Member Highlight: Camp Rainbow Gold

Thank you to Elizabeth Lizberg, CEO/Executive Director, for your continued partnership and service to the nonprofit community!

Q: What does a typical week look like for your nonprofit?

​Currently, our days are very different and full of opportunity. The challenges of the past year with COVID-19 has actually provided some unique opportunities for us to step back and get creative. We have taken a big leap of faith to direct our efforts towards hosting camp programs at our new facility, Hidden Paradise. We plan to use the camp this summer, which is two years ahead of our original plans. With that goal in sight, you can come in our office and witness everything from volunteers gathering to plan new activities in new spaces, the medical team discussing how we will stay safe, staff working to support our volunteer efforts and always…lots of laughter amongst the hard work.

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Q: How has your organization evolved over the years?


​Camp Rainbow Gold started in the mid ’80s as a week of camp for a handful of children diagnosed with cancer. By 2007, we were an organization under the umbrella of a parent organization with one staff member providing two camps, a ski day and a hockey night. We have since added four additional camps, a college scholarship program, teen support group, year-round family events and became an independent nonprofit in 2014. Today, we are property owners in Fairfield, Idaho, working to build Idaho’s first medical camp. 

Q: What are the biggest rewards or what do you enjoy most about the work you do?


​Witnessing moments of “wow” happening so often in our organization and programs. These heart-warming, smile-inducing, love-filled “wows” are delivered by the campers and families we serve, but often also by our donors and volunteers. 

Q: Where do you see your nonprofit in 5 years?


​In five years, we will still be relatively new property owners and continuing to develop Hidden Paradise. Our vision is to create and maintain an Idaho medical camp, a welcoming space designed specifically for guests with medical needs to securely connect with nature and each other. We will be hosting camps and summer programs and finally in position to say “yes” to all of the children and families who want to attend. We will no longer have to say we do not have enough room.

Q: Is there something that surprised you about working for a nonprofit?


​I knew that the children and family we serve would have an impact on me. And they have, without a doubt. What I did not anticipate was the blessing of working with an organization that is supported by volunteers. Each day is filled with meeting some of the most passionate, caring and dedicated community members. 

Q: What is one thing you wish your donors/general public knew about nonprofit work?


​We take your investment of time, money and emotions very seriously. You provide us the opportunity to meet our mission and support others. We cannot do this without you.

Q: What is your favorite part of INC membership?


​Training. Connection. Community.

Q: What have you benefited most from INC membership?


​Available resources. When you are not sure about how to do something it is highly likely someone at another one of our nonprofits has already done it. INC connects you with them and many other opportunities.