Community Announcements
Featuring some of the latest news about the Camp Kerry Society’s programs, events, and more.
2021 Scotiabank Charity Challenge
Whether you are looking for a serious challenge or a fun activity for the whole family, this virtual event will keep you moving. Not to mention, you can support a great cause while you do so!
Participants can choose from the 21.1K, 10K, 5K and 1K Kids Race or challenge themselves to complete either of the new Repeat (5K & 10K) or Threepeat (5K, 10K & 21K) Challenges.
Styles of Grieving with Dr. Hajnal
While the process of grieving is universal – we all grieve – grief looks different on everyone. Your relationship with the loss (losses) is unique and so too will be your experience of those losses. At the same time, it can be helpful to see yourself or others in their grief as having a particular style.
Parenting While Grieving: A Virtual Workshop
Are you raising children or teens who have experienced a significant loss through the death of a parent or a sibling?
Let our Counsellor, Samantha French, be your guide in this informative workshop, as you learn more about developmental stages and how they relate to grief, creating a comfortable dialogue for all family members around loss, reducing conflict amongst siblings, democratic parenting and teaching kids self-regulation skills.
Introducing the Rose Family Student Bursary
In memory of Rob Rose, we are pleased to introduce the Rose Family Student Bursary. This fund will provide financial support to youth who have suffered the loss of a parent as they pursue their post-secondary studies.
Family Art Therapy Series: Spring 2021
This six-week series of interactive online sessions are facilitated by Camp Kerry Art Therapist, Sophie Arkell. Families will have opportunities to engage in arts-based activities that will provide helpful emotional outlets, positive coping strategies and enhance communication. Sessions will run for one hour each week.
Navigating New Relationships After the Death of a Spouse
This workshop is suitable for those who are thinking about or currently exploring dating and for those who have already found a new partner.
Connections: Virtual Grief Support Groups – Spring Sessions 2021
This 8-week online program provides opportunities for adults who are bereaved to connect, to share their experiences of loss in a supportive environment, to honour their loved ones, and to learn strategies that can assist them in coping as they grieve.
Call for Nominations 2021
The Camp Kerry Board of Directors is calling for nomination of candidates to stand for the Camp Kerry Society Board of Directors. Member engagement is critical to the success of the Society and the Board relies upon your recommendations for strong candidates.
Indigenous Health and Wellness Day: The Season of Rebirth
A Virtual Wellness Gathering featuring the wisdom and lived-experiences of Indigenous Healers, Leaders, Elders and Artists.
Ideal for individuals impacted by serious illness, grief and loss and those who care for and about them.
1.5 Hour Songwriting Workshops
Facilitated by accredited Music Therapist, Luke Burton. Luke is a singer/songwriter with many years of experience as a performer, therapist, group facilitator and community choir co-leader. He has worked as part of the Camp Kerry team since 2017.
2020 Annual Report
2020 was the year we didn’t give up. Thank you for your incredible support of Camp Kerry as we continued to build a compassionate, creative community for those experiencing grief and loss. Learn more about your impact in our 2020 Annual Report…
Mindfulness Monday’s Mid-Day Drop-in Sessions
You don’t need a lot of time to make a difference in your day – these sessions support stress and anxiety in times of change and loss. This half hour break can help you connect with breath and balance.
Connections: Virtual Pregnancy & Infant Loss Support Group
The loss of a pregnancy or baby can be devastating, complicated and often unrecognized–and this may be especially true during the current pandemic restrictions. Whether your loss is recent or your grief feels more powerful at this time, our Pregnancy and Infant Loss Support Group can help offer a sense of connection, healing and hope
These Simple Words: Three Hour Songwriting Workshops
Have you ever wanted to write your own song? Let Camp Kerry Music Therapist, Luke Burton, be your guide in this virtual workshop, as you explore your creative side and set your emotions in motion with creativity exercises and easy song-writing tools in this fun and safe workshop. No prior song-writing experience or musical ability is required.
Family Improv & Games: Virtual Therapeutic Play Sessions
Are you looking for new ways to engage and have fun with your kids amidst the restrictions created by the COVID-19 pandemic and despite the heaviness and sorrow that grief has brought into your lives? If there’s one important thing we’ve learned at Camp Kerry over the many years we’ve worked with grieving families, it’s that children who have suffered a loss still need to play…and sometimes they really need the adults in their lives to be willing to play alongside them!
