*****UPCOMING EVENTS*****
~~~MINNEAPOLIS CHAPTER WALK TO REMEMBER~~~
October 13, 2024
Bassett Creek Park
5609 32nd Ave N, Crystal
-Check-in begins at Noon; Walk begins 12:30 pm-
Mark your calendar for Sunday, October 13 for our annual Minneapolis Chapter Walk to Remember. We walk to remember our children, siblings, and grandchildren who have died. Please invite family and friends to join us.
We will meet at beautiful Bassett Creek Community Park in Crystal, (same park as last year). The picnic shelter address is 5609 32nd Ave N, between Douglas Dr N and Hwy 100.
WALK LOCATION INSTRUCTIONS: IMPORTANT - DO NOT use the park entrance on 32nd Ave N near the ballfields. Turn south off 32nd Ave N. onto Welcome Ave., then turn right off Welcome Ave, to the parking area near the playground.
Meet at the picnic shelter near the parking lot, just down the trail. (Be aware that the pavement is uneven. Watch your step!)
Check-in begins at Noon; the Walk starts at 12:30 pm. It's about a one-mile stroll around the pond on an asphalt trail. Participants can repeat the jaunt as many times as you wish.
This is our Chapter’s annual Fundraiser. There is no fee to walk. We do appreciate donations to sustain the chapter. We are a recognized 501(c)(3) organization; all donations may be tax deductible. Funds received support our chapter’s many activities that assist families after the death of a child, grandchild or sibling.
Invite family and friends to join us for friendship and healing. It’s heartwarming to see a family wearing matching t-shirts or ladybug wings; others brought balloons pinned to their shirts that “lifted” their shoulders. This scenic venue offers free parking, picnic shelters, disc golf, a memorial garden, benches along the path, a new playground area, dog park, and more.
We will carry the names of our children, grandchildren and siblings on bibs provided by the chapter. Markers will be available to create and personalize your bib.
If you are unable to join us, please submit their name, and we will be honored to include them on a bib (email your child, grandchild, or sibling’s name to tcf.mpls@gmail.com)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pink Notes, Buckets o' Blooms & Sundae Scoops
In-Person Event – July 15, 2024
TCF Minneapolis Chapter invites you to our summer ritual
Bring friends and extended family to write notes to the ones we love. We will say our children, grandchildren, and siblings' names and select flowers that remind us of them. We will eat ice cream sundaes and watch bubbles fly around us. This is our time with family and friends to remember our loved ones who are not with us physically but remain ooh-so-close in our thoughts.
Bright pink notes will carry our special message to our loved ones. Participants may bring their love notes home or leave them to be recycled. Eventually that composted material will be transferred to a Minneapolis bee & butterfly-friendly community garden. Those urban garden flowers provide much needed pollinator habitat for the butterflies around us.
• In-Person event from 7-8 pm on Monday, July 15, 2024 at our meeting location: St. Joseph Parish - 8701 36th Ave N - New Hope MN 55427
• This event will take place Rain or Shine!
• The Chapter will provide everything. The event is free, but donations are always appreciated.
• Made to order Ice Cream Sundaes will be served.
RSVP by July 12 with your name and number attending. Family and friends are warmly invited.
Email tcf.mpls@gmail.com; or Call or Text our chapter phone, (612) 444-1301, to RSVP or ask any questions.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
THE COMPASSIONATE FRIENDS
47th NATIONAL CONFERENCE
July 12, 2024 - July 14, 2024
New Orleans, LA
See link below for registration and event information
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DINE TO DONATE
June 4, 2024 4 pm – 8 pm
Plymouth — 494 / Bass Lake Rd.
6175 Quinwood Lane N. Plymouth, MN
Supporting the Minneapolis Chapter of TCF
We’re excited to partner with Culver’s using their “Dine to Donate”
program. 15% of their net sales during our event at their Quinwood Ln,
Plymouth location will be donated to our Minneapolis Chapter.
We encourage you to spread the word and invite friends, family,
co-workers, (basically everyone) to join us for dinner and/or a treat on
Tuesday, JUNE 4 from 4 pm–8 pm. The more people who dine, the
more our Chapter earns! All customer sales in the dining room as well as
the drive-through will count towards our grand total. Who knew
donating could be so tasty and satisfying. Save the date and make plans
to join us! We need your help to make our fundraiser a huge success!
-------------------------------------------
Minneapolis Chapter
Remembrance Candle Lighting
Monday, December 18, 2023
Sign-in begins 6:15pm – Program begins 7:00pm
Our chapter’s remembrance candle lighting program is Monday, December 18
at our regular meeting location.
St. Joseph Parish
8701 36th Ave. N.
New Hope
PLEASE SEE THE MEETINGS TAB FOR COMPLETE DETAILS
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mark your calendar on Sunday, December 10 for the Worldwide Candle Lighting, and remember to light a candle in your home at 7 p.m. to join the wave of light circling the world as we remember all children, grandchildren and siblings who live forever in our hearts.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MINNEAPOLIS CHAPTER WALK TO REMEMBER
October 8, 2023
Bassett Creek Park
6001 32nd Ave N, Crystal
Check-in begins at Noon; Walk begins 12:30 pm
Mark your calendar for Sunday, October 8 for our annual Minneapolis Chapter Walk to Remember. We walk to remember our children, siblings, and grandchildren who have died. Please invite extended family and friends to join us. Join us at beautiful Bassett Creek Community Park in Crystal, (same park as last year). The official park address is 6001 32nd Ave. N, between Douglas Dr. N and Hwy 100. WALK LOCATION INSTRUCTIONS: IMPORTANT - DO NOT use the park entrance off 32nd Ave N. near the ballfield. Turn south off 32nd Ave N. onto Welcome Ave., turn right towards the parking area off Welcome Ave., near the playground.
Be aware that the pavement is uneven in the parking lot. Watch your step!
Meet at the picnic shelter near the parking lot, just down the trail. Check-in begins at Noon; we’ll start the Walk at 12:30 pm. It is about a one-mile-mile jaunt around the pond on an asphalt trail. Participants can repeat the jog as many times as you wish.
