Camp Ray of Hope

Camp Ray of Hope - a unique state wide retreat for grieving families is now accepting registrations for the 2016 fall session which runs September 23-25, 2016 and will be held this year at Pine Tree Camp in Rome, Maine.

If you are the parent of young children whose close friend or family member has died you have, without a doubt struggled with how to support your children through that difficult time. Perhaps you lack confidence in knowing the right answers to a child’s hard questions? Have you wondered if you are addressing all their needs in the most effective ways? Do you worry that you are missing important cues from your children? On top of all that you are faced with your own overwhelming feelings of grief. We would like you to know these feelings are normal.

Camp Ray of Hope was first offered by Hospice Volunteers of Waterville Area in 1995 and continues to be the only one of its kind in Maine. The retreat provides support to families with dependent children ages 3-18 years and young adults 18-25. You and your family will be provided the opportunity to network with other people from throughout the state of Maine who are also in the midst of transition from loss by death. Most of the volunteers have experienced profound loss at one time or another and know how to embrace your pain effectively. They are not afraid to talk about their loss or to listen to your stories. Children and adults participate with their peers in support groups and workshops that encourage healthy outlets and self care with trained support group facilitators.

Pine Tree Camp’s beautiful 285-acre facility with a network of accessible nature trails and more than a mile of waterfront is located on beautiful North Pond. The camper cabins are beautiful, inviting spaces with heat and bathrooms in the cabins. There is a welcome center, family cabins, wellness center, tree house, playground, recreation hall, athletic field and so much more.
The cost for the weekend is $60.00 per person, $120.00 for a family of two or $180 for a family of three or more. The fee includes lodging, meals and programs. If you choose not to spend the night the fee for the weekend is $40 per person, $70 for a family of two or $100 for a family of three or more. Individuals under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Registration is required. Scholarships are available. Call (207) 873-3615, ext. 19 or e-mail Jillian Roy at jroy@hvwa.org with questions or to request a brochure and registration form. Visit our web site at: www.hvwa.org