Ohio’s Hospice Pathways of Hope^SM Grief Counseling Center held Camp Pathways, at the Camp Joy Outdoor Education Center in Warren County in June, as staff and volunteers, along with campers, found ways to beat the sizzling heat. 

The camp is a unique experience for children and teens ages 7-17 who have experienced the death of a parent, sibling, or significant loved one and are actively grieving. Camp is designed for children and teens to express their feelings of grief in a safe and fun environment. Bereavement counseling professionals provide support and education with expertise in serving grieving children, adolescents and adults. 

Bereavement Counseling Professional, Lisa Conn, said that the camp was well attended. 

“There were 35 children that attended camp for one extended day this year,” Conn said. “We also had 31 volunteers and 14 staff members in attendance. We had two teen groups and a record number of teens attending.” 

The blazing heat did not damper the spirits of the attendees, as Conn mentioned a record heat wave for the camp that reached 98 degrees with a heat index over 100. 

Activities included: group support time, swimming, fishing, canoeing, nature center, high ropes course, climbing wall, slip ‘n slide, campfire, memorial service, s’mores, and a wish ceremony. 

“Many campers reported that the slip ‘n slide and swimming were their favorite activities this year,” Conn said.