Camp Encouragement supports and nurtures children who are grieving the loss of a loved one and provides a place to heal, grow and live a more fulfilling life. We envision a world where grieving children are not forgotten or left to grieve alone and are supported by a community that appreciates them.
2024 EARLY REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN
Please check our Jovonne’s Healing Center and Healing Connections programs for continued support.
Programs that matter
Professional Counseling
First and foremost, Camp Encouragement is a place where children will have access to professionals who understand them and are equipped to help them through this difficult time in their lives. Kia Medley-Stephens leads our counseling program. Kia is a licensed therapist and counselor who works with children, adolescents, and adults in a variety of settings. All of the counselors work with our campers in an accepting and relaxed manner; they help the children feel welcome, safe, and heard.
Innovative Offerings
At this year's Camp Encouragement, we had an extraordinary time! Board Member and local artist, Brian Halloran, brought an exciting twist to the activities. He guided campers in creating their own Mobile Sculptures using items they collected on a neighborhood walk. Campers not only had a blast but also made a positive impact on the local community by picking up garbage and incorporating it into their artwork. It was a unique way to unleash their creativity while caring for the environment!
Want to stay up do date on our creative plans for this year? Subscribe below to our monthly newsletter!
With an Artistic Touch
Each year we are joined by Margie Wainfan, Executive Director of The Art Barn Foundation.
Margie is an artist and educator who has taught art to children and families in a variety of settings - from Family Programs at The Whitney Museum and School Programs at The Guggenheim in NYC.
Under her guidance, children discovered new ways to engage with art history, artists, and art making - while exploring their own creative process.
Program Impact
Experience
Camp Encouragement is a place where children who have been affected by the loss of a loved one can come to be with other children in similar situations, enabling them to engage and develop friendships. Over 90% of our children rated their Camp Encouragement experience a 10!
Outlook
100% of parents have reported that their child had a much better attitude and outlook after attending Camp Encouragement. These children are grateful to have a place where they can share how they feel about the loss of someone important in their lives and feel supported and not alone.
Communication
Most of the children who have attended Camp Encouragement found it much easier to talk about the death of their loved one while attending our camp. A strong percentage of our parents and kids show interest in monthly get-togethers and ongoing support groups.
A no-cost program for grieving children who have experienced the loss of a loved one. Our one-week, virtual summer camp helps to reframe the experience of grief and encourages kids to develop the coping skills to move forward with their lives.