When does Camp take place this year?
Camp Erin® 2024 will be held June 7-9, 2024.
Camp Erin Philadelphia runs in early June each year. Activities begin on Friday afternoon and end on Sunday, midday. There is programming for parents and guardians at the opening and close of the camp weekend.
Please contact CampErin@pennmedicine.upenn.edu to receive updates and more information
Who can attend Camp Erin Philadelphia?
Camp is open to youth ages 6 to 17 who have experienced the death of a significant person in their lives. In most cases, we recommend that the child not attend the Camp until at least 6 months after the death. Youth from military families are especially encouraged to attend. Preference is given to new Campers. Returning Camper applications are welcome and will be placed on a wait list.
Where is Camp?
Camp Erin Philadelphia is held in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania. You must arrange for your own transportation. If this is an issue, please contact us for assistance.
What activities are offered?
Activities at Camp Erin Philadelphia include all the traditional fun of summer camp — arts and crafts, sports, games, and campfires — but also consist of age-appropriate bereavement support exercises such as Remembrance Opportunities and Circle Time.
What is the registration process and cost?
All potential campers are required to complete an application and in-person interview. Camp Erin is free for all participants.
How do I apply to be a camper?
Parents or guardians must complete an online application for each child who would like to attend. Applications are accepted until all available spaces are filled. After your application is completed, you will be contacted for an in-person interview (usually in March) for your camper and a member of our clinical team.
It is recommended that applications are submitted by March 1st to ensure enough time to complete this process. Campers are invited to attend only after an interview and it is determined that our camp is a good match for your child’s needs. Notifications will be made by email around May 1st.
Who can volunteer?
Anyone 18 years or older can volunteer. If you are younger than 18, please contact us for other great ways to get involved. Past volunteers have included accountants, administrative assistants, graphic designers, customer service representatives, diesel technicians, child life specialists, social workers, insurance agents, teachers, etc. Any individual dedicated to our mission is welcome to apply. You do not need prior experience. Training is provided over two days prior to the weekend. Both take place on Saturdays; one in April, one in May.
What will you do as a volunteer?
Volunteers can serve in a variety of roles, from acting as a Cabin Buddy or Grief Chief in the cabin with the campers or working on one of the many committees. Games, entertainment, performing arts, planning and organizing, rituals, snacks and comfort, and visual arts all play important roles in creating an environment where our campers feel comfortable being kids and expressing their grief. View the job descriptions.
Still have questions? Please contact us at CampErin@pennmedicine.upenn.edu or by calling 800-700-8807.
How can I help?