I attended training for Camp Erin yesterday and now I'm even more excited to go in August. I learned the history of how the camp was started and found out the camp is only 3 years old. We learned what to expect, how to listen to the kids, and especially, how important this short stay is for them.
I couldn't help thinking as I was going through training, how nice it would have been to have something like this when dad was killed. While I would have been too old to attend, I sure think it would have helped Kate.
The kids range from 6-17 and all are in the grieving process from losing someone close to them.
My assignments are going to be really great. On Saturday, I'll be helping with the horses and on Saturday night, I'm helping the kids build Love Lights. This is where they build a floating, candle-lit luminary to honor their loved one and send it off on the lake. I'm sure this will be very personal and emotional.
I also learned that we can't have any contact with the campers once they leave on Sunday. We can't take pictures, we're done. They're very respectful of their personal information. I think that will be hard - I'm sure I'll become very fond of some of the kids and would like to know how things work out for them. But, we're like "butterflies that land for a few moments then fly away." They want to ensure that the kids don't get real attached to the adults, start communicating, then contact stops which leaves the kids with another loss. I guess that's understandable.
I left training feeling like this is going to be an experience that will change my life forever. I'm very excited to take part in such a wonderful program and I'm honored to have been accepted as a volunteer.
5 comments:
That is so cool sis!! What a wonderful experience that is going to be for you! And you have so much to offer those kids; they're lucky to have you.
It will be a healing experience for you, too. Can't wait to hear all about it.
wow... I cant wait to hear your experiences when you get back. We did the candle boats at girl scout camp, only we made a wish. That project, by far, was the most memorable.
Wow. This will be great. It's so right for you. I'm sure this will be something you will keep doing. Kind of like your "Wishing Star" work, only even closer to the heart.
We'll all be eager to hear about it.
Yes, you will have a lot to offer the kids. And it will be good for you----the feeling you will take with you of having had a part in their healing process. Just doing volunteer work that seems to make a difference gives one a specialn boost.
I'm proud of you------love you.
Well girls, the Idaho Conservation Officers' Assoc. is putting together a camp starting in 2009 for disadvantaged kids to learn about the outdoors and respect for the law. They're using money from the Pogue/Elms fund for it in honor of dad and Conley. I've already reserved my spot to volunteer for the week. (actually, I think it's all COs working it but I've managed to worm my way in as a volunteer). We could certainly make it a family affair! If you're interested, let me know and I'll get ahold of the CO I've been talking to.
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