Grief Camps for Children, Adolescents and Teens

Now Accepting Applications

NOTE: Please complete and return the entire packet by mail or in person to 1 Frederick Health Way, Frederick MD 21701, or scan and email to griefsupport@frederick.health to be considered as a camper.

Teen: April 2, 2022
Thorpewood Retreat Center, Thurmont MD, grades 9-12 (transportation provided)
Applications due March 18 - space is limited

Weekend: June 10-12, 2022
Skycroft Conference Center, Middletown MD, grades 1-8 (transportation provided)
Applications due May 12 - space is limited

One Day: September 24, 2022
Thorpewood Retreat Center, Thurmont MD, grades 1-8 (transportation provided)
Applications due September 9 - space is limited

Camp Jamie follows FCPS COVID guidelines.

View Our Camp Jamie Brochure

Camp Jamie is a special opportunity for grieving children, adolescents and teens to come together to talk about their feelings related to the death of someone special, and learn coping skills for dealing with those feelings. Camp Jamie is held three times per year. Our teen and weekend sleepover camps are held in the spring. Our one day camp is held in the fall. Each camp provides unique opportunities to express and communicate grief in a healthy and safe environment.

Who are the staff members?
Camp Jamie staff includes professional grief counselors and specially trained volunteers. Children accepted for weekend sleepover camp are paired with an adult volunteer called a Big Buddy, with whom he or she will spend the weekend. Big Buddies provide companionship, support, friendship and lots of individualized attention for their Little Buddy. Our one day camp is facilitated by our grief counselors and trained long time Camp Jamie volunteers.

What are the types of activities?
In addition to grief education and support, campers also enjoy camp activities such as team games, arts/crafts, hiking, campfires with storytellers and pet therapy.

All activities provide plenty of opportunities for the children to express themselves and develop bonds with others. Through interactions with other children and adults, campers learn that they are not alone in their grief.

What is the cost?
Thanks to our generous donors, Camp Jamie is available for Frederick County children and teens at no charge.

To register a child or become a volunteer for Camp Jamie, please download our application. For further questions, call the Hospice office at 240-566-3030. Space is limited, so be sure to register early.