A Bench for Bobby was created with love to honor the memory of my cousin, Bobby, by raising funds to place a memorial bench (or benches) on the beautiful campus of The Kita Center—the permanent home of Camp Kita. Camp Kita is a free summer camp for kids ages 8–17 who have lost a loved one to suicide. Because of the generosity of donors and fundraising efforts, these campers are able to find a safe, supportive community where they can process their grief, build friendships, and experience the healing power of camp life.

I lost Bobby to suicide when I was 10 years old. At that time, suicide was rarely spoken about, and there were no organizations like Camp Kita to help children like me cope with such a devastating loss. Bobby was so much more than my cousin—he was like a brother, a constant source of laughter, kindness, and support. He had one of the biggest hearts, always caring deeply for others, and he brought so much joy to everyone around him. One of Bobby’s favorite places was summer camp. He loved the friendships, the fun, and the sense of belonging that came from those summer days.

For the past four years, I have volunteered with Camp Kita each summer. During that time, I’ve met countless campers and fellow volunteers, each with their own story of loss and resilience. I’ve witnessed how this camp becomes a place of comfort and strength for children who often feel isolated in their grief. It is truly life-changing to see them find connection, healing, and hope surrounded by others who understand.

By helping us fund this bench, you are not only honoring Bobby’s life and spirit—you are also creating a lasting source of comfort for campers, families, and visitors at The Kita Center. Your gift will help provide a quiet, reflective space where those grieving can sit, remember, and find peace in nature. This bench will remind every child who passes through Camp Kita’s gates that they are not alone in their journey, and that the memory of their loved one will always be honored.

As Camp Kita prepares for its inaugural season at its permanent home on Loon Pond in Acton, Maine in the summer of 2026, your support ensures that this bench will stand as both a tribute to Bobby—one of the funniest, most caring people I’ve ever known—and a symbol of hope and healing for generations of campers to come. Together, we can create a meaningful legacy that offers love, remembrance, and comfort to all who visit The Kita Center.