Mikaela Snitzer

United Hebrew Congregation

Mikaela spent her fifth summer at Camp Interlaken in Wisconsin, her home away from home. “Every summer I am lucky enough to water ski, sail, windsurf and more,” she said. 

“Over the years I have created memories that I will cherish forever. I wanted to tie my love for camp into my mitzvah project and decided on Camp Rainbow.”  Daughter of Amy and Brad Snitzer of Chesterfield, Mikaela wanted to contribute to the camp experience for kids who aren’t healthy enough to attend a traditional overnight camp. 

The Camp Rainbow Foundation provides free camping experiences to children undergoing treatment for, and survivors of cancer and blood related diseases and disorders. The recreational and nurturing environment allows the campers and families to create positive memories, build self-esteem, and make new friends while being relieved of the everyday stresses caused by their illness. 

Mikaela contacted Camp Rainbow, presented her ideas to the program director, Marla Drewel-Lynch, and discussed what would be most optimal for the camp’s needs. They decided on a collection of art supplies for duct tape projects and a cookie sale, with all proceeds going to Camp Rainbow. 

“It was a joy working with Mikaela as she totally took charge and did all of the correspondences herself,” said Drewel-Lynch. “It seems like so many teens depend upon their parents to follow up and follow through…Mikaela’s ability to be responsible, reliable, thoughtful while demonstrating kindness with her project was a blessing for all.”

Prior to Mikaela’s mitzvah project, she and her mother took a cookie decorating class from Cookies for a Cure, an organization that sells homemade cookies with all proceeds going to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Mikaela thought it would be a great idea to raise additional money by selling their cookies that were generously donated for resale. Cookies for a Cure agreed that since they both were raising money for cancer, Mikaela could donate the funds raised to Camp Rainbow.

Mikaela sent an email to her family and friends asking them to support her cause. She also set up a table outside her house to sell the cookies on collection day. In the end, she collected 50 rolls of duct tape, 26 boxes of bags, and 15 packs of straws. She also raised $120 from the cookie sale. 

Drewel-Lynch said, “The tape that Mikaela collected included an amazing array of patterns that our campers have enjoyed. All five of our camps used these supplies, as duct tape crafts are very popular and gratifying for our campers.”

A student at Parkway Central Middle School, Mikaela felt a deep sense of pride and accomplishment knowing her efforts would put a smile on a camper’s face. She said, “It felt good knowing I was doing something to help kids who are sick or in remission. It made me feel lucky that I am healthy.”