BLOOMINGTON — A specialized day program designed to help children navigate the painful journey of losing a loved one is returning to Bloomington this fall. Camp Good Grief 2026, a program provided by Indiana University Health, will take place on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at the Indiana University Hilltop Garden and Nature Center.
The free event is tailored for youth ages 6 to 16 who have experienced the death of someone special.
Guiding Grieving Hearts
Following the death of a loved one, children and teenagers frequently grapple with overwhelming thoughts—feeling like they will never feel good again, believing nobody understands their pain, or feeling isolated without peers who share a similar experience. Additionally, adults in their lives are often consumed by their own grief, making it difficult for young people to express their feelings.
Camp Good Grief provides a supportive environment to help young participants work through these complex emotions. Through structured activities involving art, music, and play, campers learn to:
- Connect with peers who are also experiencing loss.
- Develop positive coping mechanisms.
- Find meaningful ways to preserve memories and honor their loved ones.
Event Details & Registration
The half-day program runs from 8:45 AM to 12:45 PM at the IU Hilltop Garden and Nature Center, located at 2367 E. 10th St. in Bloomington. Lunch will be provided to all registered participants.
| Event Overview | Details |
| Date & Time | Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026 | 8:45 AM – 12:45 PM |
| Location | IU Hilltop Garden and Nature Center 2367 E. 10th St., Bloomington, IN 47408 |
| Target Audience | Children and teens ages 6–16 |
| Cost | Free |
| Capacity | Limited to 45 campers |
| Registration Deadline | September 7, 2026 |
How to Sign Up
Due to space limitations, participation is capped at 45 campers, and advance registration is required by September 7, 2026. Families can register by scanning the official QR code on the event flyer.
For questions or registration assistance, families can reach out to the Camp Good Grief Team by phone at 812.545.2970 or via email at scrcampgoodgrief@iuhealth.org
