Offering support to grieving youth

Huntington University is hosting a symposium on helping youth through the grieving process Oct. 13 between 9:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.

The NOW WHAT? Supporting Youth Through Times of Death and Loss Bereavement Symposium is free of charge, and features Gerry Lougheed Jr., founder of the Bereavement Foundation of Sudbury, and author Katherine Ashenburg.

The day’s agenda is set to explore the experience of bereaved youth and identify ways to provide appropriate support, stated a press release.

The sessions are designed to give participants the opportunity to equip themselves with knowledge about bereavement, while gaining support in a group setting.

Dr. Kevin McCormick, president and vice-chancellor of Huntington University, said he is pleased Huntington is hosting the event.

Huntington University is committed to supporting community initiatives such as this bereavement workshop as it demonstrates our commitment to community engagement and training.”

Lougheed will offer a keynote address that will focus on how less is more when providing support to those who are bereaved.

“Bereavement is a normal and highly personal response to loss. It is a natural process that can lead to personal growth and healing.” Lougheed said. “This symposium will allow us a forum for knowledge exchange on bereavement as well as a safe space to increase individual’s comfort level when speaking about bereavement and how it affects our youth”.

Following Lougheed’s presentation, Ashenburg will offer insight to the many ways youth mourn.

She will also provide examples of time-honored rituals and customs, and how they are being rediscovered in the 21st century.

In addition, participants will hear from community guest speakers on topics that include: Journey to the Spirit World: First Nations Healing Ways; From Pain to Hope: Walking Alongside Youth who are Grieving; and Life Crises.

For more information and to register online, please visit www.huntingtonu.ca. The deadline to register is Oct. 6.