jhcampers have lots of fun and games over the course of the weekend. Depending on the location, there are climbing walls, zip-lines, surfing, basketball, soccer, swimming pools, lakes, and other fun and games.

Campers are assigned 'Bigs.' Bigs are adults who act as chaperones to the campers, to ensure that they have access to all the camp resources. Most importantly, Bigs care. They are a shoulder to lean on, a listening and non-judgmental ear, and a reminder to jhcampers of their incredible potential for joy and happiness.

Four times over the weekends, jhcampers and Bigs split into what are called simply, Circles. These Circles are led by professional grief therapists, and provide an opportunity for more detailed discussions about grieving the loss of their loved one. We’ll talk about the loved one that died, how the jhcamper’s lives are today – what’s great, what’s not so great, and what hopes the jhcampers have for their future. Through these breakthrough conversations, jhcampers gain insight into the process of grieving, and they connect with their individual potential for joy and happiness in their lives to come. Arts and crafts make the experience even richer.

Saturday night may start off with karaoke, or some other fun activity. But the highlight is what is called The Fire. As a group, we build a bon-fire, roast marshmallows, and sing camp songs, laugh, and play. We also take time to dedicate The Fire to the legacy and memory of those who have died. The Fire reminds us all of the passion and love we have for our loved ones, and that this fire exists within us at all times.

On Sunday, jhcamp concludes with the Memorial. Individuals and groups dedicate songs, poems, dances, art, and spoken word to the memory of their loved ones. We honor the lives and legacies of our loved ones, and remind ourselves that they live today, through our actions.

Dowload a brochure if you want to take some time to think about it!

jhcamp is located in San Diego, CA. If you are on the East Coast, we encourage you to consider Comfort Zone Camp, located in Richmond, VA.