Foundation, the Fantastic Cancer Camp Fund, the team from Deloitte, the Alexander and Margaret Stewart Trust, the Richmond Shag Club, the American Woodmark Foundation, the Marshall and Kacey Jenkins Family, Blacksburg Battles Cancer, Abby’s Legacy Foundation, Care Camps Foundation, Celebration of Hope, and Kay’s Foundation Helping Kids with Cancer. We’d also like to thank 501st Legion, Apple House Catering, Bite Me Cancer, Culpeper County (VA) Fire and Rescue Squad, Clay Bears, Culpeper Police Department, Chester Gap Volunteer Fire Department, Glenn Consor, Victor Orekhov & Hitt Construction, McDonald’s (Nerangis Corporation), Rappahannock Electrical Cooperative, Reston Limousine, Rotary Club of Culpeper, Rotary Club of Front Royal, Rotary Club of Winchester, Shenandoah Valley Discovery Museum, Silent Events, Thermo-Fisher.

Not Just Camp

Camp Fantastic isn’t just a camp — it’s a lifeline. For one week, children who have faced unthinkable challenges get to be kids again. They laugh, they play, and they discover they are capable of so much more than they imagined. 

Whether you gave this year, volunteered, or helped spread the word, you’ve become part of our community that wraps its arms around children and families when they needed it most. Thank you to everyone who helped make this week happen.  We couldn’t have done this without you.

Find even more great photos from this year’s Camp Fantastic on our Facebook page here!