Grief Support

WVH offers free bereavement support groups and workshops to anyone in our community who has faced the recent death of a loved one – whether or not they used WVH Hospice or Supportive Care services. Families that utilized WVH Hospice Care for their loved one also have the option of short-term counseling with our Grief Care counselors.

We understand the challenges and struggles involved in making the journey through grief. No one should have to face the journey alone. If you or someone you know is grieving the death of a loved one, please contact our Grief Care team at 503.588.3600 or 800.555.2431.

Support Groups for Adults, Children & Families

Professional bereavement counselors provide a comfortable place to learn about grief and feel the support of others in similar circumstances. Click here for a printable schedule of all support groups offered July - December 2023.

For Adults ages 18+

Six-week grief support groups are offered throughout the year for those who have lost a loved one in the previous two years. Gain support from others experiencing grief and loss as you increase your understanding of the grief process. There is no charge, but registration is required.

In-Person Group

When: Tuesdays
July 25 - August 29, 6:00 - 7:30 pm

Where: 
Willamette Vital Health

Call 503.588.3600 to register and for more information.

In-Person Group

When: Tuesdays
Nov. 14 - Dec. 19, 6:00 - 7:30 pm

Where: 
Willamette Vital Health

Call 503.588.3600 to register and for more information.

Online Grief Support Group

When: TBD

Where: Online

Call 503.588.3600 to register and for more information.

For Adults & Families with Children

Seven-week grief support groups for adults and children ages 6-17 are offered at our office location throughout the year for those who have lost a loved one in the previous two years. Children must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian to be eligible to attend. There is no charge, but please pre-register.

In-Person Group

When: Tuesdays
September 12 - October 24, 6:00 - 7:30 pm

Where: Willamette Vital Health

Call 503.588.3600 to register and for more information.

In-Person Group

When: TBD


Where: Willamette Vital Health

Call 503.588.3600 to register and for more information.

Drop-In Groups for Adults

Weekly in-person drop-in groups are available to any adult seeking support after the death of a loved one. There is no commitment to attend. Trained facilitators lead the groups, which are held at Willamette Vital Health in West Salem. Explore the grieving process in a safe, supportive environment. These meetings offer a chance to meet with others to find support and understanding for the challenges of life after a death.

In-Person Drop-In Groups

When: Thursdays, 1:00 - 2:00 pm
Second Thursday of month: creatively express grief through art when words alone seem inadequate.

Where: Willamette Vital Health

Camp Mighty Oaks for Children & Families

Each summer Camp Mighty Oaks provides an experience that supports children and families who are grieving the death of a loved one. Camp Mighty Oaks will next be held in 2024.  Call 503.588.3600 for more information.

With a theme of “connecting, remembering, healing” campers enjoy fun-filled activities:

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    Remembering loved ones
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    Making new friends
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    Laughing and having fun
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    Learning about feelings
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    Art, music, and other fun activities

Camp is open to families with children who have experienced the death of a loved one during the previous two years. Kids must be 6 years or older and accompanied by a parent or legal guardian to participate. Cost for camp is $20.00. Scholarships are available.

For more information on Camp Mighty Oaks, call 503.588.3600

Every year, generous quilters ensure that every person that attends Camp Mighty Oaks returns home with a brand new quilt, lovingly made by volunteer quilters. If you would like to donate a quilt, click here for more information.

Memorial Events and Holiday Workshops

Opportunities to honor and memorialize a loved one are available through our community memorial services and holiday grief workshops that address coping with loss. Events are typically located at Willamette Vital Health and provide an place for healing and to safely mourn your loved ones.

View our calendar for a complete list of upcoming events.

Grief in Residential Care Settings

For many people who live and work in a care facility or group home, residents and staff are like an extended family. Staff and residents are welcome to attend any of our grief support groups and community events. We offer individualized, on-site educational presentations and grief support for residents and staff of communities located in our service area.
Subjects covered can include:

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    Supporting staff & residents during times of loss
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    Grieving process dynamics
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    Grief support resources
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    Memorial services and focused activities designed to facilitate remembering and healing also are available