“I like to be alone, but I don’t like feeling alone.” – A Children’s Grief Centre client
Grief can be isolating, especially for kids.
That’s why earlier this year, we launched the Common Ground Mentorship Program. This new Children’s Grief Centre initiative offers steady, non-judgmental, non-clinical, one-to-one support for youth grieving the death of someone important in their lives.
The program is part of the Children’s Grief Centre’s expanding Community Engagement Programming, providing ongoing support and connection outside of a clinical setting. Through simple, everyday moments like talking, pick-up basketball, playing games, or going for a walk, mentors help create a safe space where young people feel seen and supported.
Each child or teen is thoughtfully matched with a trained volunteer who brings mentorship, connection, and perspective through a grief-informed lens. Mentors are carefully screened, trained, and supported throughout their volunteer journey, so they feel prepared and are never alone in the role.
“What made a difference for me was having people who didn’t try to ‘fix’ anything—they simply showed up, listened, and reminded me that what I was feeling was valid. That kind of support helped me heal in ways I didn’t even realize at the time…. I want to be that steady, understanding person for someone else.” – A Common Ground Mentor, on why they give their time
In just a short time, the Common Ground Mentorship Program has already sparked strong community interest with 12 trained mentors, 9 registered mentees, 1 active match, and 6 more matches in progress.
As the program grows, our goal is simple: create more steady, caring connections. Because for a grieving child, one consistent person who shows up again and again can make all the difference.