Grief is a universal human experience, yet it is often misunderstood, overlooked, or even stigmatized in our society. The pain of loss, whether it be the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, the loss of a job, or any other significant life change can be deeply debilitating.
Griefwalk, a non-profit charity, supported by Lakeside Church in Guelph helps people walk through life’s losses. Griefwalk Program Director, Elizabeth Lengyel says, “Griefwalk was launched in 2010 out of a desire to care for the broken-hearted. Our organization offers a safe place to find understanding, hope, care, and compassion on grief’s journey. Through our support groups we help individuals struggling with profound sorrow and disorientation navigate the emotions and challenges that accompany grief.”
You’re not alone
It is in such times of vulnerability and need that Griefwalk plays a crucial role in providing support, guidance, and resources to those who are dealing with the aftermath of loss. No matter where you are on your grief journey, Griefwalk has programs to help, including,
- Bereavement loss support
- Companion support
- Job Loss support
- Grief counselling referrals
- Educational seminars and resources
Griefwalk is a beacon of empathy and understanding, reminding all of us that in times of sorrow we are never truly alone. Elizabeth Lengyel lost her mother several years ago.
She says, “At some point, everyone is touched by the loss of a loved one and if we haven’t yet, we will be. Life is never the same after we’ve lost a loved one.
Griefwalk operates on a peer-based model in which trained facilitators support participants in their grief journey. As an example, following the completion of the 8-week program, a group of widows maintained the relationships they formed by routinely gathering for lunch or coffee to support each other. Mothers who’ve lost adult children also formed bonds beyond Griefwalk.
Lengyel adds, “It’s validating to know that they’re not alone and it strengthens them to know that others are walking the same journey.” Central to the work of Griefwalk is providing a supportive community where individuals can connect with others who share similar experiences and struggles. No matter where people are on their grief journey, Griefwalk offers programs, support groups, and resources to help.
Through its compassionate approach, inclusive community, and comprehensive support services, Griefwalk offers a lifeline to the broken-hearted, guiding them toward a place of healing and health. Lengyel says, “We can all experience healing from life’s losses, and we believe healing is better done alongside other people who understand and provide a compassionate and open heart, in a place of refuge where healing can be supported.”
All Griefwalk programs are free of charge, with the exception of Healing with Horses, a horse therapy program. Lengyel says, “Griefwalk support groups are free to anyone experiencing a loss. We want to keep it free because you shouldn’t have to worry about paying money to help you heal from a loss.” Griefwalk can provide these valuable services because of the tremendous support from the community.
Golf for Griefwalk Tournament
Golf for Griefwalk Tournament is the charity’s most significant fundraising event. The support group leaders are volunteers but there are significant operating expenses in running an organization that offers a variety of weekly meetings. Elizabeth Lengyel points out that Golf for Griefwalk is more than a fundraiser. She says, “We want to raise funds, but we also want to give tournament participants the opportunity to remember their loved ones while they’ve having fun playing golf.”
For $400 a participant can pay tribute to a loved one by having their name posted at a hole on the golf course. Lengyel says, “The feeling people receive when they walk up to their hole and golf in honour of their loved one is incredible.” Three years ago, a team from Toronto had a member who lost their father two weeks before the Golf for Griefwalk tournament. The teammates arranged for signage at the hole in memory of his father.
Lengyel remembers, “The son said to me, I’ve never been so touched in my entire life. We’ve got lots of those stories.” Golf tournament participants find that they have common bonds in grief. Lengyel adds, “Golf for Griefwalk is not a sad day. We make the golf tournament joyful, and we honour loved ones and celebrate that we’re still here, cherishing our memories.”
By raising awareness and funds for Griefwalk’s core services, Golf for Griefwalk plays a crucial role in destigmatizing conversations surrounding loss. In a society where discussions around grief are often met with discomfort or avoidance, this fundraiser shines a light on the importance of acknowledging and addressing the needs of individuals who are grieving.
Golf for Griefwalk Early Bird Tickets
Golf for Griefwalk Tournament Early Bird Tickets are on sale now.
Tickets purchased before April 30th are $175 per person or $700 for a team of four. For those over the age of 65, tickets are $160 per person. It you can’t make it to the event, you can support Griefwalk by sponsoring or donating directly to the organization.
Registration includes,
- Round of golf and cart
- Barbecue lunch and dinner
- Swag bag
Event activities include,
- Ladies and men’s closest to the pin
- Closest to the keg
- Putting content
- Variety of fun competition holes
- Sponsor product display/demonstration
- 50/50, silent auction and door prizes
The third annual Golf for Griefwalk will be held on Friday, September 6th at the Springfield Golf & Country Club.
Beyond its role as a fundraising event, the Golf for Griefwalk Tournament serves as a powerful symbol of community, compassion, and resilience in the face of loss. By supporting the vital work of Griefwalk, participants and supporters alike contribute to a brighter, more compassionate future for all those touched by grief.
For more information on the Golf for Griefwalk Tournament visit them online here.
Facebook: https://facebook.com/Griefwalk
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefwalk