Peter’s Place A Center for Grieving Children and Families Comfort. Hope. Healing. Fall 2012

150 N. Radnor-Chester Road, Suite F 130 • Radnor, PA 19087 • Phone: 610-687-5150 • Fax: 610-687-5120 • Web address: www.petersplaceonline.org

Childhood bereavement, if left unaddressed, Fertile Ground carries increased risk of emotional, Letter from the Director behavioral, and academic problems. Kids who participate in peer groups at Peter’s Carrie Miluski, MS, CT Executive Director Place or through our in-school programs exhibit many positive outcomes. These include willingness to share their grief, Dear friends, improved school performance, increased The work of Peter’s Place is about hope and communication with family, and decreased healing, and as you will read in these pages, sense of isolation. it is also about growth. It might not make Expanding our reach to help more children sense intuitively to think of ”growing through and families, without compromising the grief“ but in fact, it happens. Children and unique quality of our services, requires adults learn through tragic experiences to careful planning and hard work to increase live in new ways and to adapt to their new our resources. realities. We hope and believe that families fi nd the loving community at Peter’s Place to Peter’s Place is preparing to grow through be fertile ground for this kind of work. three signifi cant initiatives made possible by generous grants and gifts: Likewise, Peter’s Place as an organization is preparing to grow. We recognize our 1. A 3-year partnership with Children’s responsibility to grow carefully, always Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) attentive to protecting the heart and soul focusing on the needs of bereaved of our community—always faithful to our siblings, made possible through a mission and purpose. generous grant by The Stone Family Our strategic planning process in 2011 Foundation. reaffi rmed the inestimable value of Peter’s 2. A generous grant from “A Little Hope” Place to families in the broad geography will help us establish a presence in surrounding our Radnor facility and to the Chester County. schools touched by our outreach program. 3. A gift from Leigh and John Middleton will enable the launch of “Ryan’s Hope Your support... Two key realities also came to light: at Peter’s Place,” offering peer support “nurtures the healthy 1. Our region needs more from to parents grieving the death of a child roots which sustain Peter’s Place. to addiction. Peter’s Place. 2. We must gather the resources Your support of our fundraising efforts ” to meet that need. nurtures the healthy roots which sustain The unmet need is great—countless children Peter’s Place, and these new endeavors. Your in our region need the support Peter’s dedication to our mission and belief in our Place provides. Six percent of children will work is the “fertile ground” which enables experience the death of a parent before our continued growth so that we can extend age 18. Many others will lose a sibling or the promise of “growth through grief” to another caregiver. Peter’s Place is here for even more children and adults. these children, their caregivers, and support Thank you for being a friend professionals. to Peter’s Place.

OUR MISSION Peter’s Place provides safe and supportive environments for grieving children and families and acts as a community resource to foster understanding of the effects of death and grief. Growing the On-Site Program Kimberly Nelson, LCSW Director of On-Site Programs

Our on-site support groups typically include activities which encourage introspection and sharing of thoughts and experiences. Within our safe and supportive environment, these activities provide comfort, promote healing, and offer the promise of hope for the children and families we serve.

