December Programming 2022
Holiday grief triggers are everywhere. When you open your box of decorations, you could feel some combination of overwhelming sadness, tears, nausea, and numbness. It is one of those intense reminders of your loved one’s absence. There is no right or wrong answer to grief and holiday traditions. It needs to be whatever works for you and your family. With that said, what may work for your family does not mean it won’t still be hard and painful. However, hopefully it will bring some small comfort that can exist alongside the pain. Remember us at Willow House are here through these difficult times.
A reminder that there are NO virtual support groups in December. Our regular schedule will resume in January.
Links to our social media accounts are below where you can follow for more information and reminders about groups and events.
Reach out with any questions or for more information. You can reach Willow House staff via phone at (847) 236-9300 or by email at info@willowhouse.org.
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Welcome New Families: We are so happy you chose Willow House to help you on this next stage of your Grief Journey. Please use this email to see our upcoming events, support group schedule, and resources that may feel helpful for you and your family. 💙
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Message from the Program Team:
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Dear Willow House Families,
The holiday season is upon us! On behalf of our Willow House staff, volunteers, interns, and board members, we want you all to know that we are thinking of you now and always. We are sending positive, warm, and grateful thoughts to you and your families this Winter.
This season can feel heavier and more isolating. I want this message to be a message of hope and inspiration to you as you reflect on the holiday's past and prepare for the present. Know that you are not alone this holiday season and that the Willow House community continues to be here for each and every one of you.
I give you permission to give yourself grace during the next handful of months. Give yourself grace when it comes to holding tight to traditions, give yourself grace when it comes to having enough energy to decorate the house. Know that you can say no to events and rituals that no longer serve you. You can choose to sit out this holiday season and you can also choose to create new memories and rituals. Grief is difficult, this time of year can be challenging, and we’ve all endured a lot this year. Do what feels right for you and your family.
When we reflect on this year, we think of all of you and the strength that you have shown. We see you all showing up to our support groups and spreading your smiling faces to others. We see you all reaching out when needed and respecting your boundaries when you just need a break from groups. This community drives Willow House to continue to be who we are. You are Willow House. And we are forever grateful for you sharing your grief journey with us.
Knowing that this season may come with many challenges, emotions, and maybe even some laughter, we have included some tips and resources at the end of this letter. I Hope it brings you some comfort and peace.
Wishing you all the warmest and coziest holidays,
Willow House Program Team
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For a copy of our most up-to-date calendar, Click Here for our Support Group Schedule. Please know that our calendar may still be subject to change.
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Please note that with policy and protocol updates on national, local, and organizational levels, our in-person services may be subject to change and will follow CDC guidelines regarding safety protocol (masks, social distancing, etc.). We appreciate your patience and flexibility throughout this whole process. Our top priority is to provide safe services for children and families and we will continue to assess and adjust to do so to the best of our abilities.
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We have holiday cards available! At this time we can only take cash for payment.
1 – 25 cards $2.00 ea
26- 50 cards $1.75 ea
51 – 100 cards $1.60 ea
101+ cards $1.50 ea
$3 will be added per order for shipping
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Don't want to miss a thing? Sign up for our Program Text messages here!
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In-Person Groups: January
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Family Peer Support Group
6:15 - 7:45pm
*Includes Adult Spouse Loss, Child Loss, Young Adult Peer Groups and Children's Groups
Libertyville - Monday, January 9th
Arlington Heights - Thursday, January 19th
Chicago - Thursday, January 26th
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Survivors of Suicide Loss Group
6:15 - 7:45pm
*Takes place in Bannockburn Office
Thursday, January 12th
Expressive Arts Group
6:30 - 7:45pm
*Takes place in Bannockburn Office
Monday, January 30th
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Family Peer Support Group
6:30 - 7:45pm
*Includes Adult Spouse Loss, Child Loss, Young Adult Peer Groups and Children's Groups
Virtual - Monday, January 16th
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Survivors of Suicide Loss Group
6:30 - 7:45pm
Virtual - Thursday, January 12th
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For resources and support, take a look below:
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(if you are a WH family member you would need to complete one year with WH prior to applying)
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