The Collective for Hope celebrated a huge milestone on Tuesday, June 17th when they broke ground for their first ever permanent home called the Family Grief Center. Speakers at the ceremony included John Ewing, Mayor of Omaha, Cliff McEvoy, Executive Director of the Collective for Hope, Kyle Salem, Ph.D., Board President, and Angie Hanson, a client of The Collective of Hope.
The Center, which was is intentionally designed with the grieving community in mind, will be located at 8000 Chicago Street. The new facility will accommodate workshops, grief education symposiums, family sessions, and safe spaces for specialized groups. It will also feature a large kitchen and outdoor space for programming.
Here is more information about The Collective for Hope and its mission through an interview with Executive Director Cliff McEvoy.
Tell us a little about your organization and how it was formed.
The Collective for Hope was born in the 1990s when a group of parents, seeking grief support for their children, couldn’t find resources in Omaha so they created them. What began as a single summer grief camp under the name Ted E. Bear Hollow became a non profit in 2001. As our services expanded to include adults and entire families, we became Grief’s Journey. In 2020, we merged with HEALing Embrace to strengthen support for pregnancy and infant loss and together we became The Collective for Hope.
Who is your primary group that you serve with your organization?
We serve children ages 3 and up, teens, adults, and families who are grieving the death of someone in their lives. We are the only nonprofit in our area solely dedicated to grief support.
What makes your organization different from others with a similar focus?
What sets us apart is our inclusive, judgment-free, whole-family approach. We provide grief support to children, adults, and families all under one roof, regardless of the type of death or when it occurred.
What are some of your main fundraising events and when are they held?
Our signature fundraising event is the Comfort Food Classic that is held every spring. It’s a friendly chef competition featuring a new comfort food theme each year and it’s always a crowd favorite.
Who are the main members/leaders of your organization?
Our work is made possible by a dedicated team of staff and volunteers who facilitate support groups and special events. We are also guided by a committed Board of Directors.
Are there any local businesses that have been especially helpful in sponsoring or supporting your organization?
Children’s Nebraska has been one of our longest and most consistent community sponsors. We’re grateful for their ongoing partnership and support.
How do you get the word out about your organization?
Mostly through community outreach, partnerships, social media, and word of mouth. Many people find us after being referred by schools, therapists/counselors, doctors, clergy, or others who have attended our programs.
Where do you see your organization in five years? 10?
We envision a new Family Grief Center serving as a hub for healing, an expansion of our youth-focused activities, and a dedicated summer grief camp in Southwest Iowa.
If someone asked how they could help your organization, what would you tell them?
We’re always looking for compassionate volunteers, especially those interested in becoming grief facilitators. No experience is necessary; we provide training and ongoing support.
What are the biggest needs of your organization right now?
Our greatest need right now is volunteers to help facilitate groups and support our growing programs. Our next training session is August 21st and 22nd.
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
We believe that no one should have to grieve alone. Whether you’re looking for support or want to get involved, there’s a place for you at The Collective for Hope.