OUR STORY
Five of our founding members met while volunteering with another grief organization. After a few years, it was decided that that camp would unfortunately not continue. However, the five of us still felt strongly connected to that camp’s original mission to provide a place of fun and healing for children who have lost family members. In the fall of 2023, we came together and decided to create a new organization to fill that need in our community. With a lot of time and effort (and funding from generous donors), we were officially approved as a nonprofit organization in May 2024. Our first camp session held in June 2025 was a success and we’re looking forward to many more!
Our Mission and the Meaning Behind COVE
Our Mission
At COVE Connection, our mission is to inspire and empower grieving people through fostering lasting connections and renewed hope. Our mission is at the heart of everything we do, guiding our efforts to support young individuals who are coping with the loss of a loved one.
The Meaning Behind COVE
The name “COVE Connection” embodies the essence of our mission: to provide a safe and nurturing environment for those navigating the stormy seas of grief. Much like a cove offers protection and calm from the ocean’s powerful waves, our organization serves as a sanctuary where individuals can find solace, guidance, and support. The acronym COVE — Community, Overcome, Vulnerability, and Empathy — reflects our core values, ensuring that every aspect of our programs fosters a compassionate and understanding space. Born from the idea that grief comes in waves, we sought a name that would encapsulate the journey of healing, offering both safety and connection as individuals face the challenges of loss.
MEET OUR TEAM
Mandy Adams – Chair of the Board
Mandy holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Brigham Young University and spent a decade teaching in several Utah school districts. With deep personal experiences of loss, including the passing of her biological father and father, Mandy is committed to supporting others in their grief. In addition to her role as President of the Board, you’ll also find her in the COVE kitchen, as head cook. Mandy and her husband have four children. In her spare time, she loves reading, relaxing by the pool, and collecting recipes.
Zach Hales – Vice Chair of the Board
Zach brings over five years of experience in SaaS sales and a deep passion for mentoring the younger generation, shaped by his background as a high school baseball coach. After losing his father in 2018, Zach found healing and purpose as a counselor at a previous grief camp, eventually leading the counseling team. His commitment to supporting others through their grief led him to join COVE Connection, where he aims to create a safe and nurturing environment for all. An outdoor enthusiast, Zach enjoys playing sports and is excited to help COVE Connection grow into a vital resource for those navigating loss.
Chelsea Kemp – President
Chelsea graduated from Utah Valley University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management and a minor in Marketing. She currently works at Gargle, a dental marketing company, and has a passion for service and humanitarian work. Chelsea has volunteered with nonprofit organizations, including serving on the board for Be Humanitarian. Her involvement with COVE Connection began after two years of volunteering with a previous grief organization. Chelsea unfortunately lost her brother Wesley in 2018 and it is in his honor Chelsea is dedicated to helping others navigate their losses. She enjoys traveling, concerts, reading, movies, and spending time with family and friends, and is a devoted Harry Potter and Disney fan.
Stephen Scruggs – Vice President
Stephen is our new Vice President of COVE Connection. After the sudden passing of his sister Nicole, Stephen struggled to process his grief and eventually found meaningful support and connection through the COVE community. Currently studying Exercise Science at BYU, he plans to attend dental school following graduation. In his free time, Stephen enjoys playing soccer, listening to music, and spending time outdoors. His experience with loss and healing motivates him to help others feel less alone in their grief.
Madi Whiting – Secretary
Madi graduated from Utah Valley University with a degree in Behavioral Science and Family Studies. With a deep passion for helping children and families, she spent four years as a DCFS caseworker, guiding foster children toward adoption or reunification. She now focuses on raising her daughters. Madi’s connection to COVE Connection stems from the loss of her father to colon cancer when she was 16, leading her to find solace and community at a previous grief organization. As a counselor, she discovered healing by helping others navigate their grief. Now, she envisions COVE as the safe, welcoming space she needed during her own journey. In her personal life, Madi loves gardening, staying active, and engaging in meaningful conversations.
Treasurer Position Open
We are seeking a committed, experienced Treasurer to join the COVE Connection Board. If you’re interested in joing us, please fill out the application. If you have questions, please email Chelsea at chelsea@coveconnection.org.
COVE Connection is guided by a dedicated and passionate team of board members who bring a wealth of experience and commitment to our mission. Each member plays a crucial role in ensuring that our organization fulfills its purpose of supporting grieving young individuals.
