Program Services
Group Format & Structure
Josie’s Place currently offers virtual support groups twice a month in the evening to provide space for bereaved families to share their grief, together. Carefully screened and trained volunteer facilitators create a safe environment to support the grieving process of the group members.
We currently offer both virtual groups and in-person groups to support our families. Our virtual Zoom groups meet the following days and times:
- Younger Kids Group (ages 6-8) - 2nd & 4th Mondays from 6:30 - 7:30 pm
- Older Kids Group (ages 9-14) - 2nd & 4th Thursdays from 7 - 8:15 pm
- Teen Group (high school, grades 9-12) - 1st & 3rd Thursdays from 7 - 8 pm
- Young Adult Group (ages 18-24) - 1st Tuesdays from 7 - 8:30 pm
- Caregiver Group for partner loss - 1st & 3rd Wednesdays from 7 - 8:30 pm
Our in-person groups meet concurrently in separate rooms at our space in the Inner Sunset of San Francisco on the following days and times:
- Kids Group (ages 6-12) - 2nd & 4th Tuesdays from 6:30 - 8 pm
- Caregiver Group for partner loss - 2nd & 4th Tuesdays from 6:30 - 8 pm
Please note our group schedules may change to accommodate holidays.
The facilitator to child ratio is generally 1:2 volunteers to child.
Children’s Groups
In "talking circles" participants tell their stories of loss, recall memories, and express feelings associated with grief. Topics related to loss and activities such as art projects, letter writing, and dramatic play allow participants to explore, express and share their grief in peer group settings.
Parent/Caregivers' Group
Group members receive information on how children grieve and how to support them. The adult support group format also provides an opportunity for parents to express their own grief through discussion and mutual support.
The Value of Grief Support
- Our support groups normalize the grief process, help counter grieving children’s sense of isolation – they learn they are not “alone” - and provide outlets for creative expression of grief.
- Our groups offer children new ways of understanding themselves and their loss, help build self-esteem, and strengthen their resilience. Parents or caregivers meet in concurrent groups. Because the whole family is supported, family ties are often strengthened as members grow together through their shared grief.
Joining our groups
To refer yourself, your family, or another family to Josie's Place, please contact us via josiesplace@sunsetyouthservices.org or 415-513-6343. Our groups accept new members on an ongoing basis as space is available. Prospective members should expect to complete an intake process prior to joining their groups. Please note that our in-person groups typically have a waitlist.
Josie's Place