This is our Chapter’s annual fund raiser. There is no fee to walk. We do appreciate donations to sustain the chapter. We are a recognized 501(c)(3) organization; all donations are tax deductible. Funds received support our chapter’s many activities that assist families after the death of a child, grandchild or sibling.
Invite family and friends to join us for friendship and healing. It’s heartwarming to see a family wearing matching t-shirts or ladybug wings; others brought balloons pinned to their shirts that “lifted” their shoulders. This scenic venue offers free parking, picnic shelters, disc golf, volleyball, a memorial garden with benches, a new playground area, dog park, and more.
We will carry the names of our children, grandchildren and siblings on bibs provided by the chapter. Markers will be available to create and personalize your bib. If you are unable to join us, please submit their name, and someone will be honored to carry your loved one with us on our walk (email your child’s, grandchild’s, or sibling’s name to tcf.mpls@gmail.com).
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Please Join Us for TCF's Virtual Bereavement Support Event
November 11, 2023
The Compassionate Friends will host an online event for bereaved parents, siblings, and grandparents to receive care, support, and helpful information from others who understand. This special gathering will include workshops across a variety of grief topics plus recordings of our Keynote Presentations from TCF's 46th National Conference in Denver that was held this past summer.
Please see attached PDF for complete information.
-------------------------------------------------------
Attached is a flyer for Grief Support due to Substance Use related death. The course begins in September 2023.
The six-week series takes place over Zoom and is offered through Brighter Days Grief Center. Space is limited to a very small group and registration is required. See flyer for details and contact info.
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Love Notes, Buckets o' Blooms & Sundae Scoops
In-Person Event – July 17, 2023
TCF Minneapolis Chapter invites you to our summer ritual
Bring friends and extended family to write notes to the ones we love. We will say our children, grandchildren, and siblings names and select flowers that remind us of them. We will eat ice cream sundaes and watch bubbles fly around us. This is our time with family and friends to remember our loved ones who are not with us physically but remain ooh-so-close in our thoughts.
Bright pink notes will carry our special message to our loved ones. Participants may bring their love notes home or leave them to be recycled. Eventually that composted material will be transferred to a Minneapolis bee & butterfly-friendly community garden. Those urban garden flowers provide much needed pollinator habitat for the butterflies around us.
• In-Person event from 7-8 pm on Monday, July 17, 2023 at our usual meeting place: St. Joseph Parish - 8701 36th Ave N - New Hope MN 55427
• This event will take place Rain or Shine!
• The Chapter will provide everything. The event is free, but donations are always appreciated.
• Ice cream sundaes will be made to order and served by chapter members.
• We encourage healthy practices, such as staying home if you are sick. You are welcome to take health precautions as you choose to, including wearing a mask.
RSVP with your name and number of attendees. Extended family and friends are warmly invited.
Email tcf.mpls@gmail.com; or Call or Text our chapter phone, (612) 444-1301, to RSVP or ask any questions you may have. PLEASE RESPOND BY JULY 12.
------------------------------------------------
Brighter Days Grief Center: 5th Annual Run/Walk to Remember
Date: Saturday, May 20, 2023 Time: 9:00 am - Noon
Help raise funds for their free programs while honoring the ones we love and
miss. Our Chapter will be among the many resource tables at the event.
https://brighterdaysgriefcenter.org/event/run-walk-to-remember/
-------------------------------------------------
The International Day of Hope & Healing after Loss Conference
Date: Monday, March 6, 2023 Time: 11:00 am - 4:00 pm Central Time
A FREE online experience brought to you by the Open to Hope Foundation
with the mission of helping people find hope after loss. Expert presenters will
share their time, talents, and advice with you on the unique day.
For more info and to REGISTER: https://www.opentohope.com/conference/
------------------------------------------------
THE COMPASSIONATE FRIENDS VIRTUAL WORLDWIDE CANDLE LIGHTING on SUNDAY, DECEMBER 11th...
The Virtual Candle Lighting presented by TCF National is memorably poignant and beautifully hopeful...knowing that we are remembering our daughters and sons, sisters and brothers, granddaughters and grandsons with thousands and thousands of people around the globe who are doing the same with us. Sign up soon so you will be one of those parents, siblings, and/or grandparents coming together to remember that "their light will always shine..."
TCF’s Virtual Candle Lighting Program will be offered in 4 time zones at 7:00 pm. Please sign-up for the time zone that you are able to attend.
REGISTER FOR 7:00 PM EASTERN TIME ZONE
https://us02web.zoom.us/.../reg.../WN_g2OkTAbvSnKPYmvhIo-6QQ
REGISTER FOR 7:00 PM CENTRAL TIME ZONE
https://us02web.zoom.us/.../reg.../WN_FAAgE-2fSiKNaBxIMlM7TA
REGISTER FOR 7:00 PM MOUNTAIN TIME ZONE
https://us02web.zoom.us/.../reg.../WN_fWb_kVAGTh-RgiseCk9JNg
REGISTER FOR 7:00 PM PACIFIC TIME ZONE
https://us02web.zoom.us/.../reg.../WN_DFjwISqzQqevlZD1sUyOIA
https://us02web.zoom.us/.../reg.../WN_DFjwISqzQqevlZD1sUyOIA
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Minneapolis Chapter
Remembrance Candle Lighting
Monday, December 19, 2022
Sign-in begins 6:15pm – Program begins 7:00pm
Our chapter’s remembrance candle lighting program is Monday, December 19
at our regular meeting location.
St. Joseph Parish
8701 36th Ave. N.
New Hope
PLEASE SEE THE MEETINGS TAB FOR COMPLETE DETAILS
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Please Join Us For TCF's Fall Virtual Grief Gathering
On November 19, 2022, The Compassionate Friends will hold an online event that offers an opportunity for bereaved parents, siblings, and grandparents to come together virtually to receive care, support, and information.
This special gathering will include live, interactive workshops across a variety of grief topics plus recordings of our Keynote Presentations from TCF's 45th National Conference that was held this past summer.
