Brooke’s Place for Grieving Young People has announced a partnership with Indianapolis Indians Charities to support Camp Healing Tree, a weekend camp for youth ages 7 through 17 who have experienced the death of a loved one.
The partnership includes a $10,000 grant, a Rowdie appearance at Camp Healing Tree, in-park experiences at Victory Field and more.
“We are truly grateful for the support of Indianapolis Indians Charities,” Brooke’s Place Executive Director Theresa Brun said. “Thanks to organizations like theirs, we are able to provide camp at no cost to families and offer an even more beneficial environment for children living with grief to connect with others who have gone through similar experiences.”
A favorite among Brooke’s Place Families, the annual camp is held at the scenic grounds of Jameson Camp, 2001 Bridgeport Road, Indianapolis, which provides a welcoming and safe environment where youth can process the death of a loved one while building friendships and self-esteem. This year, it will take place from Aug. 18 to 20.
Through the support of adult volunteer “buddies” and group facilitators, the campers will participate in meaningful group discussions and fun camp activities like swimming, games and crafts. The weekend will conclude with a Memorial Service for campers and their families. Over 130 volunteers will make this 29th year of camp a successful venture. Through a partnership with Paws and Think, each peer group is also accompanied by their own designated therapy dog. This year, Rowdie will be at camp check-in to welcome families, many of whom will be attending for the first time.
“Indianapolis Indians Charities is proud to partner with Brooke’s Place to provide an outlet for children grieving the loss of a loved one,” said Joel Zawacki, Indianapolis Indians assistant general manager of corporate sales & marketing and Indianapolis Indians Charities board member. “We are committed to uplifting youth and families in need in our community whether that be through financial assistance, an appearance by our beloved mascot Rowdie or a visit to Victory Field.”
Thousands of children throughout the United States will go through the death of a parent, grandparent, sibling, or someone close to them this year. According to Judi’s House 2023 Childhood Bereavement Estimation Model, one in 10 children in Indiana will experience the death of a parent or sibling by age 18. It is projected that there will be an additional 11,000 or more children affected due to COVID-19.
Thanks to Indianapolis Indians Charities, Firefly Children and Family Alliance, Indiana Criminal Justice Institute, Ascension St. Vincent, Braveheart Foundation, Gentiva, Lilly Endowment, Inc., and Miller Summer Mission for Children, and all who have invested, Camp Healing Tree continues to grow while supporting grieving young people and their families in 2023.
About Brooke’s Place
Established in 1999, Brooke’s Place provides ongoing grief support groups, therapy services, and community education to empower children, teens, young adults, and their families to thrive in the midst of grief. For the last 24 years, Brooke’s Place has served more than 27,000 individuals. With an estimated 73,000 children expected to go through the death of a loved one in central Indiana before the age of 20, there will always be an ongoing need in the community for the programs provided at Brooke’s Place. To learn more, please visit BrookesPlace.org.
About Indianapolis Indians Charities
Indianapolis Indians Charities is a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to helping youth and families grow stronger together, learn more and live healthier lives. The nonprofit is focused on supporting organizations in four areas: youth development, family success, education, and neighborhood development.