Connections: Frontline Conversations
COVID-19 has pushed frontline workers/essential service providers in hospitals, schools and community-based services into coping with unprecedented levels of stress, uncertainty, anxiety, change, loss and grief.
These one-hour drop-in groups ~ facilitated by members of the Camp Kerry team who know just what it’s like to work on the frontlines during a pandemic ~ provide space for authentic conversations about the unique challenges you are coping with in your work setting, what’s helping, what’s not and anything else that is on your mind! Confidentiality is assured.
Connections: Virtual Grief Support Group – New Year Session 2021
This 8-week online program provides opportunities for adults who are bereaved to connect, to share their experiences of loss in a supportive environment, to honour their loved ones, and to learn strategies that can assist them in coping as they grieve.
Writing Our Grief
Facilitated by counsellor and published writer Tama Recker, this series is suitable for those without any writing experience and seasoned writers alike. Participants will be guided to access creative thinking and mindfulness practices that encourage listening to inner thoughts and feelings as well to one’s grief process in new ways.
Now Accepting 2021 Virtual Choir Registrations
Now accepting Virtual Choir registrations for our 2021 sessions (New Year and Spring). All are welcome!
Love, Cora
• The Camp Kerry Society is pleased to announce the launch of a new support program for families who have experienced the sudden death of a young child. Created in loving memory of six-year old Cora Fey Cheney, the “Love, Cora” care packages are intended to provide comfort, hope and practical support for grieving families.
Drop-in Grief Support Group: Christmas Eve 2020
Whether a loss be recent or long ago, the winter holiday season is often a difficult time for those who are grieving. If you are one of the many who are struggling this year then we encourage you to attend this virtual support group. Space will be held so that participants have opportunities to share, to listen, and to support one another. After the first hour of structured facilitation, participants can remain online to continue conversations with one another.
Interlude: A Holiday Grief Gathering
A time to step back during the busy Christmas season and make space for reflection, connection and inspiration.
Explore strategies for coping with grief and finding hope during the holidays.
Connection + Compassion: Our Antidote to 2020
At Camp Kerry we’re committed to finding creative ways to build community during this challenging time – and we need your help. As isolation increases, anxiety and loss continue to be widespread. The need for the compassionate connections provided by our programs has...
COVID-19 Support Groups for Frontline Workers
These support groups are intended for adults impacted by the effects of working on the frontlines during the Covid-19 pandemic. Ideal for healthcare workers and essential service providers including; doctors, nurses, community support workers, teachers, and therapists.
Reflective Writing Series
This series is designed to support participants with any processing they may want to do specific to their grief while also supporting the reflective process. The intention of this series is to inspire and open some new pathways of listening rather than about becoming a better writer.
Connections: Beyond the Virus 2020 Fall Sessions
This 6-week online program provides opportunities for adults, who have been bereaved during COVID-19, to connect and to share their experiences of loss in a supportive, compassionate environment with others who understand the unique challenges of losing a loved one during a pandemic.
Grief Modules for Teachers
— Camp Kerry Society PresentsGrief In the Classroom: Online Resources for TeachersWe appreciate the sense of vulnerability that can arise with loss and stepping into uncomfortable conversations, the worries about “getting it wrong”, about “making things worse” – these...
Virtual Grief Support Groups: Fall Sessions 2020
— Camp Kerry Society PresentsConnections: Virtual Grief Support Groups for Adults - Fall 2020In response to COVID-19 and the requirements for social distancing, the Camp Kerry Society is pleased to offer a variety of programs and workshops virtually to those impacted...
Connections: Youth 2020 Fall Sessions
— Camp Kerry Society PresentsConnections: YouthOct. 20th - Nov. 24th 2020 Tuesdays online from 4PM - 5:30PM PST, 7PM - 8:30PM EST, 8PM - 9:30PM ATL What to expect: Each week, participants will be able to choose a new outdoor challenge to complete with someone in their...
Songwriting Workshop: October 2020
— Camp Kerry Society PresentsThese Simple Words: A Song Writing WorkshopOctober 24, 2020 10am - 1pm PST, 1pm - 4pm EST, 2pm - 5pm ASTHave you ever wanted to write your own song? Let Camp Kerry Music Therapist Luke Burton be your guide in this virtual workshop, as you...