One highly effective activity asks group members to create three columns: “The Way It Was,” “The Way It Is Now,” and “The Way I Want It to Be.” Choosing a topic such as “feelings” or “family,” participants explore their grief journey by writing down their thoughts, or drawing pictures beneath each heading. Hello & Goodbye This simple exercise helps group members process change and transition after the death of a loved one. It also serves as a great way for us to prepare for the growth of our on-site programs. We are pleased to welcome “Jamie” H. Bromley and Jane McNeil to our Board The Way It Was of Directors. James joined the Board after Last year, through a redesign of our program schedule, we were able to conduct multiple completing his function as a consultant, age-related groups simultaneously. This allowed families with siblings in different age groups guiding us through our strategic planning to attend sessions on the same night. In addition, this change allowed optimal use of our process. He is now serving as Treasurer. facilities, including the newly designed “Teen Room.” More group sessions were also added Jane has been a wonderful friend of to the schedule, eliminating the need for a waiting list, and allowing support to be more Peter’s Place and most recently co-chaired readily available to families in need. Our volunteers were provided with additional self-care and our 10th anniversary celebration with support. These steps helped to enhance and strengthen the program offerings available today. great enthusiasm for the mission of the organization. We are honored they have The Way It Is Now chosen to serve and look forward to sharing Based on our strong foundation, we seek continuous improvement in the breadth, depth, this work with both of them. and quality of our on-site programs. Always mindful of our mission, we are committed to Sadly, we have said goodbye to Nancy maintaining a unique, supportive environment for grieving children and families. This requires Dever, who served as our Development the careful attention of our staff and volunteers, remaining present with group participants, Coordinator for 3 years. Nancy brought walking with them on their journey, and providing them time and space to honor the past, many gifts to Peter’s Place and was a and move toward the future. treasured member of our team. She The Way We Want It to Be continues as a volunteer facilitator. Replacing Nancy is Amy Holzapfel, JD, We have many exciting growth opportunities Offi ce and Event Coordinator. Inspired by underway for the coming program year. our mission, Amy joined our staff in January These include the launch of a partnership after fi rst volunteering for the Moonlight with Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia & Magnolias event committee. Amy is an (CHOP), and a new program “Ryan’s Hope attorney with vast experience fundraising at Peter’s Place,” which will begin offering for local non-profi ts. Welcome Amy! support to parents who have lost a child to addiction. Our on-site program depends on Last fall, we were pleased to add Kimberly the ser vice s of 36 faithful volunteer s who give Nelson, LCSW, to our staff as the Director their time and talent each week to help us of On-Site Programs. Kim joined Peter’s facilitate groups. Recognizing their vital role, Place after working 10 years in child we seek to provide even greater ongoing welfare helping families deal with the support to them by fostering community loss and transition associated with the and advancing their individual growth as foster care system and adoption. Kim group facilitators and leaders. By working is now the caretaker of our on-site peer through the logistics of implementing these support groups and works with the growth initiatives, we are striving to move wonderful volunteers who staff these ahead to “the way we want it to be.” groups. We also regretfully said goodbye to Cara Magrogan Sacks, who served as the We look forward to continuous enhancement Director of Off-Site Programs. and expansion of our services, while maintaining the strength of our core program. And fi nally, welcome back Darcy Krause, We can ready ourselves to grow effectively LSW, JD. Darcy completed her graduate and responsibly by honoring the past (the internship at Peter’s Place while a student way it was), being in the present with group at the University of Pennsylvania, and she participants (the way it is now), and looking to joins us again as the coordinator of our new the future (the way we want it to be). sibling bereavement project with CHOP. Grief Candyland Tracy Clark Photo

