Male "Big Buddies" Needed for Children's Grief Camp (Camp Erin)

Camp Erin Oregon is a free, weekend bereavement camp for youth who are grieving the death of a significant person in their lives. Children and teens ages 6 to 17 attend a weekend camp experience that combines grief education and emotional support with fun, traditional camp activities. Led by bereavement professionals and caring volunteers, campers are provided a safe environment to explore their grief, learn essential coping skills, and make friends with peers who are also grieving.

In 2002, the first Camp Erin location was established in Everett, WA, in honor of Erin Metcalf, a family friend of Karen Phelps Moyer and Jamie Moyer who lost her battle with cancer at age 17. Erin’s wish was to help other children coping with a loss. Through a network of partnerships with bereavement programs in local communities across the US and Canada, as well as the support of Eluna Network, Camp Erin brings hope and healing to thousands of children and families annually.

Since 2005, Camp Erin Portland has been serving Oregonians from all across the state. You can find more information on our website: https://www.providence.org/camperin.

The interview, onboarding, and training process includes a health screening and background check. Interviews and trainings occur throughout the winter and spring, and Camp Erin 2026 is taking place from Friday, June 19th through Sunday, June 21st, 2026 right outside of Oregon City in Clackamas County.

We welcome and encourage volunteers with all identities and from all backgrounds to apply. We aim for inclusiveness of campers, staff, and volunteers.