Fall and the holidays can hit hard for anyone who has lost someone they love. Chesapeake Life Center is running a full slate of workshops and support groups from October through December to help people process grief during this tough stretch. Many events are free or low-cost, and both in-person and virtual options are available.
Quick Take
- Chesapeake Life Center offers grief workshops and support groups across Calvert, Anne Arundel, Prince George's and Charles counties in Maryland, October through December.
- Programs include art therapy, nature walks, blanket-making, karaoke nights and pillow-making using a loved one's clothing.
- Support groups cover specific losses: spouse, parent, child, and caregiving for a dying family member.
- Most events cost $0 to $40; several are free, including drop-in groups and virtual sessions.
- Registration is required for most programs by calling 1-888-501-7077 or emailing the center.
Hands-On Workshops for Healing
Several events let people make something with their hands while working through grief. The Memory Pillow Making Workshop turns a loved one's shirt into a keepsake pillow. No sewing skill needed. It happens Oct. 24 in Pasadena for $10.
Other hands-on options include a chunky blanket-making session on Oct. 13 ($40), a garden journaling and pressed-flower card workshop on Oct. 10 ($10), and a plant-potting event on Oct. 17 (free). Each one pairs a simple craft with time to reflect and connect with others who understand loss.
"This workshop explores what to expect from grief and strategies to manage holiday stress, schedules, invitations, interactions and traditions."
That line describes the Handling the Holidays workshop on Oct. 24, but it sums up the goal of the whole season's programming: give people real tools, not just sympathy.
Programs Made for Kids and Families
Grief doesn't skip kids, and this schedule doesn't either. Little Pumpkins, Big Feelings (Oct. 22) mixes a movie, pumpkin painting and a nature walk for children ages 6 to 18. It's free.
A Blue Christmas Family Karaoke on Dec. 8 lets families sing a loved one's favorite songs together during the holidays. It's also free and open to all ages.
Support Groups by Type of Loss
For people who want to talk with others facing a similar loss, several groups meet regularly:
| Group | Who It's For | Schedule |
|---|---|---|
| Loss of Life Partner/Spouse | Lost a spouse within the last year | Dec. 3, Waldorf |
| Loss of Parent Support Group | Adults grieving a parent | Second Wednesday monthly |
| Child Loss Support Group | Parents who lost a child | Oct. 19, Nov. 16 |
| Caring for the Caregiver | Family caregivers of hospice patients | Monthly via Zoom |
Drop-in groups with no registration also meet weekly across Calvert County senior centers, free of charge.
What's Next
These programs run through December, giving people ongoing places to turn as the holidays approach. Anyone interested can register by calling 1-888-501-7077 or checking the full schedule online at Hospice of the Chesapeake's website.
