Camp Sea Star Welcomes Bereaved Children for Adventure Counseling Event Allows Safe Haven for Children To Express Feelings 
Hope, healing and fun was the weekend theme for the 38 children in attendance at Hospice of Palm Beach County’s 12th Annual Camp Sea Star weekend. The annual camp, which takes place at the Everglades Youth Camp, is designed to help children and teens deal with the loss of a loved one. 
The fun-filled camp utilizes adventure counseling techniques which help to build confidence and trust, and also allow for the children to share their feelings in a non-threatening environment. “Children and teens express their feelings in a different manner than adults do,” said Regina Di Pietro, Director of Supportive Services for Hospice of Palm Beach County. “This camp offers them the opportunity to bond with others who are experiencing the same feelings while helping them to cope.” 
The annual camp, which has helped hundreds of children and teens over the years, is offered to campers free of charge. Activities include: canoeing, dancing, karaoke, arts and crafts as well as many team-building activities. The finale of the weekend is a drum circle, which is truly one of the most moving experiences of the weekend.
“We feel this weekend can be a significant milestone as many of the children have gone through our bereavement services. The adventure counseling can help them to identify ways to cope with their feelings, improve their self-esteem, and recognize ways to validate their feelings. Many of the children leave with new friends!” said Di Pietro.
To learn more about the programs and services Hospice of Palm Beach County’s John J. Brogan Bereavement Center offers to families in the Palm Beach County community, please call (561) 227-5175.