Register Here:
https://web.cvent.com/.../a8994249.../regProcessStep1...
The Virtual Gathering includes over 15 workshops covering topics such as:
*After Death Communication Techniques to Engage with Your Loved Ones – Rebecca Austill-Clausen
*Coping With Suicide – Dr. Bob Baugher
*Exploring Grandparent Grief – Barb Smith
*Getting a Grip on Grief – Maggie Bauer
*Help! I’m Worried about My Teen or Young Adult Child – Dr. Gloria and Dr. Heidi Horsley
*Shame, Grief, and Love: Life Before and After a Substance-Related Death– Laura Hartless
*Surviving Your First Year– Lisa Ellison
*Struggling to Reclaim My Faith – Dennis Apple
*Why Am I Still Crazy After All These Years? – Cindy Tart and Jordon Ferber
The Complete list is on our Virtual Gathering website.
Main Session Presentations by:
Jill Colucci
Mindy Corporon
Luci Rossi
John Santoro
Meaningful grief support from the comfort of your own home.
Access to a recording of the full day event so you can listen to additional sessions.
Prices:
Early Bird Rate: $95.00 until October 19
$115.00 after October 19
If you are not able to attend the Virtual Gathering on November 19, 2022, you may still register for our event and have access to the recordings of all of the presentations until February 20, 2023.
Register Here:
--------------------------------------------------------------
Minneapolis Chapter
October 2, 2022
Bassett Creek Park
6001 32nd Ave N, Crystal
Check-in begins at Noon; Walk begins 12:30 pm
Mark your calendar for Sunday, October 2 for our annual Minneapolis Chapter Walk to Remember. We walk to remember our children, siblings, and grandchildren who have died. Please invite extended family and friends to join us.
Join us at beautiful Bassett Creek Community Park in Crystal, (same park as last year). The official park address is 6001 32nd Ave. N, between Douglas Dr. N and Hwy 100.
WALK LOCATION INSTRUCTIONS: IMPORTANT - DO NOT use the park entrance off 32nd Ave N. near the ballfield. Turn south off 32nd Ave N. onto Welcome Ave., turn right towards the parking area off Welcome Ave., near the playground. Meet at the picnic shelter near the parking lot, just down the trail.
Check-in begins at Noon; we’ll start the Walk at 12:30 pm. It’s just a quick, less than 1-mile jaunt around the pond on an asphalt trail, but we can go around as many times as you want.
COVID-19 safety protocols in effect at time of our walk will be followed. There’s plenty of room to stay physically distanced.
This is our Chapter’s annual fundraiser. There is no fee to walk, but donations are appreciated. We are a recognized 501(c)(3) organization; all donations are tax deductible. Funds received are used to support our chapter’s many activities that assist families after the death of a child, grandchild or sibling.
Invite family and friends to join us for friendship and healing. It’s heartwarming to see a family wearing matching t-shirts or ladybug wings; others brought balloons pinned to their shirts that “lifted” _their shoulders. This scenic venue offers free parking, picnic shelters, disc golf, volleyball, a memorial garden with benches, a new playground area, dog park, and more.
We will carry the names of our children, grandchildren and siblings on bibs provided by the chapter. Markers will be available to create and personalize your bib.
If you are unable to join us, please submit his or her name, and someone will be honored to carry your loved one with us on our walk (email your child’s, grandchild’s, or sibling’s name to tcf.mpls@gmail.com).
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bucket o’ Blooms, Pink Notes & Sundae Scoops
In-Person Event – July 18, 2022
TCF Minneapolis Chapter invites you to an environmentally healthy summer ritual. Bring friends and extended family to write notes to the ones we love. We will say our children and siblings names and select flowers that remind us of them. We will eat ice cream sundaes and watch bubbles fly around us. This is our time with family and friends to remember our children and siblings who are not with us physically but remain ooh-so-close in our thoughts.
Participants can bring their love notes home or leave them to be recycled. Eventually that composted material will be transferred to a Minneapolis bee and butterfly-friendly community garden. Those urban garden flowers provide much needed pollinator habitat for the butterflies around us.
This will be an In-Person event from 7-8 pm on Monday, July 18, 2022 at our usual meeting place: St. Joseph Parish – 8701 36th Ave North – New Hope MN 55427
• Pandemic health precautions, procedures and safety protocols in effect at time of the event will be followed.
• This event will take place Rain or Shine!
• The Chapter will provide everything. The event is free, but donations are always appreciated.
• Ice cream sundaes will be made to order and served by masked and gloved event committee members.
• Please stay home if you are sick.
RSVP with your name and number of attendees. Extended family and friends are warmly invited. Email tcf.mpls@gmail.com; or call or text our chapter phone line, (612) 444-1301, to RSVP or ask any questions you may have. PLEASE RESPOND BY JULY 13.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CONFERENCE REGISTRATION is now open for the 45th
TCF National Conference August 5-7, 2022 in
Houston, TX. Please see link below.
https://web.cvent.com/event/918700eb-c8c2-40f8-99cd-f84b6451e24a/summary
We'd love to have you join us! Save the date for our 45th National Conference in Houston, Texas the weekend of August 5-7, 2022. Join us at the Marriott Marquis Houston for three days of connection, community, education, and support. We are planning for our traditional, in-person national conference. Our conference room block at the Marriott Marquis will open in February and conference registration will open sometime in March. As more details are finalized they will be posted on the national TCF website and our chapter’s Facebook page and website.
TCF 45th National Conference
August 5th - 7th, 2022 in Houston, Texas!
“Love Soars Through Clouds Of Hope”
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Light a candle in your home on December 12th at 7:00 pm to join hundreds of thousands of people honor the memory of all children gone too soon. Visit compassionatefriends.org for more info.
The Compassionate Friends Worldwide Candle Lighting on the 2nd Sunday in December unites family and friends around the globe in lighting candles for one hour to honor the memories of the children, siblings, and grandchildren who left too soon.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Minneapolis Chapter
Remembrance Candle Lighting
Monday, December 20, 2021
Sign-in begins 6:30 p.m. - Program begins 7:00 p.m.
Our chapter’s annual remembrance candle lighting program is Monday, December 20 at our regular meeting location.
St. Joseph Parish
8701 36th Ave. N
New Hope
We will also hold a simultaneous Zoom connect.
This event takes the place of our regular Chapter Meeting. Parents, siblings, grandparents, family and friends are invited to join us.
The church where we meet already practices COVID-19 health and safety protocols. The compassionate staff is eager to assist at our largest annual event honoring our children/grandchildren/siblings.
We need you to RSVP in advance. Email us at tcf.mpls@gmail.com with your name and number attending in your group. Anyone not vaccinated for COVID needs to wear a mask to enter the church building. Unfortunately, because of COVID restrictions this year, we are unable to offer food and refreshments.
At 6:30 p.m. participants may sign-in at the front door of the church. A free-will offering will be appreciated to help offset program costs. Ornaments are provided (one per family) which we will personalize with your child’s name. You may take it home as a memento of the evening.
The remembrance program begins at 7:00 p.m. with beautiful live music performed by parents, friends and families in our bereaved community. Readings by TCF members will be followed by families individually lighting flameless candles in memory of our siblings and our children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews, cousins and friends. The evening will conclude with a photo slideshow presentation of our loved ones who have left too soon.
To include your loved one’s photograph in the slideshow, please email Gloria Jordan at tcf.mpls@gmail.com and reference their name and attach a photo. Send a high quality .jpg for best results. The DEADLINE is December 6. You DO NOT need to send us a photo if you have already sent one in previous years; we still have it.
If you would like to participate in the program by reading a poem or prose, email Gloria at tcf.mpls@gmail.com with your name, your loved one’s name, and the title and author of your selection. The DEADLINE is December 6 to be included in the program.
If the TCF chapter needs to postpone the event due to severe weather or COVID-19 changes, we will post a notice on our TCF chapter Facebook page and announce the change on channel KARE11 TV.
ANGEL OF HOPE CANDLELIGHT MEMORIAL
Each year on December 6th at 7:00 pm a Remembrance Vigil is held at Angel of Hope sites. The public is invited to attend a short, simple, secular outdoor ceremony in memory of children who died at any age. Candles will be provided. Attendees are invited to bring a white flower to leave at the statue’s base.
An Angel of Hope statue is located in Chanhassen, just north of downtown along Santa Vera Dr, between Powers and Kerber Blvd. Visit: williamswings.org/angel-hope/
A second Angel of Hope location is in the Maple Grove Arboretum, 9400 Fernbrook Ln N. Participants are encouraged to car pool as parking is limited. Additional parking is available across the street at the Arbor View Early Childhood Center, and at the Assembly of God Church. Afterwards, refreshments will be served across the street inside the Arbor View Childhood Center. For more information visit www.friendsoftheangel.org/ news-events/upcoming-events/annual-candlelight-vigil.
--------------------------------------------------
SUPPORT FOR MEN WHO HAVE A LOVED ONE WHO HAS DIED FROM AN ADDICTION-RELATED DEATH. HELD VIA ZOOM.
Tuesday evenings, Dec. 2021-Jan. 2022. Registration Deadline is December 10th, 2021. Space is Limited.
Please see attached flyer:
Click on PDF file to open
September 26, 2021
Bassett Creek Park
6001 32nd Ave N, Crystal MN
Check-in begins at Noon
Walk begins at 12:30 p.m.
Mark your calendar for Sunday, September 26 for our annual Minneapolis Chapter Walk to Remember. We walk to remember our children, siblings, and grandchildren who have died. Please invite extended family and friends to join us.
COVID-19 safety protocols in effect at time of our walk will be followed. There’s plenty of room to stay physically distanced.
Join us at beautiful Bassett Creek Community Park in Crystal, (same park as last year). The official park address is 6001 32nd Ave. N, between Douglas Dr. N and Hwy 100.
WALK LOCATION INSTRUCTIONS: IMPORTANT - DO NOT use the park entrance off 32nd Ave N. near the ball field. Turn south off 32nd Ave N. onto Welcome Ave., turn right towards the parking area off Welcome Ave., near the playground. Meet at the picnic shelter near the parking lot, just down the trail.
Check-in begins at Noon; we’ll start the Walk at 12:30. It’s just a quick less than 1-mile jaunt around the pond on an asphalt trail, but we can go around as many times as you want.
This is our Chapter’s annual fundraiser. There is no fee to walk, but donations are appreciated. We are a recognized 501(c)(3) organization; all donations are tax deductible. Funds received are used to support our chapter’s many activities that assist families after the death of a child, grandchild or sibling.
Invite family and friends to join us for friendship and healing. It’s heartwarming to see a family wearing matching t-shirts or ladybug wings; others brought balloons pinned to their shirts that “lifted” their shoulders. This scenic venue offers free parking, picnic shelters, disc golf, volleyball, a memorial garden with benches, a new playground area, dog park, and more.
We will carry the names of our children, grandchildren and siblings on bibs provided by the chapter.
If you are unable to join us, please submit his or her name, and someone will be honored to carry your loved one with us on our walk (email your child’s, grandchild’s, or sibling’s name to tcf.mpls@gmail.com).
ICE CREAM, BUBBLES AND NOTES TO OUR LOVED ONES
In-Person Event - July 19, 2021
TCF Minneapolis Chapter invites you to an environmentally healthy summer ritual. Bring friends and extended family members to write notes to the ones we love. We will say their names and place the notes together. We will eat ice cream sundaes and watch bubbles fly around us. This is our time to see family and friends remembering our children and siblings who are not with us physically but remain always in our hearts.
The notes will be recycled after the program. Eventually that composted material will be transferred to a Minneapolis bee and butterfly friendly community garden. Those urban garden flowers provide much needed pollinator habitat for the butterflies around us.
This will be an In-Person event from 7:00pm to 8:00pm on Monday, July 19, 2021 at our usual meeting place:
St. Joseph Parish – 8701 36th Ave North – New Hope MN 55427
All pandemic health precautions, procedures and safety protocols will be followed.
