To the community,

The Barton Health staff at Barton Hospice and the Barton Foundation would like to thank the many volunteers and sponsors that helped to make the seventh annual Camp Sunrise, a children’s bereavement camp, a success once again.

Camp Sunrise is a free camp offered to children ages 7 through 14 who have experienced the death of a family member or close loved one. This weekend camp provides grief education and support in a fun, safe and supportive environment on the grounds of Galilee Camp & Retreat Center.

Under the guidance of professional bereavement staff and volunteers, campers have the opportunity to meet with other children who have experienced similar losses and participate in activities involving art, music, and recreation. The children also attend daily support groups, enabling them to further explore their grief and work through any unresolved issues.

Teens and children are often forgotten mourners. And because they grieve very differently from adults, their needs are often overlooked. This is why Camp Sunrise is so important – we assist campers in developing healthy coping skills that will benefit them throughout their lives.

Camp staff wanted to express thanks to all of the volunteers and people who provided donations. Thank you to all of the volunteers, without you Camp would not be possible.

We would also like to thank the local groups, individuals, and businesses who contributed – Randi Arias-Losado, Divided Line Media/CJ Valera, Harrah’s and Harveys resorts, Kiwanis Club of Tahoe Sierra, Middlebrook Media, Niall McGuinness, Optimist Club of South Lake Tahoe, and Officer Jason Cheney and Tara with the South Lake Tahoe Police Department’s K-9 Unit.

Camp Sunrise is sponsored by Barton Hospice and the Barton Foundation. It takes place annually in June and all campers must apply to attend.

Rebecca Phillipsen and Tina Bruess