Grief Support

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, Families, & Children

Professional bereavement counselors provide a comfortable place to learn about grief and feel the support of others in similar circumstances.

For Adults ages 18+

Narrative needs to change to: We offer six week grief support groups throughout the year for people who have lost someone they love. In these groups, you can talk with others who are also dealing with grief and learn more about how the grieving process works. The groups are free, but you must fill out a Pre Registration Form first. After you turn that in, we will mail you an Informed Consent form. You must complete and return this form before you are fully signed up. If we don’t get it back, you will stay on the waitlist. If you have questions about signing up, please call our Grief Care team at 503 588 3600.

For Families with Children

Family Grief Retreats are one-day events held on certain Saturdays at our West Salem location. It’s for families with children who have experienced the death of a loved one. Kids must come with a parent or legal guardian who also participates for the day. During the retreat, families take part in small groups based on age: 6-8, 9-12, 13-17 and adults. This helps everyone take part in activities that fit their age. Trained staff and volunteer lead the groups and create a safe, caring space to share feelings and support one another. Activities include age-appropriate art for kids, group discussions for adults and music therapy for all ages. The retreat is free, but you need to sign up ahead of time. Lunch is included. You can start signing up by clicking the link in the box below or by calling 503-588-3600.

Family Grief Retreat

When: April 25th, 2026
Register here: April Family Grief Retreat Registration
Where: Willamette Vital Health
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Call 503.588.3600 for more information.

Family Grief Retreat

When: July 18th, 2026
Register here:  Coming Soon
Where: Willamette Vital Health
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Call 503.588.3600 for more information.

Family Grief Retreat

Coming Soon

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. No registration necessary.

Monthly Grief Workshops

The educational workshop will cover:

• General grief information
• Common grief reactions
• The six needs of mourning
• Coping tactics
• Discussions about grief

Camp Mighty Oaks for Children & Families

Each year, 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 October 2026 (TBD).  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. Particiants must be 6 years or older and accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Cost for camp is $20.00. Scholarships are available.

For more information on Camp Mighty Oaks, please fill out this interest form.

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.

Coping with the Holidays Workshop: Saturday, November 15th, 2025
Willamette Vital Health Offices
Adults and children 6+ are invited to join in this workshop to connect with others navigating the holidays during grief. We will honor loved ones through a memorial craft for you to take home. Please call 503.588.3600 to register.
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Winter Remembrance Concert: Thursday, December 11th, December 2025
The Ike Box, 299 Cottage St NE, Salem, OR 97301
Join us for this free, family-friendly holiday concert, including music from numerous winter holiday traditions and time to honor loved ones who have died. No registration necessary.

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