Mourning Hope is among a small handful of organizations in the Midwest with the sole purpose of bringing comfort and support during times of grief. Founded in 1994, it connects bereaved youth and adults to support groups, healing activities, grief resources and referrals. ALL programs and services are offered at no cost to participants.

To better meet the needs of Lincoln's bereaved community members, Mourning Hope would utilize UBT's $100,000 gift to implement a variety of diverse monthly programs and special events focused on all individuals and all seasons of grief. Examples include:

February: Whether it's the first Valentine's Day after the death of a partner, or decades have passed, it's only natural that people will miss their special person on this "holiday." Through a retreat at Mourning Hope, individuals can write their person a love letter, share their favorite stories with peers, and remember their loved one with intention, while continuing to celebrate the shared bond maintained even after death.

June: Father's Day is celebrated annually as a way to honor fathers across the country. But for those grieving the death of their dad, the day can also be one filled with sadness and pain. If selected for this funding, Mourning Hope will offer a fishing activity at a local lake, with fishing poles provided in partnership with a local business, volunteer opportunities for adult mentors, and opportunities to memorialize their fathers on this dedicated day.

August: Many people are familiar with daddy/daughter dances. But since gender- and relationship-specific events can be significant grief triggers for grieving families, Mourning Hope wishes to offer a more inclusive event, one where families of all shapes and sizes are welcomed. With the support of UBT, Mourning Hope will create a gala for youth and their families as an alternative to traditional gender-specific programming — allowing a safe space for all grievers.

September: Camp Erin Lincoln is a free, weekend-long bereavement camp for youth grieving the death of a significant person in their lives. Children and teens ages 6 to 17 will attend an overnight camp experience that combines emotional support with fun, traditional camp activities. UBT funding would be utilized to continue offering this camp in the Lincoln Community.

November: While Camp Erin is an ideal opportunity for young grievers, Mourning Hope wishes to offer a free, overnight camp for families grieving the death of someone from COVID-19. Led by bereavement professionals and caring volunteers, this camp will explore the unique grief of those dealing with a COVID death loss, while forming connections with other families with shared pandemic grief experiences.

Selection for this remarkable gift from UBT and our phenomenal Lincoln Community will richly expand Mourning Hope's programs and services, creating opportunities for tailored grief support events and inclusive programming for all.