Testimonials

The Mark Wandall Foundation has been instrumental in helping my son process his grief. He looks forward to the monthly equestrian therapy. The bond he has created with the horses and staff there, have increased his self esteem. He also can’t wait for camp each year. He is able to talk about his dad in a safe space, while also having friends and staff that genuinely care about his success. I’m so happy that we have found Melissa. She truly has been our lifeline through this journey.

Parent Testimonial

Bradenton, FL

The Mark Wandall Foundation embodies the spirit of what a Non-Profit organization was meant to be. Of all the causes a person can support in their local community, what's more important than the lives of our child? Over the years I've watched this incredible group of people reach out to those in need and make a real difference in people's lives. Now, with the Comfort Zone camp, they'll be able to make an even bigger impact into the lives of children in need of support.

Jim Galiano

Sarasota, FL

I can't thank everyone that made this possible for my family enough!!!! I look forward to this opportunity again!!!!The boys are adjusting well. Although they did attend a camp 3 months after their dad pasted, I honestly do believe this one we be the most beneficial! There is a slight change (positive) in both boys already , especially [ my oldest son ] !!! Thank you for the info for the art project and thank you abundantly from our entire household for the experience!

Parent Testimonial

from our April 2017 Camp

A huge thank you to you and the rest of the Comfort Zone team for an amazing weekend. [My sons] had a blast and can't wait to come back!! Thank you from the bottom of our hearts!

Parent Testimonial

From Our April 2017 Camp

I can't tell you how magical the two weekends at Comfort Zone Camp have been for [my children]. Yesterday when the three of us got in the car to come home, they were arguing with each other over who got the chance to share their experiences at camp first. They were so eager for me to feel the"community" that they belonged to for the past three days. That time for them is sacred. They are given time to mourn, remember, "not be okay," or "be okay." It's so important for my kiddos whose father has passed over six years ago. People in our everyday lives sometimes expect my babies to be over mourning their dad. People forget that my babies haven't seen their daddy in years, haven't climbed on his lap, welcomed him home from work, asked how much longer on a road trip, or even called out the word, "Dad." They've only heard and watched others do those "normal" things. That isn't something you ever get over with time. They have learned to live with their loss. The wonderful accepting, safe "bubble" of CZC is a priceless gift to [my children] where they can be free to think and/or talk about their dead, yes dead daddy and others in the same situation know, just know what they're feeling. Additionally, the compassionate, selfless, kind, and loving Big Buddy is available to guide and protect at any moment. And my kids had the best big buddies ever. If all of that, weren't enough, there's the professional therapists knowledgeable of grief and loss to provide strategies and let them and me know that they're healthy and they are doing okay. It's just a true gift, like no other. And for Florida, there is Melissa Wandall, the only thing I needed to hear was when my 16 year old son said, "You know that lady, Melissa, mom, she's a really nice, I mean really nice person." When a teen says that, I as a teacher to young adults, know it's rare. It holds value with me. So if you need feedback about our experience, mine, no ours is resoundingly POSITIVE! Thank you from the bottom of three grateful hearts.Oh, one more thing I need to add, my kids told me that Jessi was born to do the job she does, that absolutely no one could do it like she does:)

Parent Testimonial

from our April 2017 Camp

I wish I could eloquently articulate how impactful this experience was for me. Simply, my life has been forever changed and I am a better person for it.

Volunteer Testimonial

From Camp

This was an amazing opportunity which allowed me to feel as if I was able to help provide something meaningful to kids and teens in grief. Watching everyone work together to provide support for these children and young adults was amazing.

Volunteer Testimonial

From Camp

The kids at the camp taught me so much. I learned many things about grief that I did not know which helped me heal from the death of my father. Having a place where kids can talk to others who have lost someone is a great thing to show and express their feelings that they aren't alone, and learn how to cope with their loss.

Volunteer Testimonial

From Camp