Courageous Kids

Elementary, Middle, & High School Age

August 6-9, 2013
Kiwanis Sky Camp, Fall Creek Reservoir

The Courageous Kids Camp is a unique 4-day annual event providing an opportunity for children and teens who have experienced a death in their families. The residential summer camp accommodates about 45 young people (ages 6 to 18) with a ratio of almost one volunteer for each camper. It is located at the beautiful Kiwanis Sky Camp on the Fall Creek Reservoir, Lane County, Oregon.

Professionals provide therapeutic activities in art, music, sand play, story telling, drama and adventure group challenges in addition to the swimming, fun and play. The first two days focus on trust and relationship building. Usually by the third day some of the youth may reach a degree of internal readiness that opens them for a significant break-through in their grieving process.

Some kids discover they can allow themselves to experience the intenseness of grief and still have permission to play. Some begin to talk about the death of their loved one for the first time. Many feel empowered to make the huge adjustments required of them. Many also feel inspired to return later as volunteers and all emphasize the importance of being with other kids who have had deaths in their families. The fourth day is needed for closure and good-byes. Campers and staff share what they have learned about themselves, grief and life that they can take with them.

The Elementary, Middle and High School age groups each have separate programs and activities. The teen schedule allows for late nights and sleep ins. Teens will also enjoy their day away from camp at the Eugene Ropes Course.

There is no fee for camp. We are supported by donations. Any contribution towards the cost of $250 per child is greatly appreciated.

Courageous Kids is a grief support program for youth and their families, for whom a loved one has died. We have provided camp and support groups for grieving children since 1995.

Camp Evaluations

The effect that camp has on the kids is measured by a survey completed by families before and after camp.  The results are quite positive: decreases in angry behavior, sleeping difficulties, and anxious behavior have been reported by parents.  Read the past two years' evaluations:

CK Camp Evaluation 2012
CK Camp Evaluation 2011