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The Cavett Kids Story

What started as a dream by founder Danny Cavett, has evolved into eight camps serving children and youth with various life-threatening and chronic illnesses. Each year, the lives of 20,000 children and their families are enhanced by our annual camps and programs.

Since 1997 Cavett Kids has provided FREE camps, programs, and support for children and youth battling life-threatening illnesses. We strive to develop Character, Coping and Connection while improving the lives of over 20,000 children each year and providing a safe place for children to feel "normal" and accepted while also receiving life-saving medical care.

Read More about Our History 

 

Our Team

Featured
Ashley Simpson, Executive Director
Ashley Simpson, Executive Director

After finishing a dual Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology and Art Therapy at Southwestern College in Santa Fe, New Mexico I began my journey with Cavett Kids in the spring of 2012 when I joined the organization as an Intern providing Art Therapy services through our Diversionary Play program. My passion for the organization quickly grew as I began getting to know these amazing Cavett Kids. Fast forward to February 2018 when I moved into the role of Executive Director and my heart for these amazing kids has only grown deeper. When you invest not just your dollars but your time and energy in these children it’s a truly life-changing experience for both. I’m blessed to be part of the Cavett Kids Family and I hope you will be, too.

Neil Tate, Director of Camps and Programs
Neil Tate, Director of Camps and Programs

I joined the Cavett Kids Team as the Camp Director in January of 2019. Before joining the Cavett Kids Foundation, I worked with young people at camps and after school programs across Tennessee, Oklahoma, and Arizona. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Recreation and Sports Management from the University of Tennessee-Knoxville and a Master’s Degree in Nonprofit Leadership from Oklahoma City University. I am thrilled to be working with the campers that Cavett Kids serves and am passionate about making camp opportunities available to all young people.

Seasonal Jobs & Internships
Seasonal Jobs & Internships

The Cavett Kids Foundation offers seasonal, part-time paid positions including a Camps & Program Assistant as well as a Visual Marketing Assistant. For more information and details on how to apply please contact info@cavettkids.org. Cavett Kids also offers (unpaid) seasonal internship experiences that may fulfill a course credit. Internships are aimed to enhance your knowledge of the nonprofit sector, gain knowledge in the areas of camps and special events planning, as well as broaden your experience in working with kids and youth battling health-related medical challenges.  For more information, please contact info@cavettkids.org.

Board Officers & Directors
Board Officers & Directors

Tom Duhon, President

Erin Walker, Vice President

Kandi Link, Treasurer

Dr. Liz McCabe, Secretary

Members:
Eric Cavett, Tink Collins, Jamie Kilpatrick, Vanessa Maese, Liz Pace, Dr. Charlie Sperrazza

Emeritus Members:
Danny Cavett, Larry Cavett, Scott Cavett

Cavett Advocate Board
Cavett Advocate Board

CAB is a non-governing, hands-on group who chair our two major fundraisers, serve at various camps and programs, and works to increase community awareness, media spotlights and fundraising opportunities to further the mission of Cavett Kids.

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2024 Leadership Team: Brittany Mullens, Chelsea Mortazavi, Dayna Reust, Isabel King & Tobi Gordon

2024 Members: Averie Vardaman, Autumn Morton, Bree Jameson, Brooklynn Nichols, Emily Nash, Jamie Knisley, Jenny Beard, Jenn McKenzie, Katie Niblett, Lauren Riepl, Meghan Hilterbrand, Roselyn Chama, Stephanie Anderson, Tayler Powell, Tom Duhon

Apply for the Cavett Advocate Board

Join the Cavett Advocate Board

The Cavett Kids Foundation accepts applications for the Cavett Advocate Board each year from December through January. Applications close January 31st every year. It is simple to apply! Just download and complete the application below by the deadline. Applications should be submitted to info@cavettkids.org to be considered for membership. Applicants should be ages 21+ to apply. Meetings are on Tuesday evenings and happen bimonthly starting in February.

The Furry Staff

Featured
Finn, Therapy Dog & Official Furry Staff Member
Finn, Therapy Dog & Official Furry Staff Member

I’m a cuddly Golden Retriever and certified Therapy Dog working with the Cavett Kids Foundation three days a week since August of 2015. I was born on June 16th, 2014 in Bowie, Texas at Reading Retrievers. I really love my job and enjoy a good scratch! When I’m not bringing smiles to the kiddos I enjoy watching the OKC Thunder, playing fetch, riding in our boat and swimming no matter what temperature it is outside.

Andy, Therapy Dog, Finn’s Little Sister
Andy, Therapy Dog, Finn’s Little Sister

I’m a fluffy girl Golden Retriever and certified Therapy Dog working with Cavett Kids. I was born on October 26, 2017 at Reading Retrievers in Bowie, TX. I love to steal my brother Finn’s toys, eat treats, take naps, swim and get belly rubs! My nickname is “Chunky Monkey” because I really, really love treats!

Willard, Therapy Dog
Willard, Therapy Dog

I’m a mix-breed rescue dog with the best personality around. I love belly scratches, car rides, adventures and I especially love those tasty animal crackers! I enjoy visiting the kids at the Jimmy Everest Center for Cancer & Blood Disorders and I also love visiting the campers at Camp Cavett. Those Cavett Kids give me the best hugs!