• This event will take place Rain or Shine!
• The Chapter will provide everything. The event is free, but donations are appreciated at suggested rate, $5 per adult.
• Ice cream sundaes will be prepared and served by masked and gloved event committee members.
• Face coverings are required. If you don't have one, we will provide one. Recommended for all over the age of 2.
• Maintain 6-foot physical distancing from people not in your household, upon arrival and throughout the event.
• Use Hand Sanitizer station upon entering the building.
• Bathrooms will be disinfected between use.
• Please stay home if you are sick.
RSVP with your name and number attending. Extended family is invited. Email tcf.mpls@gmail.com, or call or text our chapter phone line, (612) 444-1301, to RSVP or ask any questions you may have. Please respond by July 14th.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
NATIONAL CONFERENCE UPDATE as of 6-17-2021
THE COMPASSIONATE FRIENDS 44TH NATIONAL CONFERENCE PRESENTED VIRTUALLY JULY 16-18, 2021
REGISTRATION NOW OPEN
Early Bird Registration (register by June 25) – $80
Regular Registration (after June 25) – $95
SEE LINK BELOW -
https://www.compassionatefriends.org/event/44th-tcf-national-conference/
Dear Compassionate Friends,
As many of you know, The Compassionate Friends’ 2021 National Conference was scheduled to be held in Detroit, Michigan this July. We have been actively watching national developments and considering the many issues that are involved for determining how to proceed. As the Coronavirus pandemic continues to have strict restrictions for large gatherings, we have made the difficult decision to cancel the in-person conference in Detroit.
We recognize how disappointing this may be to many people in our TCF family as it is to all of us on our staff and board of directors. A lot of thought and consideration was given to this decision, and a number of factors were evaluated before making a final determination.
The most important consideration was whether we could ensure the safety of our members with the continuing risks and uncertainty of travel and large group gatherings. In addition to concerns for our members’ safety, some of the key factors that prohibit TCF from proceeding responsibly are:
-
Liabilities and limitations with the hotel contract, which pre-dated this unprecedented time of a pandemic
-
Limits in Detroit on the number of people who can gather in one place
-
Inability to hold any of our traditional large gatherings that are cornerstones of TCF conferences such as keynote speaker addresses, candle lighting program, large workshops, banquets, and gathering places for members
-
Inability to have enough rooms for workshops or sharing sessions when capacity in each is substantially reduced and require people to stay 6 feet apart
-
Limitations on food provided within the hotel and no options for banquet gatherings that bring us together for desired community
For those who look to our national conference each year for the important community and connection it provides, a gathering in person this year could not resemble what we have known and hold dear.
Though we cannot gather in person for the conference this year, please mark your calendars for July 16 – 18, 2021, for The Compassionate Friends Virtual National Conference.
The Compassionate Friends
2021 Virtual National Conference
July 16 – 18, 2021
When we were required to cancel last year’s national conference for the first time in 43 years, it was very hard on all of us as the national conference is such an integral and valuable part of TCF. We quickly created a virtual conference in a short amount of time because it was so important that we still be able to come together as a TCF community. With the support of many TCF volunteers working alongside TCF staff and the TCF board of directors. we did learn how to come together differently. Over 1,000 people who needed support attended last year and had an opportunity for connection. Taking all that we learned, we will build on that experience to ensure we can reach and support those who need TCF during this time.
More details will be announced soon about plans for the virtual conference. The Detroit Marriott hotel had not released our block of rooms for July, but if you made any previous arrangements, you can cancel those directly with them at this time.
We share your disappointment that more time will be needed before we can come together in person again. Please reach out with any questions you may have and know that we look forward to meeting in person as soon as it is safe and possible.
We will continue to walk this path together, so that We Need Not Walk Alone.
Warm regards,
Roy Davies
Board President on behalf of the Board of Directors
Roy and Taylor's Dad
Shari O'Loughlin, MBA, CPC
CEO, The Compassionate Friends
Connor's Mom and Patti's Sister
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Minneapolis Chapter
"Virtual"
Candle Lighting Remembrance Program Monday, December 21, 2020
7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
(UPDATED 12-19-2020)
Join us Monday, December 21, 7 p.m. for our annual Minneapolis Chapter Virtual Candle Lighting Remembrance Program. We'll gather online to light a candle so that our children, grandchildren, and siblings' light will always shine. Even though we can't be together in person, this year's virtual event will still be a heartfelt, touching tribute, including music, readings, candle lighting, and the slide show remembering our children, grandchildren, and siblings.
There are two ways to watch; via Zoom platform, and through a YouTube link. Both presentations are identical, as the leadership team pre-recorded the program. We held all of you in our hearts as we read your selections, and performed meaningful music selections.
ZOOM: You will receive an email with the link to Pre-Register for the Zoom event. Similar process as our monthly Zoom meetings. Zoom instructions will be included if you need them. After pre-registering, you will receive an email Confirmation with the link to join the Zoom event. Make sure you join the Zoom meeting early, and be ready for the video program to begin Monday at 7 pm. We will share the Candle Lighting video to your screen. During the video portion, attendees will not be seen, and will be muted. After the program ends, we will keep the Zoom meeting open for about 45 minutes if any members wish to remain online to visit, greet new members, and offer and receive support. We encourage you to attend via Zoom to help create a community of understanding and hope. You may share the Pre-Registration email with family and close friends, but in order to maintain our privacy, please do not share publicly.
YouTube: Our Candle Lighting video will be available to watch on YouTube. An email with a link will be sent Sunday night. You will click on the link and our YouTube video will open in your browser. To maintain our group's privacy, the YouTube video will be "Unlisted" and available only by using the link we provide you. You may share with family and close friends, but DO NOT share the link on public social media such as Facebook. The link will be active from Monday, 12/21, 6:45 pm through Wednesday, 12/23, 9:00 am.
Attached is the program for our Candle Lighting Program of Remembrance. You may print a copy if you wish to follow along during the event. Please let us know if you have any questions!
