Michael’s Place Brings Grief Support and Connection to Children Across Northern Michigan

Thanks to a $9,000 grant from Eagles for Children through member engagement with Traverse City Golf & Country Club, Michael’s Place was able to provide critical bereavement support to children and families throughout the region.

Michael’s Place serves children, teens, and families experiencing the loss of a loved one by providing support, advocacy, education, and resources specifically designed to meet the unique needs of those who are grieving. Importantly, no family is turned away from Michael’s Place programs and services because of cost.

During this grant cycle, Eagles for Children’s support helped make it possible for Michael’s Place to provide direct services to bereaved children in 16 schools across seven counties. The support also helped welcome 74 new participant families receiving first-time care, including 67 new children, while the Robin’s Nest Youth & Family Program provided 582 participant engagements.

Behind these numbers are children finding a safe and supportive place to process their grief, connect with others who understand what they are experiencing, and know that they are not alone.

The impact of Michael’s Place programming can be seen in the response from the educators and counselors who work directly with participating students. In one middle school group, returning students were already eager to participate again, demonstrating the meaningful connections they had formed through the program.

Another teacher shared just how enthusiastic students were about returning:

“The kids and parents' response are a testament to how wonderful you are! Kids didn't even let me finish my sentence before they agreed! Never in my history of teaching have I given 6/7th grade boys permission slips and gotten them delivered to me the next morning!”

The enthusiasm extends to younger students as well. In an elementary school group, students were already asking about their next opportunity to participate.

“The [elementary] kids have been asking about you all morning. Their question was – when is our grief group today??”

For children navigating the loss of someone they love, having access to a trusted adult and a supportive community can make an important difference. Michael’s Place brings these resources directly into schools and communities, helping ensure that grieving children have opportunities to receive support where they live and learn.

Through the Robin’s Nest Youth & Family Program and in-school support, Michael’s Place continues to create spaces where children can talk about their experiences, build connections, and navigate grief alongside others who understand.

Eagles for Children’s support helps make this work possible, providing access to specialized grief services for children and families across the region. Together, we are helping ensure that no child has to navigate grief alone … for the kids!