Losing someone you love is one of the hardest things you can go through. At Camp Good Grief, run by East End Hospice, kids who have lost a parent, sibling, or a close family member get the chance to just be kids again. For one week, they laugh, talk, cry, and connect with others who truly get what they’re feeling – because they’ve been through it too. 

Camp Good Grief, which is held in Center Moriches at Camp Pa-Qua-Tuck, offers structured days where the children get to participate in art therapy, music therapy, yoga, lunch, and group therapy. Aside from the structured activities the children are able to choose their own activities such as playing on the playground, arts and crafts, fishing, and swimming in the pool.

Sophomores Ellie Mett and Amanda Michne volunteer at the camp, along with many other WHB students. Ellie volunteered for the first time last year as a camp counselor because she wanted to form connections with the campers. She said, “I had always wanted to become a counselor because I want to be a role model for these kids.” She also adds that she enjoys being apart of their healing journey and being someone the kids can talk to and be themselves around.  Ellie will be volunteering again this summer.

Amanda said, “Group therapy is a really good resource for the kids at camp. They are separated by age and put into groups that one to two therapists and counselors. This is a good time for the kids to grieve together and reflect on memories with their loved ones that have passed.” 

On the last day of camp, there is a carnival where there is a dunk tank, ice cream, and blow up bouncy houses. 

Camp Good Grief provides a safe, supportive space for children to heal and grow after experiencing loss. Through shared experiences, therapeutic activities, and caring volunteers like Ellie and Amanda, the camp helps children rediscover joy, build new relationships, and remember they’re not alone. 

For more information visit: eehcampgoodgrief.org