Tutoring
According to a nationwide survey conducted by New York Life Foundation and American Federation of Teachers (2012), classroom teachers report that students who have lost a parent, guardian or sibling typically exhibit the following signs: difficulty concentrating in class, withdrawal/disengagement, less class participation, absenteeism, decrease in quality of work, and less reliability in turning in assignments.
At Brighter Days Grief Center, we understand the great need for strong academic support to make sure these numbers are reduced on a local and national level. By partnering with Academic All Star Tutoring, we will offer qualifying youth the ability to get the extra help they need at our center, in the home, or at a designated meeting spot determined by the parent.
Activity
Aside from the peer-based events and activities, our partnership with the YMCA Greater Twin Cities provides an array of opportunities. Whether it is before/after school care, special events, summer activities, or camps, together we are committed to providing healthy and positive engagement for the families of Brighter Days Grief Center.
Special Events
We received our approval for an incredible program that allows children and their families to enjoy free tickets to significant events and activities. This partnership with Tickets for Kids gives the staff at Brighter Days a wonderful opportunity to give our special families a night to remember. Events include Timberwolves and Gopher basketball, hockey games, Twins games, concerts, Disney on Ice, theater performances, and much more.
Scholarships
When it comes to being eligible for a scholarship, the specifics are important. You may be able to find scholarships by searching for organizations related to your parent's cause of death; you may also be eligible for need-based scholarships. For Eden Prairie High School students whom have lost a parent or sibling during their high school term, please review our Brighter Days Grief Center college scholarship opportunity.
Internships
Our pay it forward mentality with our volunteers blends with our internship program offering young adults the opportunity to build their resume while working for a great cause! If you are interested in peer-based mentoring, marketing, fundraising, social media, public speaking, or web design please let us know!
Young Adult Connections
Young adults are often overlooked when it comes to losing a parent or sibling at this stage in life. We are looking for passionate ambassadors to spread our message, and to create peer-based support groups throughout college campuses. Please email info@bdgc.us to learn more.
Another opportunity to connect with others that have lost a parent or sibling is the Children's Grief Connection camp for emerging adults (ages 18-24). Participants spend the weekend speaking to the issues and concerns that have developed since their loved one died.
Mortgage/Rent Assistance
We understand that the financial stress can feel overwhelming, and we believe a family should be able to stay in their home when possible. We are working hard to secure partnerships with banks, organizations, foundations, and other non-profits to provide assistance to qualifying families that need help with mortgage or rent payments. Please contact us for guidelines.
Men’s Program
Our Men's Program helps develop a support system by participation in group events like sports outings, coffee groups, dinners out, or just getting together to help another widow or widower with home repair projects. Research shows that men are less likely to join a support group but will naturally start talking about their experience in a casual setting. We hope by providing a less formal environment men will find a healthy outlet for their grief while connecting to others.
Women’s Program
Following some of the same guidelines from the Men’s Program, this program provides women the opportunity to bond with others who have gone through something similar. By providing events at our center and within the community, we believe that women will develop a natural support system that gives them the ability to draw upon the strength and experiences of others. We encourage ideas and suggestions; running club, book club, potlucks, and weekend retreats are just a few!
Volunteer
While we know that our volunteers will consist of many different types and ages of people, we believe that the majority will consist of others that have gone through a painful loss. Many have found by paying it forward and helping others that it can be a rewarding and healthy outlet. Please see our Get Involved section to learn about our many volunteer opportunities.
Events
We encourage our families to participate in our events as a way to connect with others, find support, and have some fun. We also invite suggestions for any events you would like to see or that you are willing to help plan.