Camp New Dawn

Camp New Dawn

Camp New Dawn is a three-day, two-night grief retreat for children, teens and families who are struggling with the loss of a loved one. Campers learn healthy coping skills that will benefit them throughout their lives. They engage in group discussions and activities with other kids who have experienced loss, and interact with professional grief counselors who help them learn about and express grief in a safe, natural environment.

Email Contact: Rhonda Knotts rknotts@compassregionalhospice.org

Family Camp

The family portion of Camp New Dawn provides the adults 24 hours of respite before their children join them.  This is also an opportunity for them to explore where they are in their grief.  While the children do great work at camp it is important for them to work on grief together as a family. On day two the whole family will come together for activities to help with communication and the grieving process. Our hope is they would have some great tools to take back home to continue to process their grief and heal as a family.

Email Contact: Sherrie Young syoung1@compassregionalhospice.org

During the 2023 session of Camp New Dawn we welcomed a new face to camp, Josh Robinson. Josh is a professional Percussionist, teaching artist, and drum facilitator. For the past 20 years he has used his skills, expertise, and life experience to share drumming and the many gifts it brings with thousands of people each year, around the country.  Chestertown Spy Article: A Totally Different Drummer: Solace and Strength by Drumming at Camp New Dawn 

What is the cost?

No child is turned away because of inability to pay.

Individual Cost: $75 per camper
Family Cost: $125 per family

How do I register?

To register a camper, you and your child will complete and submit the application. Download the belowapplications:

Email Contact to learn more: rknotts@compassregionalhospice.org

How can I support Camp New Dawn?

The success of Camp New Dawn depends on a group of caring and compassionate adults who volunteer as buddies. Each camper is paired with an adult buddy for the weekend. Applicants must be 21 years of age or older. New buddies must complete a three-hour training program, and all buddies participate in a four-hour training program prior to the start of camp.

Compass relies heavy on donations for Camp expenses, which has allowed us to serve over 800 children regardless of their ability pay. We think it’s important that every child who could benefit from the experience can attend. It’s a huge endeavor, and one that our staff and volunteers take on proudly to ensure this resource is here for our communities’ youth. Monetary, in-kind, or sponsorship opportunities are available and welcomed! For more information about how to make a donation, contact Shelly Baird, sbaird@compassregionalhospice.org or call 443-262-4106.