CHP conducts Rays of Hope day camp

Community Health Professionals news

Community Health Professionals’ Hospice held its annual Rays of Hope day camp June 18-20 for children and youth who have lost a loved one at the Van Wert County YMCA’s Camp Clay and LifeHouse Church in Van Wert.

About 30 youngsters from Van Wert and surrounding counties participated in opportunities to learn about the process of grief, plus participating in fun activities such as swimming at the Camp Clay Water Park, rock wall climbing, crafts and games.

“Rays of Hope Camp is a time for young people who have experienced loss to learn healthy ways to express their sometimes bottled-up emotions,” said Jeanie Saum, RN, CHP Hospice supervisor. “It is also a time for them to make friends, have fun and learn they are not alone.”

Camp activities included Clint Myers of the YMCA presenting information about the cycle of life; Jackie Boyd of Washington Elementary in Bryan with “Ike” the therapy dog; and magician Tyler Nygren performing illusions and making balloon animals.

Each day, groups led by hospice social workers took time to discuss feelings and share thoughts and emotions. Each participant created crafts items like teddy bears, memory boxes and tie-dye shirts as ways to remember their loved ones. Camp concluded with a live butterfly release and remarks by Ron Johnson, hospice chaplain.

The following businesses also provided contributions to the Rays of Hope camp: Convoy United Methodist Church, Cooper Farms, Eaton, Rocky Top Ice Cream Treats, Nicko’s Pizza, Van Wert City Clowns, LifeHouse Church, Van Wert County YMCA/Camp Clay staff, Barb Wagner, Carol Youngpeter, Jim Dock and CHP volunteers: Kellie Mace, Haley Sinning, David Gillespie, Camile Harting, Madison Tracey, Lynn Schweitzer, Jan Waters, Jean Wittung.