Youth & Family Grief Support Group

When a loved one is lost too soon, youth often have few resources to process what happened. Left alone, they may seek comfort in unhealthy behaviors. That’s where the Boys & Girls Club’s Youth & Family Grief Support Group (formerly known as Children & Teen Grief Support Network) comes in. Our Grief Support Group is a program at the Club that provides compassionate care to youth and families in Oshkosh who have experienced a loss through education and peer group support sessions. (You do not need to be a member of the Boys & Girls Club to participate!)

Healing begins in a safe, non-judgmental space where youth their families can engage in conversations and activities which honor their deceased loved ones. By working through the grief process, individuals can express thoughts and feelings with others who are also experiencing grief.

If you’re interested in attending our Grief Support Group please fill out our Family Questionnaire Form below.

Once you’ve submitted the Family Questionnaire, a Grief Support Coordinator will contact you to schedule a one-time orientation before attending your first session. If you have questions at any time we welcome you to contact us griefsupport@bgcosh.org or contact one of our coordinators by phone at: 

Danielle Bittelman, Director of Youth & Family Engagement – (920) 233-1414, ext. 124

Caitlyn Cheslock, Director of Social & Emotional Wellness – (920) 233-1414, ext. 123

Grief Support Groups

Youth grieving a death often feel like no one understands what they are going through. And truthfully, no one’s grief is exactly the same. But those who are grieving often appreciate most being able to share with others who are also grieving a death. In support groups, there is no right or wrong way to be. They won’t be told it’s time to move on or that an emotion they have is wrong or inappropriate. Through talking and listening, they’re free to find hope and comfort in your own personal way.

Here’s how the groups work:

• Meet consistently throughout the year (typically the 2nd Thursday of every month; visit our online calendar for dates and times of meetings)
• Facilitated by trained, compassionate volunteers
• Offer a variety of age-appropriate activities for youth ages 5-18, so activities and peer discussions match developmental levels
• Make it easy for multiple family members to attend with children and teen groups running at the same time
• Provide free, onsite child care for families with children under 5 years of age
• Serve a free family-style meal prior to the start of each support group
• Attendees spend time with therapy dogs
• Attend sessions as often or as long as needed

Social Media

Connect with us on social media at facebook.com/griefsupportoshkosh.

Get Involved

The Club’s Youth & Family Grief Support Group relies heavily on volunteers. Trained volunteers facilitate small groups, greet families, serve meals, generate community support, and much more. If you would like to help grieving youth and families as a volunteer, please contact our Director of Youth & Family Engagement, Danielle Bittelman at danielleb@bgcosh.org or 233-1414, ext. 124. A background check is required.