On November 1, WIN will host its third annual Barrels & Bonfires at Farmacy Brewing, embracing the warm and cozy elements of fall in Baltimore County’s horse country in a relaxed and inviting setting. Guests will enjoy delicious food and music and the charm of this independent, family-owned gem of a farm-to-table brewery.
The proceeds from this year’s event will support an exciting partnership initiative between the Child Life and Therapeutic Recreation Department at Kennedy Krieger Institute and the Ronald McDonald House Charities Maryland. The two have come together to create a much-needed therapeutic intervention for the siblings of children receiving care in Kennedy Krieger’s outpatient medical clinics, their parents and caregivers, and those staying at the Ronald McDonald House:
- Sibshops are groups for siblings, ages 8 to 12, of medically complex and/or chronically ill children. The groups will focus on these siblings’ well-being, as they experience stressors and challenging emotions, just like parents and caregivers do. Siblings can feel sad, ignored, worried, angry, lonely or even guilty—all perfectly normal feelings for a child to navigate. During group sessions, siblings will play games and participate in age-appropriate activities that promote self-confidence, understanding and empathy. Through these activities, siblings will meet other children in similar situations and provide support for each other.
- Caregiver Wellness Groups are open to parents and caregivers who wish to participate in a supportive group experience while remaining on-site with their children.
- Recreation Groups will be available to patients staying at the Ronald McDonald House so their parents and caregivers can participate in the Caregiver Wellness Groups. Siblings who fall outside the age range of the Sibshops and who are at least 3 years old are welcome to participate in the Recreation Groups.
Groups like these are not covered by insurance. This is where you come in. Our vision is to provide these valuable and important services for our patients and families at no cost. Our goal is to raise funds to support all three of these groups. Funds raised will provide food, crafts, printed materials, speakers and staff member support for all three groups.
Event Co-Chairs:
Jennifer Brittingham, Dulany Dent, Alexa Grossman and Laura Wille
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Photos from Barrels & Bonfires 2023
