Hendrick Hospice Care’s Camp Courage helps children grow brave and courageous

Last week, more than 100 children and teens from across the Big Country participated in Hendrick Hospice Care’s Camp Courage. This four-day, three-night camp, designed for children suffering a loss of a loved one through death, divorce or other painful transition, combines traditional camp activities with grief education.

“The greatest thing about camp is how you see the kiddos grow throughout the week,” said Brandy Chalmers, grief counselor and children’s program coordinator for Hendrick Hospice Care. “The majority of the campers arrive shy and reserved but grow brave throughout the course of the camp and begin to show their true selves.”

Grief professionals and trained volunteers work to give children an outlet for unexpressed emotions, to help them develop coping skills and to encourage connections with other children who have suffered similar losses.

“The campers are able to build confidence and self-esteem and leave with healthy coping skills to better deal with their grief,” said Chalmers. “Camp Courage gives children a safe place to heal.”