2 Growth through Grief Denise Paul, MA, CT Group Specialist

Grief is a complex mixture of human emotions that is both natural and necessary following the death of someone special. Mourning brings about growth, and growth occurs when the bereaved person processes the loss and feels the pain of the person’s absence, while integrating the loss into their lives in a meaningful way. Peter’s Place offers children and adults a safe place in which to talk about their precious memories and heartfelt feelings. Grief affects us in many ways–physically, socially, spiritually, cognitively, and emotionally. Our physical well-being may be challenged in the following ways: diminished appetite, inability to sleep, decreased energy level, headaches, body aches, and anxiety. We eventually grow physically by overcoming the physical limitations that set us back. As we grow in grief, our bodies increase in stamina to persevere through the physical challenges of grieving. We may be forced to grow socially as our old set of friends may not fi t comfortably with our new circumstances. New roles in the family may force us to grow in ways that may be challenging. Growth will occur as we re- evaluate our daily activities and learn to live without that person. Developing a new way of being with other people is an important part of healing and an opportunity for social growth. Most people will continue to turn to their religious or spiritual beliefs and practices for solace, comfort and understanding in the midst of their sorrow. However, it is not uncommon for grievers to doubt their faith and question God’s responsibility for the loss. As we search for answers and fi nd meaning in the death, we may fi nd that our spirituality changes and may even be enhanced by the support of our faith community. Spiritual growth can occur even in the midst of religious uncertainty. Putting Together Shattered Pieces Grieving people experience cognitive limitations as they often report feeling like they are “going crazy” in the weeks and months following the death. They are unable to think clearly, concentrate, and process information properly. Grieving takes a tremendous amount of mental energy because of the many thoughts and emotions to reconcile following a death. In time, cognitive abilities will resume as the bereaved person processes the loss. The grief journey can be a painful one, as a fl ood of emotions is often experienced. Commonly reported feelings include: shock, denial, anger, despair, sadness, failure, hopelessness, loneliness, and confusion. Growth can occur if one takes the time to process these feelings with trusted family, friends, therapists, or support groups. It may sound counterintuitive to actually encourage people to explore the many painful feelings of grief, but if done in the midst of supportive people, growth will come through emotional expression. As we reconstruct a world of meaning that has been challenged by the loss of a loved one, we are sure to grow physically, socially, spiritually, cognitively, and emotionally.

In Their Own Words Q: What is the best thing about Peter’s Place? “ In my group I found it very easy to talk about things that I would otherwise keep inside.” Caregiver

“ I know that I am not alone on this ride.” Caregiver

“My children and I all gain extra strength from our groups.” Caregiver

“On a scale of 1-5 I give groups a 5, the facilitators a 10 and Peter’s Place overall a 100.” Peter’s Place teen

“ I love it a lot and I don’t want to leave.” Peter’s Place child

“I like being with other people who understand your grief and the feelings you have felt.” Peter’s Place child

Tracy Clark Photo

3 • In May, Dia Dolce Cupcake Truck, winner • A heartfelt thank you to Beth Fogarty, With Gratitude of the Mainline Times’ “Best Cupcake a Moonlight & Magnolias committee Peter’s Place is an organization with a Award,” held a cupcake sale to raise money member, who generously donated a small staff but a huge impact. Our broad for Peter’s Place. The cupcakes sold out in portion of her Stella and Dot jewelry sales reach is made possible by the incredible less than one hour! during the month of April. outpouring of support we receive from the • A special thank you to Michael Brock, • Thank you to Thomas J. Paul, Inc. for their community. Here are some of the special who generously donated his inspiring generous work on this newsletter and people and groups who’ve helped Peter’s photography and talent at several of our Moonlight & Magnolias. Place this past year: events, including the Peter’s Place Bowl-A- • Thank you to our volunteer facilitators. • In February, Strath Haven Middle Thon and Moonlight & Magnolias. Peter’s Place on-site peer support groups School hosted their annual Student- could not exist without the commitment Faculty Basketball Game with proceeds of over 36 trained volunteer facilitators. benefi tting Peter’s Place. The school raised Each year, these amazing people give over over $2,100 to help support our programs, 2,500 hours. and the students earned their fi rst victory • Thank you to our Moonlight & Magnolias in 20 years! A win-win! (see photo) Event Chairs and Committee Members for their tireless hours of beautiful work. Special thanks to Sheila Norton and Mary Katherine Schenkel, Chrissy Madden, Jen McGowan and Kelly Perillo. • Thank you to the Women’s Dining Circle of Overbrook Presbyterian Church for hosting a dinner in honor of Peter’s Place to raise over $1,700! For more information on how you can host your own event to support Peter’s Place, • Nudy’s Café donated a portion of all please contact Amy Holzapfel at 610-687- proceeds for the month of June, totaling 5150 or [email protected]. over $1,700, to Peter’s Place.

