Imagine Trains Nearly 50 People to Support Neighbors Through Grief

Newly trained adult facilitators are now leading peer support groups for children, teens, young adults and caregivers navigating loss. Teen volunteers co-facilitate groups for younger children alongside adult facilitators.

Under the leadership of Training and Education Director Veronica C. Ortiz and Clinical Program Supervisor Abigail Priece, 13 community members completed training as Loss and Grief Specialists. The training provided practical skills to help them support people grieving in their schools and workplaces.

Imagine also welcomed 12 new adult volunteers and 23 teen facilitators, its largest youth training group to date. Another 12 teenagers joined a waiting list, reflecting strong interest among young people in helping others.

The organization is planning its next adult facilitator training for December 4–6, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. Its next youth training is planned for next summer.

Imagine offers free, year-round grief support groups for children ages 3–18 and young adults ages 19–30 coping with a death, along with groups for participating children’s parents and caregivers. Services are offered in English and Spanish, with centers in Mountainside and Newark and virtual groups available.

To learn more about volunteering or support services, contact info@imaginenj.org or call 908-264-3100.