Camp Kangaroo, Houston

Two weekends ago, Camp Kangaroo was held in Houston, at (unaffiliated) The Saint Constantine School. I was blessed to photo-document the play and community activities of young campers in between their group counseling sessions. The day camp took place over one full weekend, and reflects the dedication of counselors, music therapists, volunteers, guest physicians, and even guest therapy dogs(!), all expertly organized to serve youth who have experienced loss.

Here is a description from their website:

“Founded in 2012, Camp Kangaroo, a bereavement camp for kids ages 5-18, is free of charge to any child in the community who has lost a loved one. The only national bereavement camp of its kind, Camp Kangaroo is psychotherapy and creative arts based. Led by dedicated professionals and carefully educated volunteers from AccentCare Hospice, Camp Kangaroo helps children feel less alone in their grief, provides them with a supportive environment to express their emotions, and helps them learn effective coping strategies.”

One camp counselor commented that she sees joy in these photos. I agree–that’s possible, I perceive, because the young campers felt seen, safe, connected, and valued during the work of their counseling sessions. My favorite group activity was music therapy, when campers collectively recalled words and phrases from group sessions, which became song lyrics. By the end of camp, there were several verses, a hum-worthy chorus, and–most notably–children singing the new song in their free time.

I heartily recommend Camp Kangaroo for any young person who has experienced the death of a loved one. The weekend was marked with integrity, gentleness, kindness, professionalism, and family integration. It was an honor to document some of the work they’re doing here in Houston!

(photos posted with Camp Kangaroo and families’ permission)