IMPORTANT: WATCH YOUR EMAIL FOR DETAILS AND INSTRUCTIONS. IF YOU ARE NOT ON OUR NEWSLETTER EMAIL DISTRIBUTION LIST, YOU NEED TO EMAIL tcf.mpls@gmail.com TO REQUEST A ZOOM MEETING INVITE. Pre-registration is required via emailed link.
Candle Lighting Remembrance Program
POSTED 12-2-2020: Candle Lighting Program
As the COVID-19 situation evolves alongside current mandates, we remain committed to our members' well-being. We have made the difficult decision to offer our Minneapolis Chapter's annual Candle Lighting Remembrance Program as a virtual event only, instead of in-person as originally planned.
Our Candle Lighting program will be available for our members and families to participate online through a private, secure YouTube link, our private Facebook group, and Zoom. By offering several viewing options, we hope to make it easy for everyone to attend virtually on Monday, December 21, 7:00 - 8:00 pm. Watch your email around December 16 for our Zoom invite, and YouTube link to the online event.
The church where we normally meet is providing the space to conduct our program with only the event team present, following coronavirus health protocols. With their expertise, using their updated multi-camera and sound system, we will record our candle lighting program. We are extremely grateful for their compassionate willingness to assist in bringing this special annual event to our members. The program includes readings, beautiful live vocals and instrumental music, the remembrance slideshow, and candle lighting...all the elements to create a meaningful and hope-filled event honoring our children, grandchildren, and siblings.
REMINDER: December 6 is the deadline to submit your loved one's photo for the slideshow. Email Mary Jo Peterson MJPSEW@AOL.COM a high resolution jpg, and reference your loved one's name as you wish it to appear. You do not need to send one if you have submitted a photo in recent years, we still have it.
December 6 is the deadline to submit a reading for consideration. An event team member will read it for you during the program. Reply to this email with your name, your child/grandchild/sibling's name, title and author's name, along with the reading.
We hope you will join us online December 21 for our annual gathering remembering our precious children, grandchildren, and siblings. As the date gets closer, watch your email for links and instructions to attend virtually. It you’re not on our newsletter email distribution list, please send an email to TCF.mpls.editor@gmail.com to request the link to the event. Don’t hesitate to ask us any questions!
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
On SUNDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2020 bereaved families everywhere have the opportunity to remember their children so that their lights may always shine!
Light a candle in your home at 7:00 pm, and join the wave of light circling the globe, time zone to time zone, remembering all children, siblings and grandchildren who have left too soon.
The Compassionate Friends National Organization will offer a virtual Worldwide Candle Lighting on December 13, 2020 starting at 6:45pm, CST. It will be a webinar via Zoom. You need to pre-register now to receive the link to attend. Space is limited.
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_-3XPU-K3RzGUCtSbpn_zNg
The Compassionate Friends National invites everyone to add a message to the memorial wall for the Worldwide Candle Lighting. Share a message Tuesday, December 1st, through 5:00 pm, December 18th. The National Worldwide memorial candle lighting will remain up until the Summer of 2021.
https://www.compassionatefriends.org/wcl/memorial-wall/share/
The Compassionate Friends National has a Facebook post on their TCF/USA Facebook page to share photos as well.
-------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------------
October 11, 2020
Bassett Creek Park
6001 32nd Ave N, Crystal MN
Check-in begins at Noon
Walk begins 12:30 p.m.
Mark your calendar for Sunday, October 11 for our annual Minneapolis Chapter Walk to Remember. We walk to remember our children, siblings, and grandchildren who have died. Invite extended family and friends to join us.
COVID-19 safety protocols will be followed. We will be socially distanced during the event. Please bring and wear your own mask. If you wish to sit, please bring your own lawn chairs. Portions of the park pavilion will be restricted due to COVID-19 precautions. There’s plenty of room to stay physically distanced.
Join us at beautiful Bassett Creek Community Park in Crystal, (same park as last year). The official park address is 6001 32nd Ave. N, between Douglas Dr. N and Hwy 100.
WALK LOCATION INSTRUCTIONS: IMPORTANT - DO NOT use the park entrance off 32nd Ave N. near the ball field. Turn south off 32nd Ave N. onto Welcome Ave., then turn right, towards the parking area off Welcome Ave., near the playground. Meet at the picnic shelter near the parking lot, just down the trail.
Check-in begins at Noon; we’ll start the Walk at 12:30. It’s just a quick, less than 1-mile jaunt around the pond on an asphalt trail, but we can go around as many times as you want.
This is our Chapter’s annual fund raiser. There is no fee to walk, but donations are appreciated. We are a recognized 501(c)(3) organization; all donations are tax deductible. Funds received are used to support our chapter’s many activities that assist families after the death of a child.
Invite family and friends to join us for friendship and healing. It’s heartwarming to see a family wearing matching t-shirts; others brought balloons pinned to their shirts that “lifted” their shoulders. This scenic venue offers free parking, picnic shelters, disc golf, volleyball, a memorial garden with benches, a new playground area, dog park, and more.
We will carry the names of our children and siblings on bibs provided by the chapter.
If you are unable to join us, please submit your child’s name and someone will be honored to carry your loved one with us on our walk (email your child’s or sibling’s name to tcf.mpls@gmail.com).
THE COMPASSIONATE FRIENDS 43rd NATIONAL CONFERENCE will now be a virtual conference. Dates are July 31 - August 2, 2020. Please see the following link for more information.
https://www.compassionatefriends.org/event/43rd-tcf-national-conference/
Monday, December 16, 2019
Minneapolis Chapter
Remembrance Candle Lighting
St. Joseph Parish 8701 36th Ave. N New Hope
(same location as regular meetings)
Social Hour begins at 6:00 p.m. Program begins 7:00 p.m.
This event takes the place of our regular Chapter Meeting Parents, siblings, grandparents, family
and friends are invited to join us
The evening begins at 6:00 pm with sign-in at the front door; social time begins with refreshments, apple cider and coffee until 7:00 pm. A free-will offering will be appreciated to help offset the costs. Ornaments are provided (one per family) which we will personalize with your child’s name. You may hang it on the memory tree and afterwards, take home as a memento.