Partying with Peter’s Place November 2, 2011 Guests and friends of Peter’s Place gathered for Eat. Laugh. Love. to celebrate a decade of comfort, hope and healing at The Viking Culinary Center in Bryn Mawr. Guests enjoyed cocktails, delicious comfort food and cooking demonstrations. We are grateful to Allison Hayden for capturing the evening in photos. A special thank you to The Viking Culinary Center for putting on another fabulous event. February 4, 2012 The Playdrome at Devon was buzzing with excitement as 126 bowlers, from 23 teams, enjoyed an afternoon of pins, pretzels and pizza—at the 2nd annual Peter’s Place Bowl-A-Thon. Teams were made up of Peter’s Place children, families and friends. Together, the participants generated over $14,500 in donations! The money raised provides a support group to 12 Michael Brock Photo families for a program year at our Radnor facility. Special thanks to Michael Brock for his inspiring photography and video of the event, Bravissiomo Pizza and Philly Pretzel factory (food sponsors), Thomas J. Paul, Inc. (grand prize sponsor), John Kelly for his awesome DJ services—and fi nally, Devon Playdrome for their wonderful facility and help the day of the event. May 12, 2012 Peter’s Place celebrated a night of elegant southern hospitality at the Baldwin School. Led by co-chairs Mary Katherine Schenkel and Sheila Norton, guests were invited to step into a night of “Moonlight & Magnolias” and swing to the sounds of Zydeco-A-Go-Go, an authentic jazz and zydeco band. Guests enjoyed traditional southern cuisine and spirits—all prepared by the culinary experts of Jeffery A. Miller Catering. This fundraising event and silent auction helped to increase awareness of Peter’s Place and raised over $90,000 in critical funds needed to continue grief support ser vices to children and families. Michael Brock Photo

