About The Garden
The Garden provides support to grieving young people ages 5-18, and their families following the death of someone close, including parents, siblings, other family members, or friends. We
have an on-site and virtual program for the whole family and support area schools with our outreach program. There are no limits on how, where, or when the death occurred.
We aim to give grieving young people a safe place to share, remember, and connect with others who are also grieving.
To learn more or to schedule an intake, contact our bereavement coordinator Shelly Bathe Lenn or call 413-727-5749.
As for our school-based groups, they play a crucial role in supporting grieving students as they navigate the complexities of loss. These groups offer a safe and nurturing environment where students can openly share their thoughts and memories of their special person. Meeting weekly for eight weeks within the school premises, these closed groups provide a structured space for healing and remembrance. The schools actively identify and support grieving students, ensuring they have a private and secure setting for their group sessions.
The Garden, through personalized intakes with each student, offers a comprehensive program including curriculum, dedicated staff, and necessary materials at no cost to families or the school. Recently, during a group session at an elementary school, the theme of “Worries” was explored through the reading of “Worries” by Paul Christelis, accompanied by a creative activity where each group member crafted their own worry doll. This holistic approach to grief support not only fosters emotional expression but also empowers students to cope with their emotions healthily and constructively. If your school is interested in forging a partnership with The Garden to provide this invaluable support, reach out to us today at 413-727-5749 or email Shelly Bathe Lenn.
For more information, call us at 413-727-5749 or email us. If you’re interested in volunteer opportunities at The Garden, download a volunteer application. You can also follow our Facebook page for Garden updates and more resources.
Faces of Grief Exhibit to Spotlight Personal Stories of Loss Through Photography
Cooley Dickinson VNA & Hospice and The Garden: A Center for Grieving Children and Teens are proud to announce a collaborative photography exhibit with Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) titled Faces of Grief. This exhibition will run from January 20 to February 6, 2026, at the Carberry Fine Arts Gallery on the STCC campus, with a public reception scheduled for Saturday, January 31, 2026, from 11 AM to 1 PM.
Faces of Grief invites viewers into the intimate world of loss and remembrance. Under the guidance of Professor Sondra Peron, STCC darkroom photography students will capture portraits of grieving individuals holding, wearing, or displaying objects that connect them to loved ones who have passed away. Each portrait will be developed as a gelatin silver print and gifted to the participant following the exhibition.
“Grief is often a silent experience,” says Shelly Bathe Lenn, Bereavement Coordinator at Cooley Dickinson VNA & Hospice. “This project offers a powerful way to honor those we’ve lost and to open up conversations that help us feel less alone.”
Lenn, who has led grief support groups across Western Massachusetts since 2002, uses creative rituals and dialogue to help individuals navigate the complexities of mourning. Her work with The Garden and Cooley Dickinson VNA & Hospice continues to foster healing spaces for children, teens, and adults.
The Faces of Grief exhibit aims to destigmatize grief and transform discomfort into connection. All are welcome to attend the reception and view the portraits that reflect love, memory, and resilience.
For more information or to participate, please contact Shelly Bathe Lenn at 413-727-5749.
Give to the Garden
The Garden relies on the generosity of our donors to continue providing services to grieving children and teens. Learn more about giving to The Garden.
