Wapiyapi, meaning "healing" in the Lakota language, was founded in 1998 by a group of medical students in Colorado who wanted to provide a camp experience for children with cancer and their families. Based in Denver, Colorado, the mission of each camp is to provide one week where cancer takes a backseat to childhood and kids and their families can focus on having fun. Ten years later, Wapiyapi has expanded its activities to include family retreats that provide a nurturing, compassionate and understanding environment for families who have children that have been recently diagnosed. Wapiyapi models itself after the Native American idea of community where each person plays an integral role in the well-being of the group. Through their programs Wapiyapi strives to build a community of people who can rely on each others' strength, support and friendship.