Camp Trios Returns in 2026 to Support Youth Living with Type 1 Diabetes

Camp Trios, a three-day summer camp program for children diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, will be held July 21–23, 2026, at the Southridge Sports and Events Complex.

Registration is now open for children ages 6–14 and teen mentors ages 15–18. The program, the first of its kind in the Tri-Cities, focuses on helping participants better understand their diagnosis while developing the skills and confidence needed to manage diabetes without limiting their daily lives.

At Trios Health, supporting children newly diagnosed with diabetes extends beyond clinical care. The organization emphasizes education and peer connection to help young patients regain a sense of normalcy during the early stages of diagnosis. According to Trios’ Interim Director of Diabetes and Nutrition Education, children often experience feelings of uncertainty, fear, and limitation following diagnosis, making early intervention and support essential.

“One of the most impactful approaches is creating an environment where children can connect with peers who are successfully managing diabetes,” said Jack Janezic, Assistant Administrator at Trios Health. “Seeing other children participate in everyday activities, whether playing, eating, or socializing, helps reinforce that diabetes does not define or limit their potential. It becomes a meaningful turning point in how they view their condition.”

Camp Trios will run daily from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and will include educational programming, nutritious meals and snacks, and structured physical activities. Licensed physicians and trained healthcare professionals will be on-site throughout the duration of the camp.

Originally established in 2012 as Camp KGH, the program has expanded from approximately 20 participants in its first year to more than 50 campers annually.

Additional information, including registration links in English and Spanish, is available at: https://www.trioshealth.org/camp-trios

The camp is designed to promote positive health outcomes by equipping participants with practical diabetes management tools in a supportive, engaging environment. Campers have the opportunity to build peer relationships, learn from experienced mentors, and gain confidence in managing their condition.

Use of the Southridge Sports and Events Complex has been generously donated by the City of Kennewick. Trios Health medical staff and employees volunteer their time to support the program.

About Trios Health: Trios Health, a UW Medicine Community Health Partner, operates a 111-bed hospital on its Southridge campus in Kennewick. Trios Medical Group serves a growing medical staff network of providers throughout the Tri-Cities and includes practices and services at 10 Care Centers and one Urgent Care Center. Our health system, established in 1952, is a sister facility to Lourdes Health in Pasco. For more information, visit us at www.TriosHealth.org or follow us on Facebook.

###