One of my clients lost her husband and wanted me to share with others about how Griefshare.org helped her. Here are her words:
The website for griefshare.org and the classes offered at the churches are not just for the loss of a spouse. It is for any family member that has passed away, children, siblings, etc. It is free and there is no commitment for the daily emails. You can pay for the group, receive your book and stop going if you wish.
You can go to the find a group tab or you can simply go to the healing tab to sign up for daily encouragement emails. It is free. There are also free video clips that you can view.
The group I went to was a two hour class every Wednesday morning. I call it a class and they call it a group session. They also have an evening class, you are not locked in to day or evening. You can go to one or the other or both!
All churches vary on their hours. The one I attended was run by two ladies, Julie and Pat who are widows and lost their husbands 10 and 12 years ago. They are volunteers and are not licensed or certified. They have coffee and desserts every class. They give you a name tag, show videos and go around the room giving a chance for everyone to speak.
It is not mandatory to speak, some people pass on it. They take a 10-minute break after the first hour. There are men and women. There are more women than men. The cost is $20.00 and you receive a workbook to keep. The class lasts for 13 weeks. They have a one-time group class in November called “Surviving the Holidays” and I believe it costs $8.00. I think you get a small book with that.
They do encourage you to attend bingo, their over 55+ meets which offers a free lunch, their quilters group, etc. I have not been to any of those gatherings but it is nice to know it is available at anytime. I am just too busy trying to get through grieving, getting caught up on everything that I put on hold while my husband was sick to spend every second with him.
You do not have to be a member of any of these churches across the U.S. to be a part of the Griefshare groups.
I know this is a lot of information but it may be very helpful to others. Thank you for the meeting yesterday and for your expertise, kindness and guidance. You are a huge part of my life that I am starting. You have made a difference in my life.