MDH Behavioral Health Hosts Free Children’s Grief and Hope Retreat

MACOMB, Ill. – Families and children of McDonough County and the surrounding areas who have experienced the loss of a loved one will have a new resource for healing at the Children’s Grief and Hope Retreat taking place Saturday, May 4, at Lakeview Nature Center.

Funded by the Fellheimer Trust of Wesley United Methodist Church, this is a free program available to children ages 6-18. The loss need not be recent, as this retreat provides an outlet to discuss feelings at any stage of grief.

Licensed Clinical Social Worker Susan Denecke of MDH Behavioral Health Services is organizing the event that will combine counseling, art, and movement activities to help children cope and heal from losing a loved one.

“This camp will serve children who have experienced the loss of a loved one and expose them to resources that can help them cope with stress and loss. Two years ago we held a similar event, inspired by a long running program in Galesburg. I wanted to bring something closer to home, so children who have experienced loss know they are not alone,” shared Denecke.

For registration information, call MDH Behavioral Health Services at (309) 836-1582. To learn more about the full range of counseling services provided by MDH, including individual, group and family therapy, visit MDH.org/services.