Registration is now open for the fall camp


Jacksonville, FL (August 2, 2018) -- Grieving the death of a loved one is difficult, especially for a child. Grieving children are likely to feel different and alone.

On Sept. 7-9, 2018, Community Hospice & Palliative Care® is hosting its fall Camp Healing Powers® at the Marywood Retreat and Conference Center in northern St. Johns County. The registration deadline is Aug. 25, 2018.

The camp’s mission is a critical one. “We connect grieving children and teens with other grievers to gain support, increase comfort in talking about loss and learn valuable coping skills,” said bereavement counselor and Camp Healing Powers® Director Katie McConnell.

Thanks to a stellar network of volunteers, counselors and donors, Camp Healing Powers® has continued to thrive over the last 20 years. It is a testament to the mission that it not only leaves an imprint on the children who attend -- some even return to give back.

Ashley attended Camp Healing Powers® after the sudden loss of her father in 2009 at age 13. Her journey brought her full circle when she volunteered to lead young girls coping with loss at a recent camp. “I really liked being able to help, to see the kids and be a part of the camp again, even if it was from a whole different perspective,” she said. “It was heartwarming to be there for someone and to be able to connect because you understand.”

The camp has made a lasting impact on more than a thousand children in the community ages seven to 17 by helping them identify and express their feelings during the grief journey. Grief and bereavement counselors lead camp activities that give kids the tools to manage their grief.

“We connect grieving children and teens with other grievers to gain support, increase comfort in talking about loss and learn valuable coping skills,” said bereavement counselor and Camp Healing Powers® Director Katie McConnell.

Camp eligibility is as follows:

  • The death has occurred at least three months before the camp date, but no longer than two years.
  • A $35 deposit reserves a camper's space and is returned upon completion of camp.
  • Pre-camp assessments are necessary for all camp attendees. 

The community’s legacy of outstanding support remains enthusiastic: Camp Healing Powers® recently received a generous donation of $18,000 to continue its meaningful work. This kind of ongoing community compassion allows children to find comfort after the loss of a loved one and bond with other children in a safe space who are facing the same challenges. This experience can enrich their lives for years to come.

“Eight months after the passing of my dad, I attended Camp Healing Powers,” said Season, who attended the camp in 2012. “At first, I was nervous and didn’t know what to expect, but the counselors helped me feel less anxious. I opened up once I realized everyone around me was just like me and had lost someone special. I enjoyed the craft activities and meal time with the other campers.”

Space is limited. Please call 904.407.6222 to schedule an appointment for a camp assessment, or visit https://www.communityhospice.com/events/camp-healing-powers-fall-2018/ for more information.

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About Community Hospice & Palliative Care

Established in 1979, Community Hospice & Palliative Care is an innovative national leader in palliative and hospice care, as well as providing programs and services to meet the diverse needs of the communities it serves. During its 39-year history, Community Hospice & Palliative Care has served nearly 200,000 adults and children in Baker, Clay, Duval, Nassau and St. Johns counties, and recently expanded its service area to include 11 counties in north-central Florida. Through the support of more than 900 employees and 1,000 volunteers, the organization helps approximately 1,600 patients per day to live better with advanced illness – at home, in long-term care and assisted living facilities, in hospitals and at its eight inpatient care centers. The organization is committed to improving the quality of life for patients and their families and to be the compassionate guide for end-of-life care in our communities. No one is ever denied care due to an inability to pay. To learn more about the support and services of Community Hospice & Palliative Care, visit CommunityHospice.com.