As parents and their children are finalizing plans for summer, keep Camp Love 'n Loss in mind for those who are dealing with the loss of a loved one.

On August 7, youth ages 6-13 are invited to gather at the Sterling-Rock Falls Family YMCA for an annual youth bereavement camp hosted by Hospice of the Rock River Valley (HRRV).

Camp Love 'n Loss is led by trained, experienced counselors and allows youth to learn about grief and share their loss with members of their peer group.

"By attending Camp Love 'n Loss, youth will see that they are not alone in their feelings," said HRRV bereavement coordinator Chris Larson.

"Communication with other youth and camp counselors should assist them in their healing journey," she said.

This free daycamp experience combines outdoor activities, movies, crafts and swimming to create a safe environment in which youth can identify feelings of grief, loss and healing.

Larson explains that youth react differently to grief than adults, and camp surrounds youth with understanding counselors who allow them to mourn.

Grieving youth will exhibit a variety of characteristics including unusual behavior, anxiety or anger, changed eating patterns, and lack of concentration. These are some of the more common reactions to a significant loss that parents, grandparents, guardians or other family members can identify.

Camp applications are due Aug. 1, 2008 and are available online (www.hospicerockriver.org) or by calling HRRV at (815) 288-3673.

Camp Love 'n Loss is offered at no cost to participants. Sponsors of the program include United Way of Whiteside County, United Way of Lee County, and the Sterling-Rock Falls Family YMCA.

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