Family Art Therapy: Fall Virtual Series
— Camp Kerry Society PresentsFAMILY ART THERAPY: A six week virtual seriesOctober 15 - November 19, 2020Thursdays 4PM-5PM PST, 7PM-8PM EST, 8PM-9PM ASTThis six-week series of interactive online sessions are facilitated by Camp Kerry Art Therapist, Sophie Arkell....
Virtual Pregnancy and Infant Loss Support Groups
— Camp Kerry Society PresentsConnections: Pregnancy & Infant Loss Support GroupsThe loss of a pregnancy or baby can be devastating, complicated and often unrecognized–and this may be especially true during the current pandemic restrictions. Whether your loss is...
Dog Trainer Finds Creative Way to Give Back During the COVID-19 Pandemic
When Qualicum Beach Certified Professional Dog Trainer Domena Diesing of Definitely Dogs was forced to cancel all her puppy and dog training classes because of COVID-19 restrictions, her monthly income plummeted to nothing. Faced with the sudden and scary loss of her...
Kaleidoscope 2020: A Virtual Grief Convention
Kaleidoscope 2020 is the Camp Kerry Society’s first Virtual Grief Convention for Families and Professionals. From September 24 – 27th, we will gather as a community impacted by serious illness, grief and loss to share in four days of connection, inspired learning and hope.
Virtual Perinatal Loss Support Groups: Summer Session 2020
— Camp Kerry Society PresentsConnections: Perinatal Loss Support GroupsThe loss of a pregnancy or baby can be complicated and often unrecognized, and this may be especially true during the current pandemic restrictions. Whether your loss is recent or your grief feels...
Leadership Announcement for Canada East
RE: EASTERN CANADA PROGRAMS LEADERSHIP ANNOUNCEMENTWe are thrilled to announce the appointment of Shelley Hermer ~ in an expanded new role as our Manager of Regional Programs: Canada East. Shelley has volunteered extensively with the Camp Kerry Society since 2011 and...
Making Space for Grief
As the pandemic has taken its toll on our team this spring, I have found myself feeling so grateful for Camp Kerry’s amazing volunteers. Volunteers like Sam French, who have stepped up during this pandemic to serve families that need our support now more than ever....
2020 Scotiabank Charity Challenge
Virtual Half Marathon, 10K and 5K events June 29, 2020 - September 18, 2020 The world looks very different than it did twelve weeks ago. Along with the many changes we're facing as a community, the 2020 Scotiabank Vancouver Half Marathon & 5K has been...
Virtual Grief Support Groups – Available Across Canada
— Camp Kerry Society PresentsConnections: Virtual Grief Support Groups for AdultsIn response to COVID-19 and the requirements for social distancing, the Camp Kerry Society is pleased to offer a variety of programs and workshops virtually to those impacted by serious...
Family Art Therapy – Virtual Series
— Camp Kerry Society PresentsFAMILY ART THERAPY: A six week family-focused expressive arts seriesMay 21 - June 25, 20204:00PM - 5:00PM PST 7:00PM - 8:00PM EST 8:00PM - 9:00PM ASTThis six-week series of interactive online sessions are facilitated by Camp Kerry Art...
Notice of AGM 2020
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Annual General Meeting (“AGM”) of the Camp Kerry Society (the “Society”) will take place on Sunday, May 31, 2020 at 11 am. In accordance with Electronic Attendance at Corporate Meetings (COVID-19) Order issued by the Minister of Public...
These Simple Words…
A VIRTUAL song writing workshop with Camp Kerry Music Therapist, Luke Burton. May 9, 2020.
Mindful Photography
Mindfulness is a practice that invites being in the present moment, to connect with what is. Using photography to see and acknowledge what is are ways we can step into mindfulness and invite some calm. Join Dr. Catherine Hajnal for a virtual journey into the senses.
Mindful Photography for Youth
Mindfulness is a practice that invites being in the present moment, to connect with what is. Using photography to see and acknowledge what is are ways we can step into mindfulness and invite some calm. Join Dr. Catherine Hajnal for a virtual journey into the senses.