7 2011-2012 DONATIONS Michael and Jeanne Dechiario Andrew Camerota Karen Rodgers contributions received since 2011 newsletter Nicholas and Alex Delviscio Allan Campbell Alex and Rebecca Roe Peter’s Place is ever grateful to all of our contributors Glenn and Nancy Dever Michael Chizmar Joseph and Caroline Rogers who make our programs possible. David Dillman Richard and Laura Clark Matthew and Kiki Rosenberg John Doherty Bryan and Jayme Colket Justin Russo Vince and Anaid Calvitti Barrie and Dana Duffi eld Steven and Leslie Coren Philip and Mary Russo Oak April Crockett Eric and Suzanne Emerson Steven Cox Susan B. Sargent $10,000 or more Bill and Ann Davidson Bruce and Susan Endy Eric and Renee Del Viscio Gerry and Kathy Schaafsma Ira and Susan Disman A Little Hope Ann T. Field Jeff and Traci Evitts Spencer and Heidi Scharf Richard and Mary Emrich The Barra Foundation Brian and Elizabeth Fogarty Ewing Consulting, Inc. Julie Sheehan Ernst & Young The John and Robin Burch Lisa Gillin Adam and Anne Fischer Daniel and Judith Sherry Family Fund Robert and Susan Fahey Leila Gordon Suzanne Fleming Edward Solow Brandywine Realty Bill Haines Matthew Gorman Consuela Fogarty Jeanne Swope James and Elinor Buck Missy Halberstadt Jeffrey and Jane Hall Daniel and Lauren Forman Tom and Melissa Trala The Charter Foundation Mr. and Mrs. S. Matthew V. Harold and Lynne Honickman Maurice and Kathleen Fox Alex and Lori Unterkoefl er Hamilton, Jr. Connelly Foundation Jack and Graceann Hoopes Donna Frank Deborah E. Van Dusen Kevin Higgins Davenport Family Foundation David and Gwen Keiser Walter Fromm Andrew and Irene Vecchione Thomas Jefferson University Patricia Kind Family Hospitals Jarrett B. and Judith Kling Janice Gault Andrea Vigliotti Foundation Ed and Netchen Kaier Micah Knapp Sophie Ghedin and Volpe Express, Inc Lily Foundation Robert Beland Nicholas and Michelle Karalis Jennifer Larsen Lewis D. Walker Judi Marvel Charities Barbara Gilbert Roman and Laura Koropey Brian and Amanda Lauzon Patrick and Gretchen Walsh Elizabeth R. Moran Vincent and Elizabeth Gilpin William and Lee Warden Mr. and Mrs. Christopher D. Joe and Sally Layden The Leo and Peggy Pierce Le Vine Jeffrey Lowden Gingy’s, LLC Denise R. Williams Family Foundation Stephen and Debbie Lee David and Lisa Mallach Michael Greenblatt Joshua Wilson Scholler Foundation David and Christine Martinelli Mary Elizabeth McAndrews Robert and Joanie Hall Daniel and Cynthia Wolcott Thomas J. Paul, Inc. Mary Patterson McGrory Wade L. McDevitt W. Gibson Harris III Patrick Wolfe Zisman Family Foundation James and Ginny McWeeny Christopher and Gordon and Kathleen Hart Laura Woyak Howard Meyers Gina McHugh Nancy Higgins Sycamore Eileen Myers Peter and Bonnie Miller Harry and Louise Hill Maple $5,000-$9,999 William and Sheila Norton Carlyn Miluski Arnold and Bette Hoffman Up to $249 Katherine Miluski Andrew and Amy Holzapfel Anonymous Overbrook Presbyterian Beverly Abbonizio Church Scott and Karen Moon The Honickman Foundation James H. Bromley Foundation Bannard P. Ackerman Pearl Pressman Liberty Richard Morsbach and Randy and Megan Hope Mrs. J. Mahlon Buck Amy Agger The William Penn Foundation Sarah Brown Troy and Katrina Hottenstein John and Linda Cummiskey Ron and Melanie Albahary Pennsylvania Trust Company Neubauer Family Foundation Stephen and Kristina Howard Dominic