Cutline: Camp STAR provides support and healing for children who have lost someone close to them. It blends outdoor activity with grief education so kids can process loss in healthy and constructive ways. (Photo courtesy of Camp STAR)

MARQUETTE — The Michigan State Police Negaunee post announced on Thursday that it is promoting and supporting Camp STAR.

Camp STAR is a free, weekend-long grief camp that provides a safe, supportive, and healing environment for children and teens aged eight to 17 who have experienced the loss of a parent, sibling, friend or loved one.

The camp will take place from Aug. 8-10 and is hosted by STAR Children’s Bereavement Services. It offers a unique blend of traditional outdoor fun and meaningful grief education, helping young people process loss in healthy and constructive ways. As of this article’s writing, spots are still available for those interested in attending.

According to an MSP press release on Thursday, the camp is primarily organized by MSP Negaunee Post Secretary Ashely Hernandez, who took over Camp STAR leadership in early 2022, shortly after her own personal experience with grief in 2021.

“Managing and volunteering at Camp STAR was a huge step in my own healing process by being able to educate myself on grief and help others when they need it the most, especially children,” said Hernandez in the release. “I have loved every minute of it and foresee many years of grief service in my future.”

Outside of working at the MSP, Hernandez facilitates all programs for STAR Children’s Bereavement Services with help from board members, interns and volunteers. Other members of the MSP also volunteer at the camp as possible to provide support and mentorship throughout the weekend.

Applications for the camp are available online at starcbs.org/summer-camp/. Call 906-250-2489 to see if there are spots available.