Covid-19 Support Groups for Frontline Workers
— Camp Kerry Society PresentsCovid-19 Support Groups for Frontline WorkersThese weekly peer groups are intended for adults impacted by the effects of working on the frontlines during the Covid-19 pandemic. Ideal for healthcare workers and essential service providers...
Let’s Get Creative!
With classes suspended across the country and families practicing social distancing by staying home, we know lots of parents are looking for ways to keep their kids busy. At Camp Kerry we believe in the power of art to inspire hope and possibility – especially during difficult times.
So we asked Sophie, one of Camp Kerry’s awesome art therapists, to put together some at-home art activity ideas for you and your family. These activities use common household items. You can easily improvise and substitute with whatever items you have available to you. Have fun!
Connections: Families
In response to Covid-19 and the need to practice self-distancing, the Camp Kerry Society has chosen to provide more online services in addition to some of our existing programs and our well established network, “Circles of Strength Online”.
In Response to Coronavirus
After ongoing discussions with members of our team and consultations with frontline health care professionals, we have concluded that it is in the best interests of both our participants and our teams to postpone all of our current group programs across Canada until further notice.
2019 Annual Report
At Camp Kerry, we go beyond traditional counselling approaches to harness the love, compassion and creativity of an entire community to support and embrace those who are grieving.
Call for Nominations 2020: Board of Directors
The Camp Kerry Board of Directors is calling for nomination of candidates to stand for the Camp Kerry Society Board of Directors.
Vancouver Island Grief Retreat for Youth
Vancouver Island Grief Retreat for Youth March 20-23, 2020, Crofton, Vancouver Island If you're between the ages of 13-19 and want to learn how to cope with the death of a loved one then join us for an experience like no other - you'll be glad you did!AboutCamp...
Grief Made My Kids Stronger
My name is Laurette. In 2009 I had three children under seven. And a husband with cancer…
National Bereavement Day 2019
November 19, 2019, is Canada’s third National Bereavement Day. On this day, the Camp Kerry Society invites all Canadians to think about our loved ones who have died and to help advocate for support at local, provincial and national levels for grieving Canadians.
Team Camp Kerry Wins A Prize in the Charity Challenge
Last June a remarkable group of Runners, Volunteers and Supporters assembled to form Team Camp Kerry at the Vancouver Scotiabank Half Marathon & 5K Charity Challenge. We raised $14,555 and had a ton of fun doing so. We have an exciting update to share: Team Camp...
New Brunswick Children’s Foundation Making a Difference Once Again
Marilyn Lester (right), president New Brunswick Children’s Foundation presents a $7,000 grant to Pam Pastirik, Camp Kerry Atlantic. Since 2016, the New Brunswick Children's Foundation has gone above and beyond to support families in New Brunswick through our...
Bubble Soccer? Come See for Yourself
We are very pleased to announce that the Bayview Credit Union has selected Camp Kerry as its charity of choice for its third annual Bubble Soccer funraiser. It's an opportunity for people to come together for a full day of fun while supporting an excellent cause. All...
Naadia’s Story: Surrounded by Love
“Camp Kerry became an important part of my family’s grieving process and also a place to celebrate and honour the lives of those we had lost.”
A Message from the Captain
To the amazing Team Camp Kerry Runners, Volunteers, and Supporters: WE DID IT! We shattered our goal and raised a staggering $14,555 I'm in awe. What a phenomenal drive by a small, caring and focused group. We crushed the race course! Many of us had recent injury...
Walking Around With A Smile
Lily was only 7 years old when her father, Doug, died. He’d had a brain tumor since before she was born…“He could have died before I was born,” she continues. “But I got seven whole years.”
Notice of 2019 Annual General Meeting
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Annual General Meeting (“AGM”) of members of the Camp Kerry Society (the “Society”) will be held at the Evergreen Cultural Centre, 1205 Pinetree Way, Coquitlam, British Columbia on Sunday, June 2, 2019 at 1:15 pm.
Community Celebration 2019
Join us in celebrating our compassionate community and the wonderful success we’ve shared…
Music, My Sanctuary: Featuring Aspen Switzer
Come on out to Port Alberni, British Columbia for an unforgettable evening of music featuring folk artist, Aspen Switzer and company. Proceeds will be used to provide bereavement services to Vancouver Island Youth.
