How can VGS help me with my grief?
Our support groups are structured so that participants receive practical information and tools to
help in coping with loss, a chance to connect with others who are struggling, and week-to-week
practices to help in processing grief.
Our groups meet once a week for six weeks. Each session begins with information about the
grieving process and its psychological, emotional, and physical effects. Participants are
invited to gather in small groups to discuss their experiences. There is no obligation to speak
and everything shared is confidential. We create a safe environment that allows participants to
explore thoughts and feelings and to create community in the sharing of whatever arises.
Do you offer counselling?
We do not offer counselling but can provide a list of licensed grief counsellors in the area.
When and where are the next support groups?
Please see the Support Groups page for information on upcoming
groups.
How much does it cost to participate?
As we do not receive any public funding, we charge $225 to attend a six-week grief group. This
fee includes materials presented during the sessions, a follow-up meeting, and an annual holiday
event in December. It also allows participants to become involved with an ongoing monthly grief
circle held via video conferencing. If cost is a factor, the intake facilitator conducting
registration can discuss options with you.
How do I register?
Please use the Register button on the Support Groups page and complete the form. A facilitator
will contact you via email regarding your request.
Can I talk with someone about the program?
Yes. Please feel free to contact us by email at vancouvergriefsociety@gmail.com or leave a
voicemail at 604-696-1060. One of our facilitators will set up a time to talk by phone to learn
more about your loss and see if the program is a good fit for you at this time.
How many participants are in a group?
Groups are 6-12 participants. In order to promote an environment of trust and safety and to build
structure with the materials we present, groups are closed after the first session.
What is the average age of the participants?
Given the different composition of each group there is no average age. Some groups have a greater
number of younger people while in others the older participants predominate. Because we support
anyone grieving the loss of an important person, participants might be attending due to the loss
of a child, friend, parent, or partner (or someone else). This results in groups with mixed ages
and a variety of losses. Participants must be 19+ years to attend a support group.
May I participate with a family member or friend who has experienced the same loss?
Participating with a family member or friend is addressed on a case-by-case basis and can be
discussed with the intake facilitator.
Are the groups based on any faith or religion?
No, we are a non-sectarian organization.
How long are the groups?
Each group runs for six weeks.
How many times a year are the groups offered?
We offer six groups per year. Three are held downtown and three are in Kerrisdale in the late
winter/early spring, summer, and fall. Please see the Support
Groups page for information on upcoming groups.
I'm interested in becoming a support group facilitator. What's involved?
Our training program requires completion of our 12-hour Grief Education Workshop, typically
offered every year, and our Facilitator in Training (FiT) program, which involves 60 hours of
hands-on training. Please feel free to reach out to us at vancouvergriefsociety@gmail.com or leave a
voicemail at 604-696-1060. One of our facilitators will set up a time to talk by phone with you.
What kinds of workshops and presentations do you offer in the community?
We deliver half- and full-day workshops and 2-hour presentations to healthcare teams, emergency
responders, senior care facility staff, and others. We offer similar programs to businesses and
corporations and can tailor a workshop or presentation to staff of any size from 10 to 50. We
also offer presentations to seniors, community centre groups, and schools.
Once a year we also offer a two-day, 12-hour Grief Education Workshop. The GEW gives a
comprehensive overview of grief and bereavement for those looking to support someone who's
undergone a significant loss. Designed for general audiences, the workshop is particularly
relevant for professionals in hospice, counseling, healthcare, and social services. This workshop
is required for those interested in becoming a VGS facilitator.
For information on community workshops, presentations, or the GEW, please fill out the request
for information here and we'll be in touch.
How can my organization partner with VGS?
Please contact us to discuss partnering opportunities by sending us an email at vancouvergriefsociety@gmail.com or leaving a message at 604-696-1060.
How can I support VGS?
As a small nonprofit that receives no public funding, we are grateful for any support you might
offer. Financial support can come in the form of outright donations, legacy gifts, or gifts of
stocks or bonds. We welcome your interest in volunteering with the VGS, training to become a
facilitator, or, if you belong to a grief organization, partnering with us.
Do you issue tax receipts?
Yes. As VGS is a registered charity, we issue tax receipts for donations of any amount.
I'm interested in making a donation to the Vancouver Grief Society. How can I do that?
We sincerely appreciate your support. Donate by e-transfer (preferred) to vgspayment@gmail.com or donate via PayPal using this link.
What are the benefits of becoming a member?
Annual membership is $28. Members are entitled to voting privileges at our Annual General
Meeting, invitations to special events, and receipt of the Society newsletter. Members also
receive an annual 15% discount on a grief support group registration fee for themselves, a
family member, or friend.
Use this form to become a new member or to renew your membership.
I'm interested in volunteer opportunities with the Vancouver Grief Society. Can I speak to
someone about that?
Absolutely! Please send us an email at vancouvergriefsociety@gmail.com or leave a
message at 604-696-1060.
