Wings of Hope School-Based Grief Counseling
Where students find a safe space to begin healing
Children and youth who have experienced the loss of an important person in their life can get extra support for their unique grieving process. If your student has lost someone close, they are invited to participate in the Wings of Hope counseling groups offered at their school. Groups run once a week for six weeks and can be supplemented with individual counseling as needed. It is natural to feel helpless when faced with the enormity of grief, but participating in these groups can have positive impacts on children. Although there is no magic solution, kids participating in Wings of Hope often get better grades, are more social, and enjoy school; resulting in a healthier outlook on life. Our aim is to provide tools that help children cope with life’s challenges.
The groups are not sad or depressing; students often turn the corner to express feelings of hope or “better” after attending the groups.
Light snacks and all supplies are provided for the group and activities.
What Parents and Guardians Can Expect if Their Student Participates:
Parents and students can expect a referral to Wings of Hope Bereavement Groups or individual sessions by family members, counselors, or Healthy Start Representatives. Before starting counseling or groups, parents/guardians will need to complete permission forms provided by the Hospice Services staff.
The Wings of Hope Bereavement Groups or individual counseling sessions are held on school campuses in a designated space, focusing on the individual needs of students. Experienced Hospice Services staff and volunteers lead age appropriate activities such as feeling charades, emotion/mood card games, memory collages, beading bracelets, or card making. Students have a space where they can feel brave and encouraged to attend the group several times, allowing them to relate to and support one another.
What Volunteers Can Expect from Participating:
Wings of Hope School Program supports the next generation of students in Lake County to have the tools and coping mechanisms to become our future leaders, educators, farmers, and much more! Our volunteers provide a positive impact and support for students as they work through their unique grief.
In many Lake County schools, students from K-12 grade receive group or individual support through The Wings of Hope School Program. After an initial orientation, ongoing training and support is provided for volunteers through monthly meetings and individual check ins.
Wings of Hope is an extraordinary service that needs to add you to our incredible team – give it a try. For more details, contact Michele at (707) 263-6222 or melola@lakecountyhospice.org.