Find Me A Sanctuary: Vancouver Island Workshop
Exploring some of the benefits of music and mindfulness-based self-care practices. Participation is encouraged for those coping with grief & loss and for those working/volunteering in the helping professions.
Please Just Listen: A Workshop for Volunteers Working With Those Who Are Bereaved
A chance to explore what we mean and intend when we say how important it is to listen and also what makes it so complicated.
We Are Better Together
Moove n’ Grooove Dance studio gives breathtaking performances entitled, “The Journey to Hope”, in support of Camp Kerry – raising over $10,000!
Kitchen Volunteers Needed
Help bring the magic of connection, healing and hope to families impacted by grief and loss by joining our kitchen crew…
James Bidgood 2019 Memorial Puck N’ Ball Tournament
Well the rumors are true, the 4th Annual James Bidgood Memorial Hockey Day is now a puck and ball tournament. This means 2 games of Hockey and 2 games of Baseball. The best part is proceeds will go to benefit both Camp Kerry Ontario and Hospice Norwood!
Find Me A Sanctuary
A Music & Mindfulness Self-Care Workshop for those Living with Grief and Loss.
2019 Scotiabank Vancouver Half Marathon & 5K Charity Challenge
Support Life After Loss when you walk, wheel or run your way to the finish line in the 2019 Scotiabank Vancouver Half Marathon and 5K events! To register or sponsor a team member…
The Ebb and Flow of Grief: How One Father Finds Hope
Sandi was 37 when she was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, a type of blood cancer. Almost immediately, she started what would be 5 months of chemotherapy treatment.
Spring Retreat Day: A Day of Self-Care
Spring is a time for transformation and renewal. The beauty of nature is emerging all around us, but in our busy lives we don’t always take time to stop and smell the flowers. Give yourself the gift of self-care. This workshop will provide participants with a safe...
Camp Kerry Atlantic’s Spring Fling Fundraiser
Come and dance the night away at our 2nd Annual Camp Kerry Atlantic fundraiser! There will be door prizes, 50/50, snacks, a cash bar, DJ's from Hunter Sounds, live music and lots of dancing! We ‘ll be having fun and raising funds to support the only family bereavement...
Beyond One Voice Workshop: April 2019
This workshop is ideal for those coping with grief & loss and for those working/volunteering in helping professions.
Registration Open for Camp Kerry Ontario 2019
Since 2014, the Camp Kerry Society has been delivering the only family bereavement retreat program in Ontario. As a result, dozens of children, youth and adults have received help. If you or someone you know resides in Ontario or nearby regions and is struggling as a...
Registration Open For Camp Kerry 2019
In 2007, Dr. Heather Mohan's vision of creating a special space for families to connect, heal and find hope after losing a loved one finally became a reality when she developed Canada's very first family bereavement retreat program, "Camp Kerry". Since then, thousands...
Call for Nominations 2019
The Camp Kerry Society's Board of Directors is calling for nomination of candidates to stand for the Camp Kerry Society Board of Directors. Member engagement is critical to the success of the Society and the Board relies upon your recommendations for strong...
Registration Open for Camp Kerry Atlantic 2019
If you or someone you know resides in Atlantic Canada and is struggling as a result of a significant loss then you might wish to consider joining our compassionate community to gain a sense of connection, healing and hope. Please note that demand for this unique...
Beyond One Voice Workshop: March 2019
This workshop is ideal for those coping with grief & loss and for those working/volunteering in helping professions.
Douglas College Offers Mindfulness
We are pleased to announce that our Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction Classes will continue for another season at Douglas College campuses in New Westminster and Coquitlam, British Columbia. These courses assist people with anxiety, stress, depression and pain. Many...
G&F Financial Brings New Life
This past week a couple of our Camp Kerry staff took a moment to say thank-you to our friends at G&F Financial Group – a company that truly supports “life beyond banking”. G & F didn’t hesitate when they were approached to be our 2018 Camp Kerry...
Holiday Outreach A Success
On Christmas Eve, members from our community came together to offer comfort (clothing, food, a warm fire and peer support) to those who are grieving and in need on the downtown Eastside of Vancouver, British Columbia. Camp Kerry team member and recipient...
