Camp Ta-Kum-Ta is thrilled to announce that Dr. Alan Homans from the University of Vermont Children’s Hospital has accepted the volunteer role of Medical Director for Camp Ta-Kum-Ta effective July 1, 2021. As the previous director of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology at UVM Medical, Dr. Homans is well versed in the often-complex needs of our campers and their families.
“Dr Alan Homans has been providing care to the children of Ta-Kum-Ta for many years,” said Patrick Gallivan, Camp Director, “his new role as Camp Ta-Kum-Ta’s Medical Director is a natural extension of his good work and understanding of the holistic role that Camp provides to the overall healing experience of both our children and their families. We couldn’t be happier to be welcoming him to the team and this important role.”
This fall after a 30+ year career in pediatric oncology, Dr. Homans will retire from his role with UVM Pediatric Hematology/Oncology. He will continue to work several hours per week in addition to his appointment as a Professor of Pediatrics for The Robert Larner, M.D. College of Medicine at UVM.
“I'm looking forward to working with the staff at Camp Ta-Kum-Ta during this challenging time and hope we can all be together, safely, soon!” said Dr. Homans.
When the pandemic began in 2020, Dr. Homans was a critical partner with Camp Ta-Kum-Ta as they navigated decisions related to in-person vs. virtual programs. As a member of Camp’s Wellness and Health Advisory Team, he was instrumental in the development and implementation of COVID protocols and procedures that kept both their children, families, volunteers and staff safe. Although Camp’s programs remain virtual at this time, Dr. Homans will be instrumental in helping Camp safely reopen once vaccinations for children are available.
Camp Ta-Kum-Ta provides year-round programs for children who have or have had cancer, and their families. We are entirely supported through donations from the community, and there is never a charge to the camper or their family. For more information about Camp Ta-Kum-Ta’s programs, contact Camp’s Executive Director Dennis P. DePaul at (802) 578- 2275 or email at [email protected] or visit our website at www.takumta.org.