Even though the region is in the midst of winter's grasp, High Country Hospice is gearing up for another summer of Camp Sunshine. The camp is offered annually, free of charge, to children ages five to 12 who have experienced the loss of a loved one.

For more than a decade, High Country Hospice has been helping children in Ashe, Avery and Watauga Counties understand their grief and how to make the process a little easier. 

This year's camp in Ashe County will be held at Westwood Elementary School from Monday, June 14, to Wednesday, June 16, from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. each day. The theme for the 2010 Camp Sunshine is Under the Big Top. 

"There will be specific circus-themed activities," said Candice Cook of High Country Hospice. 

Through games such as Taming Tigers, the children will learn how to talk about their emotions. There will be many classic carnival games including spinning wheels and sand art. Participants will also be able to create a Trunk of Memories honoring their loved ones.

"The children learn how to deal with grief in a way that will work for kids," Cook said about the activities. "They get to hang out with other kids their age who are in similar situations. We also have licensed counselors at the camp."

Camp Sunshine isn't just for grieving, it's also a place to have lots of fun. Registration is now open for the 2010 summer camps, and forms can be found by clicking to www.HighCountryHospice.org/camp.html. 

There is a need for volunteers who are willing to assist with the camp in June. Junior Counselors ages 13 to 18 are paired with a child and assist them throughout each day. Adult volunteers are needed for every aspect of the camp including counseling, food preparation, guiding activities, set up and registration. 

A free training session is scheduled for Junior and Adult Counselors on Saturday, April 24, from 11:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. at the Ashe Hospice office. Anyone willing to volunteer in any way should call High Country Hospice Bereavement Coordinator Carol Ann Baker at (336) 246-6443.

If you can't volunteer but still want to help, donations for food and supplies are needed for the camp. There is a list on the organization's website of items that can be donated.

Hospice staff would also like to remind residents that High Country Hospice offers free grief support for children at anytime during the year. For more information, click to www.highcountryhospice.org.