The remembrance candle lighting program begins at 7:00 p.m. with beautiful music as well as readings by our members, followed by lighting of candles in remembrance of our children, grandchildren, and siblings. The evening will conclude with our photo presentation.
To include your child/grandchild/sibling’s photograph in the slide show, please email a photograph to Steve at sch2450@hotmail.com. Send a high quality .jpg for best results. The DEADLINE is December 1. You DO NOT need to send us a photo of your child if you have already sent one in previous years; we still have it.
If you would like to participate in the program by reading a poem or prose, email Gloria at with your name, the title and author of your selection. The DEADLINE is December 1 to be included in the program.
This is our largest event honoring our children, grandchildren, and siblings. We would appreciate your help! If you are able, come early to set up or stay after to help clean up. You may donate your family’s favorite sweet or savory FINGER FOODS, fruit or veggie tray, crackers or cheese, cookies, bars, or apple cider. To lend a hand, sign up at our November 18 meeting or call Carol at 763-542-8528.
If we need to postpone due to severe weather, we will post a notice on our Chapter Facebook page and channel KARE11.
On the 2nd Sunday of December, bereaved families everywhere have the opportunity to remember their children so that their lights may always shine!
Light a candle in your home at 7:00 pm, and join the wave of light circling the globe, time zone to time zone, remembering all children who have left too soon.
Every year you are invited to post a message in the online Remembrance Book which will be available, during the event, at TCF’s national website, www.compassionatefriends.org
The Remembrance Book will be open to post a message Sunday, December 1st through Monday, December 9th. Photos can be posted on TCF’s Worldwide Candle Lighting FB page.
----SEPTEMBER 2019----
MINNEAPOLIS CHAPTER ANNUAL WALK TO REMEMBER
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 2019
12:00 - 2:30pm
BASSETT CREEK PARK NORTH SHELTER
6001 32nd Ave N in CRYSTAL, MN
Mark your calendar for Sunday, September 29 for our annual Chapter Walk to Remember. We walk to remember our children, siblings, and grandchildren who have died. Invite extended family and friends to join us.
This is our Chapter’s annual fund raiser. There is no fee to walk, but donations are appreciated. We are a recognized 501(c)(3) organization; all donations are tax deductible. Funds received are used to support our chapter’s many activities that assist families after the death of a child.
Join us at beautiful Bassett Creek Community Park in Crystal, (same park as last year). The official park address is 6001 32nd Ave. N, between Douglas Dr. N and Hwy 100. See our Walk location instructions below:
WALK LOCATION INSTRUCTIONS: IMPORTANT - Do NOT use the park entrance off 32nd Ave N. near the ballfield. Turn south off 32nd Ave N. onto Welcome Ave., then turn right, towards the parking area off Welcome Ave., near the playground. Meet at the picnic shelter near the parking lot, just down the asphalt trail.
Check-in begins at Noon; we’ll start the walk at 12:30. It’s just a quick, less than 1-mile jaunt around the pond on an asphalt trail, but we can go around as many times as you want.
Invite family and friends to join us for friendship and healing. It’s heart-warming to see a family wearing matching t-shirts; others brought balloons pinned to their shirts that “lifted” their shoulders. This scenic venue offers free parking, picnic shelters, disc golf, volleyball, a memorial garden with benches, a new playground area, dog park, and more.
We will carry the names of our children on bibs provided by the chapter. If you are unable to join us, please submit your child’s name and someone will be honored to carry your child with us on our walk (email your child’s name to tcf.mpls@gmail.com).
THE COMPASSIONATE FRIENDS MINNEAPOLIS 2019 WALK TO REMEMBER
is also a fundraiser to aid our mission. Participants are encouraged to seek
donations that will go to our Minneapolis Chapter to support outreach and
Chapter activities. The attached PDF file is a form to record donations collected,
then bring with you to the walk. Any amount helps!
----OCTOBER, 2019----
TCF REGIONAL CONFERENCES
Visit www.compassionatefriends.org/events for registration details
DEEP IN THE HEART OF HOPE - Houston, TX
October 4-6, 2019
Norris Conference Center
Houston City Centre
Houston, TX 77024
$50/person For all Sharing Sessions and Workshops
$25 For Candle Lighting Dinner
$25 For Walk to Remember
MEMORIES OF LOVE, MELODIES OF HOPE - Nashville, TN
October 18, 2019 @ 12:00 PM - October 19 @ 5:30 PM
Conference: Christ Church Nashville
Sleeping Rooms: Four Points Sheraton—Brentwood
$95/person includes speakers and workshops as well as Dinner and Candle Lighting on Friday; and Continental Breakfast and Lunch on Saturday.
NATIONAL CONFERENCE JULY 19-21, 2019
Save the date for next year’s TCF National Conference in Philadelphia at the Philadelphia 201 Hotel. Join other bereaved parents, siblings, and grandparents who have found this to be a heart-warming, hopeful experience.
Watch for details to be announced on registration and room reservations at the TCF/USA Facebook page and national website under News and Events: www.compassionatefriends.org.
Balloon Release & Picnic
Monday, July 15, 2019
Experience a release of grief as we send our balloons into the sky. It’s a powerful symbolic image, lifting our pain as we watch the balloons dance out of sight.
Please note the earlier start time of 6:00 pm. The location for the Picnic and Balloon Release is the same as our regular meeting place:
St. Joseph Parish Community, 8701 36th Ave N, New Hope, MN
Once again, the Chapter will prepare all the food for the picnic. All you need to bring is your beverage. The Chapter will provide the main course, side dishes, dessert, and dinnerware, and Balloons. A donation will be appreciated to help with expenses; suggested $5/per person; 10 & under are free.
We would appreciate a few volunteers to arrive early to help set up the serving line, and/or stay after to help clean up. When you RSVP, let us know if you are able to help.
If July is a Remembrance month for you, please bring a memento or photo to display on the Remembrance Table.
Please RSVP so we can more accurately estimate food and balloons needed. RSVP by JULY 8, by Email: tcf.mpls@gmail.com or call our Chapter phone number and leave a message, (612) 444-1301.