and Janet Genuardi David Albert Pew Charitable Trusts John and Stephanie Palumbo Kenneth and Millicent Hull Larsen Foundation James and Michelle Alvare Glenn and Robin Pew Scott and Sheryl Reidenbach Kenneth Jabbour Joanna McNeil Lewis A.R. and S.C. Andersen R. Anderson and Daria Pew Danielle T. Rodgers Ben and Meghan Johnson Robert and Jane McNeil III Jeff Antonius Bob and Kristen Prachar Majorie and David Rosenberg Craig and Margaret Johnson RJM Foundation Foundation Pierce and Cynthia Archer Bryan and Krista Rogers Marc Joseph Stone Family Charitable Dutch and Nancy Schwertner Joseph Arnold Saul Ewing, LLP Tim and Kristin Kennedy Foundation Bob and Paige Skelly Jennifer Arnott Ben and Nancy Shein Letizia Lane Rosemary Haggar Vaughan Soldoveri Foundation Mr. and Mrs. James Ashton Family Foundation Bryn Smythe Ted and Lindsay Leisenring Mary Strenk Donna Avolio Wells Fargo St. David’s Church Mark Letner Steven Sugarman Mr. and Mrs. P. Theodore Jeff and Janine Yass Patricia Stokes Greg and Pam Levinson United Way of Chester County Babiy Wallingford–Swarthmore James Logue Madeline Badolato School District United Way of Jay and Dianne Lowden Gloucester County Charles and Louise Baker Walnut Lars and Lisa Williamson Stefanie Westphal Lucas $2,500- $4,999 John and Martha Walsh Peggy Baldini Scott and Sara Lupkas Carolyn Walter Rebecca Balkiewicz Dolfi nger-McMahon Allison P. Mackie Willow John and Jenny Ward Mr. and Mrs. Michael Foundation John C. Marshall $500- $999 Nina Weisbord Bamberger Gilbert and Eleanor M. Godin Samuel and Laura Marshall Jeffrey Barg Francis and Frances Abbott Peter and Suzanne Zelov Mr. and Mrs. Richard C. Ill George C. McFarland, Jr. Janet Bauman Aqua Charitable Trust Norm and Dawn Miller Jeffrey and Michelle Miller Rich and Francis Baxter Sandra Baldino Neighborhood League Shops Birch Scott and Kathlin Miller John F. Beiter Foundation, Inc. Anant Bhalla $250-$499 Joseph and Jane Miluski Henry Belber Rob Newbold Cynthia L. Borger A Family Martial Arts Center Cheryl Mitchell Lois Belber James and Denise Paul Rebecca Bradbeer Gretchen S. Anderson Louis and Renee Morsbach Jay and Kathleen Bellwoar Steve and Christy Silva Christopher Brill Paul and Melissa Anderson Charles and Erin Muhly Carol Bennett United Way of Southeastern James H. Bromley Jeffrey and Tisa Baena Jay Niemeyer Dale Bennyhoff Pennsylvania Charles and Sherri Cairns Bank of America David and Shari Noteware George Bennyhoff Andrew and Lee Walsh Timothy and Matching Gifts Alexandra Connors Larry and Tinie Notis Katherine Wilhoyte Bepler Scott and Judy Beaumont Peter and Hilary Cooke Raymond and Irene Nudy Steven and Ilene Berman Chestnut Barbara Blynn Susan Ober Daniel and Elizabeth Bernick $1,000- $2,499 Christopher and Ashley Corwin Gary and Natasha Bolis Leigh Partridge Mark and Karen Bernstein Todd and Barbara Albert William G. and Susan Costin Mike and Mary Broadhurst Mike and Kelly Perillo Jeffrey and Dana Berstein James and Julie Alexandre Kathleen Coupe Carolyn Brodsky Personnel Data Systems Michael and Carmella Beukers Altus Partners Peter Cummiskey and Tony and Dede Brown Philadelphia Foundation Tim Bickhart Blue Havens Pools by Calvatti Alexandra M. Daplan Peter and Erin Buckley Leo and Eve Pierce Elin Bierly Robert and Susan Burch Chuck Cutshall Roland and Sally Bullard Charles Roach June P. Bitzer

