Harbor Hospice has been offering Camp Courage for 24 years as a way to help children and their families following the death of a loved one. The emotions of grief can be overwhelming and isolating for children who have not yet developed the verbal and emotional skills to navigate the grief process.
Children grieve differently than adults and need time to just “be kids” as well as time to honor and remember their loved one. Kids often feel alone in their grief and thrive when able to connect with others who understand their unique experience.
Harbor Hospice staff and trained volunteers create a safe, stable environment for children to explore and express their grief, remember their loved one, and connect with others who have experienced a death. Children participate in traditional camp activities such as swimming, fishing, hiking, and campfires along with grief-tailored activities that teach healthy coping skills.
Camp Courage, an overnight camping experience for children ages 6-12 and teens 15-19, is held at Pioneer Trails on Big Blue Lake in Muskegon County beginning Friday, June 23, 2017 at 10:00 am through Sunday, June 25, 2017 at 2:00 pm. Application deadline is May 31, 2017. The only cost for camp is a one-time $10 registration fee. For more information or to register, contact Stephanie Weesies or Melanie Dekkers at 231.728.3442 or 800.497.9559 or email info@HarborHospiceMI.org or visit our website at HarborHospiceMI.org.