Upcoming Summer Events

TAPS is holding their 22^nd annual national military survivor seminar May 27-30 in Arlington, Virginia. It is a time of connection, reflection and inspiration as survivors share their grief journeys. They have many events going on. The Good Grief Camp for children is full but a wait list is available. They have launched a mobile app which can be downloaded to your mobil device. Through the app, you can access events, session schedules, seminars and information about off-site activities. For first time attendees, TAPS is hosting four online video chats prior to the seminar. You can register for this by sending an email to kellie@taps.org and receive a link to attend the chat. Finally, they will be launching an online blog for Memorial Day weekend and invites you to share your story. Send the stories to chelsea@taps.org by May 13. You can also share a photo or short video or a memory or note with them on social media by using the hashtag #GratefulNation. TAPS also has information on new care groups, running with team TAPS racers, and online peer groups. This is a valuable organization for all military survivors.

Bereaved Parents USA’s conference is July 1-3 at the Wyndham Indianapolis West Hotel in Indianapolis, IN. Hotel rate is $105. Mail a photo of your child in advance for a slideshow and candlelight ceremony. Bring more than one photo to make items in memory of your child. Love in Motion, a choir that does sign language to music will be featured. Many workshops for both childless parents and those with surviving children will be held

Compassionate Friends is holding their national conference this year in Scottsdale, AZ at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess Hotel July 8-10. Registration is $90. Events such as workshops, sharing sessions, a butterfly wonderland trip, evening events, and a special visit from Olivia Newton John, Amy Sky and Beth Nielsen Chapman highlight the event. Workshops will be held each day for both childless parents and those with surviving children. Check with the hotel for room rates and availability.

Parents of Murdered Children Conference will hold their 30^th national conference July 21-24 at the Sheraton Lake Buena Vista Resort in Orlando, FL. The conference is designed for families and friends of those who have died by violence. It is a weekend of workshops, motivational speakers, sharing and interacting. It is open to all survivors, advocates, criminal justice professionals, legislators, victim service providers, educators and anyone interested in victim justice. Rooms are $99 per night which includes a resort fee of $19.95. Registration includes most meals, conference memorial book and a tote.