Camp Widow® Kids Program

The Camp Widow® Kids program is a unique, one-day experience designed for children ages 5-17 who are accompanying a registered Camp Widow® participant. It’s held alongside Camp Widow events in Houston and Chicago and is free for participating families who have an adult already registered in our Camp Widow program, thanks to the support of donors and sponsors.

Program Highlights

• Peer Connection: A supportive atmosphere that mirrors the connection-focused experience of Camp Widow for adults, building a community of peers.
• Engaging Activities: Offers theme-based activities, outdoor fun, team-building games, and dedicated time for the children to honor their loved ones..
• Safe and Supportive Environment:Creates a secure space for children to share their stories, connect with others, and build narratives around their experience..
• Narrative Building: Guides children in exploring how and when to share the story of their parent’s death among peers who understand their loss.

Participant Reflection: “My favorite thing has been meeting people who are similar to me. We all have one thing in common, and we can talk about it and have a good time together” Noah, age 15

Parent Reflections: “Giving the kids the opportunity to get to know other kids in a similar situation, I feel it is just as important for them as it is for us.” 

“My daughter felt normal. She said everyone understood what she was going through.”

Volunteer reflection: “It's beautiful to see the immense love and understanding for each other coming from such tiny humans. Watching the kids forge what will hopefully be a lifelong support system gives me joy and hope; reminding me that while we are resilient, we are stronger when together.” Christine

Camp Widow Kids has had the privilege of providing a space for families to honor their loved one and process their shared grief experience in a unique side-by-side program that has been building community—and supporting families— since 2016. 

Program Details

• When/Where: September 20, 2025 in Chicago, IL
• Who: Young people ages 5-17, accompanying a registered Camp Widow® participant
• What: A program designed to provide age-appropriate coping tools and a supportive peer community for children who have experienced the death of a parent.
• Cost: FREE! Funding is provided by Soaring Spirits sponsors and donors to ensure that families can access this program regardless of their ability to pay.