Camp Hope Helps Kids Struggling with Loss

In September, Bluegrass Care Navigators hosted our annual Camp Hope, a free one-day children’s bereavement camp that is geared toward meeting the grief-care needs of children and youth who are struggling with the loss of a loved one. Camp Hope is designed to help children express their grief in a positive and supportive environment; develop healthy and effective coping strategies in a fun, safe, and supportive setting; and receive the training and tools they need to deal with their loss now and well into the future.

2022 Camp Hope took place in Beattyville at the Kentucky Mountain Mission Youth Haven Camp. Thirty-four children and their guardians from all over Kentucky participated in camp this year. For the first time in two years, we were excited to hold Camp Hope in-person, where kids participated in activities together that included music, memorial rock painting, expressing emotions through art, emoji games to identify feelings, and a memorial campfire to cap off a spectacular day.

Children participating in Camp Hope are supported by a team of caring adults who have years of experience with children’s bereavement. The camp provides a safe place and supportive environment and gives children a healthy start on their journey of bereavement. BCN team members and volunteers enjoyed watching the young campers bond over shared experiences and develop new friendships.

Not only are they guided by the adult camp leaders, but the children participating in Camp Hope have opportunities to help each other through facilitated activities that engage them in supporting their peers who have a shared common experience. Similarly, the adult parents and guardians who attend Camp Hope with their children are able to engage in conversations with each other while learning ways to support their families through the grieving process.

Camp Hope would not be possible without the generous support of our Caring Community and Sponsors. It is because of this generosity that we are able to offer this amazing opportunity at no charge to campers or their guardians. We are truly grateful for the community’s commitment to helping us provide the resources and skills these kids need for the future.