Members and extended family are invited to join us on Monday, July 15, at 6:00 pm for our annual Picnic and Balloon Release ceremony. This event will take the place of our regular July meeting, but has an earlier start time of 6:00 pm. Dinner will be first, followed by the Balloon Release. Event will take place rain or shine; we will dine indoors.
DINE TO DONATE
July 11, 2019 5 pm - 9 pm
Plymouth — 494 / Bass Lake Rd.
6175 Quinwood Lane N. Plymouth, MN
Supporting the Minneapolis Chapter of TCF
We’re excited to partner with Culver’s Restaurants using their “Dine While You Donate” program. 15% of their net sales during our event at their Quinwood Lane, Plymouth location will be donated to our Minneapolis Chapter. This is our first fundraising effort to take place outside our chapter meetings and events.
We encourage you to spread the word and invite friends, family, co-workers, (basically everyone) to join us for dinner and/or a treat on Thursday, July 11 from 5 pm–9 pm. The more people who dine, the more our Chapter earns! All customer sales in the dining room as well as the drive-through will count towards our grand total. Who knew donating could be so tasty and satisfying.
Save the date and make plans to join us! We need your help to make our fundraiser a huge success!
----DECEMBER 2018----
CANDLE LIGHTING PROGRAM
Monday, December 17, 2018
Social Hour begins at 6:00pm; Program begins at 7:00pm
Our chapter's annual memorial candle lighting program is Monday, December 17 at our regular meeting location, St. Joseph Parish Community in New Hope. This event takes place of our regular Chapter Meeting. Parents, siblings, extended family and friends are invited to join us.
The evening begins at 6:00pm with sign-in at the front door; social time begins with refreshments, apple cider and coffee until 7:00pm. A free-will offering will be appreciated to help offset the costs. Ornaments are provided (one per family) which we will personalize with your child's name. You may hang it on the memory tree and afterwards, take home as a memento.
The remembrance candle lighting program begins at 7:00pm with beautiful music as well as readings by our members, followed by lighting of candles in remembrance of our children, grandchildren and siblings. The evening will conclude with our photo presentation.
To include your child/grandchild/sibling's photograph in the presentation, please email a photograph to Steve at sch2450@hotmailcom. Send a high quality .jpg for best results. THE DEADLINE IS DECEMBER 1. You DO NOT need to send us a photo of your child if you have already sent one in previous years; we still have it.
If you would like to participate in the program by reading a poem or prose, email Gloria at tcf.mpls.editor@gmail.com with your name, the title and author of your selection. THE DEADLINE IS DECEMBER 1 TO BE INCLUDED IN THE PROGRAM.
This is our largest event honoring our children, siblings and grandchildren. We would appreciate your help! If you are able, come early to set up or stay after to help clean up. You may donate your family's favorite sweet or savory finger foods, fruit or veggie tray, crackers or cheese, cookies, bars, or apple cider. To lend a hand, sign up at our November 19 meeting or call Carol at 763.542.8528.
If we need to postpone due to severe weather, we will post a notice on our Chapter FaceBook page and channel KARE11.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday, December 9 at 7pm TCF Worldwide Candle Lighting unites family and friends around the globe in lighting candles for one hour to honor the memories of our children, siblings, and grand-children. As candles are lit at 7 pm local time, hundreds of thousands of persons honor the memory of all children gone too soon. You are invited to post a message in the Remembrance Book which will be available during the event at TCF’s national website, compassionate friends.org.
WORLD WIDE CANDLE LIGHTING
December 9
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Each year on December 6th at 7:00 pm a candle lighting memorial is held at the Maple Grove Angel of Hope statue. The public is invited to attend this short, simple, secular outdoor ceremony in memory of children who died at any age. Candles will be provided. Attendees are invited to bring a white flower to leave at the base. Afterwards, hot drinks and treats will be served across the street inside the Childhood Center. Participants are encouraged to arrive early and car pool as parking is limited. Additional parking is available across the street at the Arbor View Early Childhood Center, 9401 Fernbrook Lane and at the Grove Christian Center, 14320 93rd Ave N. For more information contact Maple Grove Parks & Rec. Dept. at 763-494-6504.
ANGEL OF HOPE
December 6
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Minneapolis Chapter Walk to Remember
Sunday, September 23, 2018
Bassett Creek Park, Crystal MN
Check-in begins at Noon; Walk begins 12:30 p.m.
Mark your calendar for Sunday, September 23 for our annual Chapter Walk to Remember. We walk to remember our children, siblings, and grandchildren who have died. Invite extended family and friends to join us.
This is our Chapter’s annual fund raiser. There is no fee to walk, but donations are appreciated. We are a recognized 501(c)(3) organization; all donations are tax deductible. Funds received are used to support our chapter’s many activities that assist families after the death of a child.
Join us at beautiful Bassett Creek Community Park in Crystal, (same park as last year). The official park address is 6001 32nd Ave. N, between Douglas Dr. N and Hwy 100. See our Walk location instructions below.
WALK LOCATION INSTRUCTIONS: IMPORTANT - Do NOT use the park entrance off 32nd Ave N. near the ballfield. Turn south off 32nd Ave N. onto Welcome Ave., then turn right, towards the parking area off Welcome Ave., near the playground. Meet at the picnic shelter near the parking lot, just down the asphalt trail.
Check-in begins at Noon - We’ll start the walk at 12:30. It’s just a quick, less than 1-mile jaunt around the pond on an asphalt trail, but we can go around as many (or few :) times as you want.
Invite family and friends to join us for friendship and healing. It’s heartwarming to see a family wearing matching t-shirts; others brought balloons pinned to their shirts that “lifted” their shoulders. This scenic venue offers free parking, picnic shelters, disc golf, volley-ball, a memorial garden with benches, a new playground area, dog park, and more.
We will carry the names of our children on bibs provided by the chap-ter. If you are unable to join us, please submit your child’s name and someone will be honored to carry your child with us on our walk (email your child’s name to tcf.mpls@gmail.com).
