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Elizabeth Sullivan

Program Manager

 

What do you do at Comfort Zone?

My main role is working with and being a resource to our volunteers. In the Virginia office I work to recruit new volunteers while maintaining our already established volunteer community. I conduct volunteer trainings, hold pre-camp “meet and greets” before camp sessions, and try to organize post-camp reunion activities so volunteers can get together after a camp. I also participate in the matching of Big and Little buddies before each camp session.

 

What do you do at camp?

At camp, I am the go-to person for all of the volunteers. If they need help with anything, I am there to assist in any way I can. I get to interact with the campers and volunteers by leading games and activities over the course of the weekend, making announcements, and helping to lead our Saturday night bonfire.

 

How did you become involved with Comfort Zone?

I became involved with Comfort Zone as a camper. Six months after my dad passed away, my mom brought my sister and me to the first session of CZC (then Camp Comfort) in May of 1999. I didn’t want to go, but after that weekend my life was changed forever and I wanted to come back as often as I could!  When I was old enough, I returned to volunteer as a Junior Counselor and a Big Buddy, and now I am fortunate enough to work for this incredible organization.

 

What is your favorite thing about Comfort Zone camp?

The amazing community that these kids are introduced to. There is no way to describe the validation and encouragement one feels when they enter into a group of people that are able to understand them in a way others can’t.

 

What is your favorite camp activity?

The bonfire!  It is so much fun to go crazy and sing songs with the kids, and then see the amazing transition to a sacred and heartfelt time of remembrance of their loved ones.

 

Describe Comfort Zone Camp in one word.

Magical.

 

Is there anything else you’d like to let parents who are considering Comfort Zone Camp know?

Speaking as someone who went to Comfort Zone as a camper, sending your child here is an incredible opportunity. Your lives will be changed forever.

 

 

Michelle Taylor

 

Intake Coordinator

 

What is your role at Comfort Zone?

As the Intake Coordinator, my main responsibility is to facilitate the intake process. I work directly with the camper families to ensure that their children have the opportunity to experience Comfort Zone Camp. On a day-to-day basis, I conduct phone interviews with parents/guardians, collaborate with other community and mental health professionals, represent the campers in the matching process, and manage other camp-related communications.

 

What do you do at camp?

At camp, I am the go-to person for all of the Big Buddies and Healing Circle Leaders if they have a question or concern about a camper. Since I have facilitated the camper intake process, I am the most familiar with each camper’s story. We work as a team to ensure that each camper experiences Comfort Zone in a safe and meaningful way. In addition to this, I manage the camper check-in on Friday and the check-out on Sunday, educate the parents/guardians about the camp weekend and agenda, and assist Elizabeth in the facilitation of the camp weekend.

 

How did you become involved with Comfort Zone?

I began volunteering for Comfort Zone in February of 2011. I have worked in the mental health field for many years and when I learned about Comfort Zone Camp, I made the transition into the non-profit sector. The mission of Comfort Zone spoke to me because I lost my father at the age of 10. Because I never had the opportunity to attend a place like Comfort Zone, I feel grateful to be a part of a program that provides the opportunity for children to begin their grief journey.

 

What is your favorite thing about Comfort Zone Camp?

Bearing witness to its realness. This is so evident when you speak to our campers, their families, and volunteers after a camp weekend. I have never seen so many people sign up again and again and again and again just to share the experience of Comfort Zone Camp yet again. It’s truly real and amazing.

 

What is your favorite camp activity?

Well….I have two. The first happens at the Bonfire on Saturday night. I LOVE watching Elizabeth lead the “Head and shoulders baby 1, 2, 3” song. This activity really engages everyone and is a favorite for all. My second favorite camp activity is the Memorial Service. While it can be a bit of a tear jerker, it’s a moving experience. To know more…you’ll have to come out to camp!

 

Describe Comfort Zone Camp in one word.

Relief.

 

Is there anything else you’d like to let parents who are considering Comfort Zone Camp know?

It is not uncommon for your child to be resistant to the idea of coming to a bereavement camp. Please contact me directly to talk more about how you can start discussion about Comfort Zone Camp in your home. You don’t have to have all of the answers for your child…let’s work as a team to get them started on their grief journey.