By Sabrina Zerrade, Volunteer and Scholarship Recipient —

When I was two years old, I was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia, but I am now happy to say I am fifteen years in remission.

I am a sophomore at the University of Washington studying Applied and Computational Mathematical Sciences, a degree focusing on applying math and computer science to solve practical problems in the real world. Last year I was selected to receive a Camp Rainbow Gold Scholarship.

While I’m still unsure about my future career, I am especially interested in ecology and would like a career in conservation or environmental restoration. As human activity and climate change threaten the world around us, I believe that protecting the environment and the living things within it should be one of our top priorities. I hope that through my education I can develop the skills that allow me to tackle these problems and make a positive difference in the world.

The Camp Rainbow Gold scholarship program is designed to support former campers from Camp Rainbow Gold in furthering their education. As part of the scholarship, recipients volunteer with the organization each semester. Although in-person camp was cancelled this year due to COVID-19, I was still able to participate with virtual camp, helping design activities that kids and their families could do at home. It felt nice to help pass on the wonderful experience I had at camp to another generation of campers. In addition, I volunteered at the office in Boise assisting with administrative tasks like addressing letters. The staff at Camp Rainbow Gold have been helpful and supportive, and I appreciated the chance to get involved.

The Camp Rainbow Gold scholarship has reduced the cost of college for me and my family, helping me to obtain my education and work towards my goals. I appreciate that Camp Rainbow Gold has continued to support me from my childhood until now and am glad to have a scholarship that is designed to recognize cancer survivors and their families. Volunteering with Camp Rainbow Gold has been a chance to reconnect with this part of my past and give back to kids and families in similar situations. I am grateful for the opportunity that has been given to me to pursue higher education and for the assistance of the Camp Rainbow Gold staff and the scholarship program and encourage others to take advantage of this great program.