Siblings Weekend

September 12 - 15, 2025


YMCA of the Rockies - Estes Park, CO

Registration Deadline: August 12, 2025


C.O.P.S. Siblings Weekend is planned for surviving siblings and their spouse/domestic partner* (21 years or older) of law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty, as determined by C.O.P.S. criteria. Other relatives and friends are not eligible to attend.

 

*Domestic Partner is defined as a long term committed legal or interpersonal relationship between two individuals who live together and share a common domestic life (i.e., not just a boy/girlfriend).


Testimonial from a 2024 Siblings Weekend Attendee:

“I was hesitant to come at first but ultimately decided to come because I want to start to heal. I want to find some peace with all the trauma that has happened. I truly found the whole weekend to be a life-changing event.”

What to Expect

Surviving siblings are sometimes seen as the “forgotten ones,” as they often set aside their grief to support their grieving parents, spouses, and children of the officer. 


During this weekend, you will find a safe space to connect with others who share your experiences. Licensed mental health professionals will lead various group sessions and offer optional one-on-one counseling tailored to your needs. Their goal is to equip you with valuable tools for daily life as you navigate through the uncharted waters of grief. All support sessions are coupled with wellness activities, allowing you to engage in enjoyable and challenging activities with those of similar experiences. We aspire for every sibling to leave the weekend with a renewed sense of belonging in their grief and challenges. Our goal is for you to feel genuinely heard, and supported, and to experience significant personal growth during your time with us. For a detailed schedule of events, please click here to view our sample agenda for the weekend.


What is the Cost of the Program?

Your only expense is your travel to and from the Denver Airport if you are flying or to and from the YMCA of the Rockies if you are driving. All lodging, meals and activities are provided at no cost. If you fail to cancel your attendance and you do not show up for the weekend, you could be subject to a participation fee for the following year’s weekend.




Session Examples:

  • The Challenge of Family After the Loss of a Sibling
  • When I Can’t Think Anymore
  • Guilt and Regret - Confronting the “Shoulds”
  • Releasing Anxiety
  • Where Did My Parents Go?
  • How Much Grief Can a Relationship Manage?

Travel Information

If you are flying: you should plan to arrive at Denver International Airport (DEN) between 9:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. on Friday, September 12. You will be met by a C.O.P.S. representative at the airport and transported to the YMCA of the Rockies by bus. You will be transported back to the Denver Airport on Monday, September 15, by 11:00 a.m. Please be sure your return flight is AFTER 12:00 p.m. to allow time for check-in and security checks.


If you are driving: You will need to arrive at the YMCA of the Rockies by 6:00 p.m. on Friday, September 12, and stay through breakfast on Monday, September 15. Meals and activities are planned; no late arrivals or early departures please.


Limited travel assistance may be available. Contact your local C.O.P.S. Chapter or contact the C.O.P.S. National Office for additional information.




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