Occasionally it’s useful to look at volunteering from the lens of “What are we doing here?” We don’t mean that in an existential, life purpose way — although that’s super interesting too — but more in the sense of what exactly are we trying to do when we facilitate peer support groups for children, teens, and families who are grieving?

Here’s our take: we are working to create an atmosphere that feels different than what people usually encounter in daily life, especially when it comes to grief. Rather than assumptions, platitudes, advice, or forced silver linings, we strive for connection, acknowledgment, understanding, and acceptance. A lot goes into fostering this kind of environment. We pay close attention to ourselves and others. We deeply listen. We facilitate safe, supportive conversations. We also hand out snacks, pass tissues, cheer on foosball games, and remain steady in the face of difficult emotions.

Easy right? Thankfully, the skills of awareness, reflection, asking questions, and group facilitation provide us with the tools needed for these efforts. While other Facilitator Tips explore these skills in more depth, we thought it would be helpful to have a general review of them in one place...continue reading...