Stepping Stones of Hope

WE DO GRIEF CAMPS FOR KIDS! That is our primary mission....The long description for what we do is: Stepping Stones of Hope is dedicated to providing comprehensive support-based programs, continuing care and education to grieving children, families, adults and communities.

Since 1999, Stepping Stones of Hope has sponsored multiple bereavement weekend and day camp programs for children, teens, individual adults and families. Programs place campers in a neutral and safe environment where a variety of coping skill-based activities are offered to support their grief journey and build family cohesion and resilience. Themes include trust, vulnerability, interpersonal relationships, guilt, anger, family dynamics, memories, hopes, and dreams. Upon request, Stepping Stones of Hope also offers topics related to grief and bereavement to schools, professional and community organizations serving the state of Arizona.

Here are some statistics on the camper families served:
· 85% of our campers (17 and under) experienced the death loss of a parent and are now living in a single parent home! 77% of those parents were the father figure in the home and typically provided the main income. Statistics identify the death loss of a parent as one of the top five risk factors for children who experience certain behavioral problems.
· 27% of our campers received scholarships and attended camp free of charge.
38% of our 2021 campers (17 and under) were teenagers and of our total campers, 54% were girls and 46% were boys.

For a weekend camp, adult registration fee is on average $75 and $60 for children, 17 and under. This includes five (5) meals, two (2) night's lodging and all activity and take home items. Partial scholarships are available and no one is denied the opportunity to go to one of our camps based on their ability to pay.

Testimonials

"If the untimely loss of my wife was not unbearable enough, I had to juggle a career, a commute, and two very hurting boys. I was very lost, very overwhelmed and very stubborn! I heard about a "grief camp" up in Payson called Camp Paz and attended with my sons. That camp really changed our lives. It did not cure us of our grief but rather equipped us with tools that we would need for our journey. We loved the experience so much that we attended every program that SSOH offers and were compelled to support and volunteer ever since. The programs of SSOH helped us rethink, reinvent and rediscover who we are and what we are made of, all while honoring our loved ones. My family and I are so grateful for SSOH and all that they do to serve grieving families." Joe, past camper and current volunteer.

"Stepping Stones Of Hope is like no other. The organization's mission is original and the only place I have found to help me with my immense grief. SSOH staff has a way to let you express yourself and trust them unconditionally. Without this organization, I don't know where I would be today. I am eternally grateful for SSOH."
Fran, a past camper of adult programs.

"I came into Stepping Stones of Hope as a very distraught, reluctant, young camper. I was stubborn and I truly appreciate the patience and kindness that everyone showed. I regularly use the coping mechanisms that were offered to me over ten years ago. The camps were such a positive impact in my life that I joined as a volunteer. " Payton, past camper and current volunteer.