Can my child come to camp right after the death?
Yes, however, if it has been less than a month since the death occurred please contact the Executive Director at 218-372-8420 for more information.
Can my child come to camp if it's been more than a year since the death?
Yes. We've had many campers attend near the one year anniversary and several who attend two, three or five years after; there is no time limit on grief.
Can I volunteer while my child is at camp?
No. Our camp sessions are designed specifically so children will have an opportunity to express their grief with other children who are going through the same types of experiences. We invite you to attend our Family Grief Connections program to meet others who are raising a grieving child; share and support each other with the facilitation of a trained children's grief professional. We would be happy to have you as a volunteer before or after your children have attended.
Is there a charge?
Hearts of Hope camp, Hearts of Hope teen retreat and Family Grief Connection are all provided at no charge to participants thanks to the generosity of our Memorial Program participants, members of the funeral industry and our continued support from individual donors. We do ask for a refundable $50 deposit to reserve a spot.
What should I pack?
A complete packet of information will be sent out to families three weeks prior to the camp session. It will include directions, discounted hotels nearby, packing list, and contact information.
What time does camp start and end?
Campers and teens are asked to be to the camp between 10:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. on Saturday morning. The Family Grief Connection program begins at 11:30 a.m. Family members are asked to return to camp on Sunday morning between 10:45 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. for our closing ceremony followed by lunch. Families are packed and on the road usually by 2:00 p.m. on Sunday.
Can my child come back to camp?
Yes, because of the nature of children’s grief, their grief will typically surge as they move into different developmental stages or as anniversary or trigger events occur. We allow a limited number of returning campers at each session however in order to keep the camp free for all those coming for the first time we do charge a small fee. The Returning Camper application can be found on the Camps tab drop down menu under Applications.
How does this camp help my child?
One of the most significant aspects of your child attending camp is their opportunity to meet other kids their age who are going through a similar experience. To know they are not the only kid whose mom died in a car accident, or whose grandpa had died from cancer, or whose dad completed suicide gives them a connection of support and understanding that their classmates, neighbors or other family members may not be able to provide. Having a chance to be away from the adults in their life, to goof off and giggle, or cry and be angry without worrying about upsetting the adults they love helps them express these emotions they may otherwise suppress.
Do I need a funeral director to submit an application?
No, it is not a requirement, but strongly recommended. Funeral Directors can assist families in many ways following the funeral service, helping to refer families to our programs is part of their on-going service to the families they serve.
Please contact us if you did not find the answer to your question(s) here.