Families spent June 25–28 at Camp Buckner for the Faith Family Retreat in partnership with Camp Erin. This weekend focused on healing, support and family time for those walking through grief. The retreat welcomed 18 families, including 34 children, along with 10 dedicated volunteers.
During the four-day getaway, families took part in grief support sessions, group activities and classic camp fun. Campers enjoyed swimming, fishing, canoeing, kayaking and plenty of time to relax and enjoy being together.
Throughout the weekend, children and families explored grief through creative activities designed to help them express emotions and honor loved ones. Activities included Family Grief Maps, “What You Don’t See,” remembrance bracelets, sand art, remembrance kites, grief walks, letter writing and a paper lantern release.
Children participated in age-based groups with activities tailored to meet them where they were, giving both younger and older campers space to share and process their grief.
The retreat was made possible through the support of several partners, including Eluna/Camp Erin, Wellspring Counseling Center and Project Linus. Kerri Newman led grief programming throughout the retreat, while Elise Neal, Presbyterian Village North as Associate Director of Spiritual Life, provided onsite chaplaincy support. Project Linus also gifted custom handmade blankets to children attending camp for the first time, offering an added source of comfort.
The weekend was a great success, providing families with a space to remember loved ones, share their stories and support one another.
