In the News

Care Dimensions Celebrates 25th Anniversary of Camp Stepping Stones for Grieving Children and Families

Care Dimensions is proud to mark a milestone anniversary of Camp Stepping Stones, its one-day camp for children and families who have experienced the death of someone important in their lives. This year’s event – being held on Saturday, July 18^th in Beverly – will be the 25^th Camp Stepping Stones. Since its founding, the camp has served more than 900 children and their families.

The event includes a range of activities designed to provide connection, remembrance, and a sense of community. Activities for children typically include expressive arts, music and movement, and a petting zoo. Parents and caregivers participate in facilitated workshops on topics including parenting solo, raising grieving children, and yoga for living with loss.

"It's a day where everyone who comes 'gets it,'" said Sammy McCarthy, Manager of Pediatric Palliative Care & the Children's Program at Care Dimensions. "Everyone there knows what it feels like to lose someone special in their lives, and that alone just lets people breathe a little bit."

The camp's signature activity – for which it is named – involves decorating stepping stones, often in tribute to the person they've lost. At the end of the day, children are then invited to share memories of those who have passed.

"It's incredible to see the children comfortable enough to share in front of the group," said Patrice DePasquale, Director of Bereavement & Pediatric Palliative Care. "In school, they're often silently grieving and they hold back their emotions. Camp gives them an outlet to express themselves; to tell their story, share special memories, and feel validated."

Registration for Camp Stepping Stones 2026 is now open. Space is limited, and families are encouraged to register at CareDimensions.org/Camp or contact [email protected].