4 Colleen Blejwas Martin and Kit Dempsey Helen Gleason Marie Kelly Robert and Carolyn McGrory Annelize Bloch Robert and Mary Louise James and Amy Goldman Maureen Kelly David McIlwain Clarke Lewis Blynn Denney Timothy and Rita Gosnear Thomas and Marie Kelly Deborah McLaren Carol Boerger Jodi DePhillipo Paul and Nancy Gray Robert Kennedy Lizann McLaughlin Alfred and Lida Bonner Frank and Lorrie DeSimone Jefferson and Mary Green Tom and Patti Kiely William and Elizabeth Ruth Boonin Erika Dever Martyn Greenacre Cynthia Kienzle McLaughlin Richard C. Boothby Julie Dever Steven and Elizabeth Tracey Kilcullen Nancy McLelland Steve and Theresa Booz Anne C. Dillon Greenleaf Christine Lacey Kinslow Jim and Peggy McLoughlin Joseph and Barbara Borgioni Roberta Disman Tucker Gresh Jillian Kirby Robert and Leanne McMenamin Amy Jo Bennett Borst Frederick Dittmann Viola M. Gress Denise A. Kirk David and Catherine McQuaid Sheila Brannau Christine Dollarton Edward Gretz Charles Kitson Erica McReynolds Benjamin and Catherine Melissa Dollarton Marty Grimm Joyce Kleiber Carol Melman Breskman Patricia Dollarton Theodore and Jean Gulyas Mr. and Mrs. Robert Klinges Bill and Joanna Merriam Scott Brideweser Kimberly Donaldson Jaime Gusdorff Molly Klinges Robert C. Mickle, Jr. Ann Brostrom Susan Drennan Adam and Mindy Gusdorff Leigh Koman Mary K. Miluski Jeffrey and Eileen Brown Eleanor Duda Noah and Janet Gusdorff Alicia Kopp Mrs. Ann Mims Nathan Brown Joyce Dugan Rick and Michelle Gusdorff Cristina Kovarick Sheila Modglin Roann Brown Mary E. Dunn Kurt and Jean Haab Chris Kozeracki Debbie Mohr Maripeg Bruder Timothy and Jane Dwyer Byron Hadjokas Darcy Krause George and Sarah Mohr Eric and Sara Bruning Edward M. Paul & Co. Intissar Halim Marcella Kraycik Bruce and Lori Montgomery Kathryn L. Buckley Carol Reitter Elia John and Casey Hamblett La Comunidad Hispana, Inc. Christopher Morris Patricia Buckley Kirk and Deborah Elken Hamilton Family Foundation John and Joann Ladden James and Katherine Morris Beth Buckman William Ellington Glenis Hamilton Deb Lakoff Jonathan Morris John and Lola Buonomo Tracy Jane Emerson Norma Hamm Susan Laskin Lisa Buraks Jaime Mosher Nancy A. Erickson Rachel Hancock Leah Laub Charles and Amanda Burch Stephen Moss Charles and Karen Ernst Tara Handforth Patricia Lausch Elizabeth Burlingame Frank J. Mount Lisa Ersek Cynthia Hansen Claudette Lavache Floranne Burns Elizabeth Moylan Laurie Etherington Raelyn Harman Maurice Lee Macella Burns Kristine Mueller Timothy and Ellen Everett Lisa Harshman Ryan Lee Kathleen Byrne Jennifer Munch Joseph and Dawn Ewing David and Christine Hartzell Victoria Legenski Roy Carriker Richard Murray Maura Ewing James Haughton Fred Leibowitz Terence Carroll Victoria Murray Linda P. Farnum Kathleen Hausker Walter and Susan Lenhard Patrick Mutchler and Carroll’s Offi ce Supply and Kathryn Feldman Michael and Allison Hayden Furniture Co. Marie Leonard Anne Thompson Brian and Priscilla Fenlin Kimberly Heffner Rebecca K. Catanese Mark and Melina Leone Bethany Nelson Albert and Judith Feucht Nikole Heilmann Danielle Cedrone Stephen and Tina Roberts Gloria Nelson Finer Things Lightcap Anthony and Donna Peter and Susan Henson Janet Neumar Alexis Finkle Celentano Mr. and Mrs. Stephen P. Jennifer Linn Kathleen Neumar Daniel E. Fishbein Herbert Denise Chaplin Nancy Logan Karen Neyer Lorraine Fitzpatrick Gregory and Brenda Hess Peter Charrington Karen M. London Dr. and Mrs. R. Barrett Noone Tim Flatley Natalie Hetrich Child Guidance Resource Ashley Lorenz Bradley C. Norford Brenda Florida Jennifer Hilbert Centers, Inc. Thomas Lowry Barbara K. Norwitz Michael and Lisa Fogel Heather Hill Carol M. Chou Claire Luce Jerry and Emy O’Connell Thomas Foley Megan Hillier Chubb & Son Raymond and Kay Lukas Nancy Odell Joe Forcine Dan and Erin Hinckle Steven and Kathleen Chuey Charles and Joyce Lundquist Betty R. Ogren Pamela Forrestal Barbara Hobbs Christina Chusid Scott and Cynthia Mackay Joseph O’Neill Bryn Williams Fox David and Jennifer Hoffman Susanne Cianfaro James and Margaret Open Connections, Inc. Mark and Kathy Fox Christine Hofmann MacKenzie Catherine Ciocca Benita Orlin Regina Foy Christine Madden John Cleaver Constance Hofmann Janet Osterholm Andrea Franklin Catherine W. Mallam Stacy Clemson Vickie Hogue Perry and Pert Ostroff Tom and Gretchen Frascella Pamela Manigly William R. and Cynthia Cline Charles and Elizabeth Steve Paino Jesse Frechette Hottenstein Trudy Manion The Coad Group Mrs. Joseph M. Paiva Janet Frederick Melissa Hrinko Ms. Barbara Margolis Alexander Coates Mr. and Mrs. Vincent Paolizzi Ronald Frederick Joseph and Louise Huber Marcella Marino Beth Ellen Cohen Debora Pappas Todd and Kim Frederick John Huffaker Marcia Martin Eileen Connolly Mr. and Mrs. Donald Melissa Cornibe Molly Freiberg Laura M. Hymel Mary Judith Masiak W. Parker Andrea Cortland Donna Fromm IBM John and Jeanne May Bruce and Marianne Parkinson Mary Ann Costa Lawrence A. Fullerton Karen Ivory Elizabeth M. McKeegan Patrick Paro James M. Costello III Stephanie Gantman Jeff and Lori Jansen Denise L. McAvoy Robin Parrish Barbara Cranford Bernadette Gaudio George and JoAnn Jenkins Joseph and Deborah McCabe Doris Partridge Andrea Crawford GE Matching Gifts Michael P. and Genine Jensen Joanne McCandless John Partridge Darryl Crosby Laurie Geiger Joyce Vottima Jeuell M. Jeanne McCandless Nancy Pastva Alice B. Cullen Louann Geiger Kylius Jones Grace C. McCollum Mr. and Mrs. Barry Thomas and Darlene Daggett Margaret Ann Geist Laurie H. Jones William McCoy Pennypacker Dave and Libby Dalrymple Mary Geisz Jacquelyn Jorgensen Michael and Lisa McDugall Geoffrey and Kelly Penske Veronica Daupert William D. Gericke Andrew and Maria Kalilec Greg and Mary McGinn Guy and Holly Perrier Sylvia E. Davenport Fran Gibson Kathleen Kamen Kathleen McGlone Christina Perrone Harold and Eleanor Davis James Gibson Mr. and Mrs. David E. Kaslow Ady McGowan Angie Perry Lee Davis John Gilroy David and Linda Kaufman Dennis McGowan Joan Elliot Pew Anita Deasey Sandra A. Gilson Howard Kaufold Jen McGowan Marie Phelan-Gordon Brianna Decker Kelly Glacken Glenna LaSalle Keene Megan McGowan Mary T. Piombino

