Grief Support

When a loved one is lost too soon, children and teens often have few resources to process what happened. Left alone, they may seek comfort in unhealthy behaviors. That’s where the Children and Teen Grief Support Network comes in. Children’s Grief Support Network is a program at the Club that provides compassionate care to kids, teens, 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 children, teens and their families can engage in conversations and activities which honor their deceased loved one. By working through the grief process, children and teens can express thoughts and feelings with others who are also experiencing grief.

Before attending your first session, please contact the Director of Youth & Family Engagement, Danielle Bittelman, at danielleb@bgcosh.org or (920) 233-1414, ext. 124 to schedule a one-time orientation. You may also contact Caitlyn Cheslock, Director of Social & Emotional Wellness, at caitlync@bgcosh.org or (920) 233-1414, ext. 123.

Grief Support Groups

Children and teens 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 in Children and Teen Grief Support Network 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 groupings, for 5-18 years, are created 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
• Attend sessions as often or as long as needed

Social Media

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

Get Involved

The Children and Teen Grief Support Network 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 children, teens and families as a volunteer, please contact our Director or Youth & Family Engagment, Danielle Bittelman at danielleb@bgcosh.org or 233-1414, ext. 124.