Updates

Bereavement Support Ways to get involved

Family opportunities

Many families find comfort in giving back and staying connected to their loved one’s legacy through acts of kindness, service, and advocacy. Below are meaningful ways you can get involved with our grief and bereavement support efforts at Texas Children’s Hospital. 

Make a donation in memory of your loved one

Making a donation in your loved one’s memory can be a meaningful way to honor their life and create a lasting impact. Some families find comfort in giving back as a way to carry forward their loved one’s legacy and support others.

If you would like to make a donation, you can use the link below. When submitting your gift, you are welcome to include your loved one’s name and share any details or message you would like us to know.

If you would like to make a donation, you are welcome to include your loved one’s name and share any details or message you would like us to know. You may also choose to direct your gift to a specific area that feels meaningful to you, such as our Grief Support Team, bereavement programs, staff education, or the annual Candle Lighting Ceremony. 

Join our family advisory committee

Our Family Advisory Committee is a group of bereaved parent volunteers who help guide and shape our grief programs through their lived experience, compassion, and insight.

FAC members may support efforts such as:

  • Reviewing grief materials and website content
  • Participating in staff education and trainings
  • Co-leading peer support groups
  • Supporting new initiatives
  • Mentoring newly bereaved families

Becoming an advisor starts by connecting with the Grief Resource Team. After an initial conversation, those interested will go through the hospital’s volunteer process, which includes a background check and orientation.

If you’re interested in learning more about joining the committee, please email the Grief Support Team at GriefSupport@texaschildrens.org.


Staff opportunities

Texas Children’s staff play a vital role in supporting bereaved families across our system. Whether through direct involvement or behind-the-scenes planning, your time and compassion make a lasting impact. Below are a few meaningful ways to get involved.

Volunteer for the candle lighting ceremony

Our annual Candle Lighting Ceremony is held each December on Worldwide Candle Lighting Day to honor the memory of children who have died. The event offers space for reflection, remembrance, and community—both in person and virtually.

Volunteers help make this event possible by supporting:

  • Event setup and logistics
  • Memory-making and resource tables
  • Family check-in and wayfinding
  • Refreshments and cleanup
  • Virtual support roles

Volunteer recruitment begins each fall. If you are interested in participating or have questions about volunteer roles, please contact the Grief Support Team at GriefSupport@texaschildrens.org

Join our system-wide bereavement committee

Our System-Wide Bereavement Committee (SWBC) brings together passionate staff from across Texas Children’s Hospital to improve bereavement care for families.

Committee members contribute to:

  • Reviewing and standardizing grief materials
  • Enhancing follow-up and support processes
  • Collaborating on hospital-wide bereavement initiatives
  • Providing input on events and education

This interdisciplinary group meets bi-monthly and is open to all interested staff. If you would like to learn more or attend an upcoming meeting, please contact the Grief Support Team, at GriefSupport@texaschildrens.org