Holiday Outreach: Vancouver
On December 24th members of our community will be out to offer comfort to those in need on the downtown Eastside of Vancouver by offering their support, some clothing and some food. This tradition was started by Camp Kerry team member, Joshua Dahling, in...
Retreat Day for Bereaved Families in Atlantic Canada
Thanks to the generous support of our partners from the Saint John Community Foundation, the Camp Kerry Society is pleased to offer our very first Family Day Retreat for the Winter Holiday Season, which will be hosted by our good friends at Snider Mountain Ranch in...
Day Retreat For Bereaved Families
Are you looking for the opportunity to connect with other families who are coping with grief and loss? Are you looking for strategies to help you and your children to cope with your loss during the busy holiday season? Are you looking for a place where you can remember your loved one(s) in a community with others who understand?
Spin for Camp Kerry
On November 4th, twenty six riders got together at Cadence Cycling Studio to raise funds and awareness for the Camp Kerry Society…
National Bereavement Day 2018
As a non-profit organization whose primary mandate is the provision of grief and loss supports, we invite you to join us and our partners in bringing public attention to this day, as well as to the crisis that pertains to the lack of bereavement resources in this country…
Celebrating Success In Ontario
This is the fifth year that the Camp Kerry Society has been offering its signature bereavement program to families in Ontario. We could not do it without the devotion and talents provided by our incredible team of volunteers…
Beyond One Voice: November Workshop
Join us on November 17 for an engaging and inspiring afternoon in which we will explore the power of Music within the context of Grief & Loss.
Camp Kerry Ontario’s Fifth Year
This week marks my 8th Camp Kerry and the 5th year since we were able to bring the vision from British Columbia to Ontario. I think our first family bereavement retreat in Ontario had 5 families…this coming week we’ll be hosting 17! It’s been 5 years of incredibly hard work on behalf of amazing volunteers…
Beyond One Voice: October Workshop
This workshop is ideal for those coping with grief & loss and for those working/volunteering in helping professions. It will be facilitated by Accredited Music Therapists from the Camp Kerry Society.
Community Choir Registration Open for Fall Sessions
Registration is now open for Synergy! Whether you're an experienced choir member, or simply wanting to try something new, we'd love for you to join us. Currently we have sessions available on the North Shore and in New Westminster, British Columbia. For...
Atlantic Bereavement Retreat A Huge Success
Chances are that everybody already knows that the third Camp Kerry Atlantic family bereavement retreat was a HUGE success - word happens to travel fast in the Maritimes and we are proud of that... First and foremost, we want to thank our extraordinary...
Join Us for Our 5th Annual Golf Tournament
Whether you're a golf enthusiast, someone who wants to support a great cause, or simply someone who wants to make connections with other like minded people, the Annual Camp Kerry Golf Tournament Charity Fundraiser is rumoured to be one of the best around....
Beyond One Voice: Building Compassionate Community Through Dialogue & Song
VIP Community Celebration
Join us as we honour some people who have helped us improve the quality of Health Care across Canada through our award winning bereavement programs. Once again it's time... To gather our community To celebrate our 2017 Camp Kerry Society Award Winners To hear a live...
A Workshop On Grief & Loss
Presented by Registered Clinical Counselor and Accredited Music Therapist, Dr. Heather Mohan, along with Registered Art Therapist, Sophie Arkell, of the Camp Kerry Society. This workshop is designed for educators, counsellors, child & youth workers,...
Registration Opens Across Canada
Due to the solid fundraising efforts put forth by some our alumni, the generous contributions of our donors, and the gift of time offered by our outstanding team of volunteers, the Camp Kerry Society will be offering our award winning family bereavement...
NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Annual General Meeting (“AGM”) of members of the Camp Kerry Society (the “Society”) will be held at the Evergreen Cultural Centre, 1205 Pinetree Way, Coquitlam, British Columbia on Tuesday, June 5, 2018 at 5:00 pm for the following...
2018 Scotiabank Vancouver Half Marathon & 5K Charity Challenge
The Camp Kerry Society is proud to have Famoso on board as a Corporate Partner this year. In appreciation of all those helping us to make a difference for children and families coping with grief, Famoso will be awarding gift certificates and more to Team Camp Kerry...