5 Pauline Pittinos Charles R. Rumsey Robert Shawger Page Syron Judith Vietri Nancy Graham Popiel Sylvia A. Russianoff Judith Siderio Mary Tague Frank Wagner Doris Price Daniel and Andrea Russoniello Siemens Patricia Talone Elena Wapner Elaine Rutherford Georgene Taylor Ralph and Susan Primelo Ernie and Linda Sims Brian Ward Public Health Kathryn Rutigliano Franco and Suzanne Sirkin Patrice Temple-West Nancy Warren Management Corp. Edward and Jane Ryan Elissa Sklaroff Elizabeth Tenaglio DeAnna Wassom Ann Rafferty Matthew Ryan Erin Slight Gerald and Michele Tennity Mary Ellen Ravel Lisa Santoro Ann R. Smith Matthew and Julie Tewksbury Annie Webb Alan and Louise Reed Stephanie K. Sarafi nas Brad Smith Stephanie Thibault John J. Webster Timothy and Susan Reilly Joe and Donna Sauder Mark and Helen Smith Ann Thompson Alan and Noele Wein Florrie and Hal Reinfeld Robert and Cynthia Savett Kristen Smith James and Susan Tiede Raymond and Joanne Welsh Nancy Resnick Andrew and Sidney and Mary Smith Gina Tobin Mary Katherine Schenkel Kent and Sara Weymouth Stacey A. Rhoads Cameron Adams Soroko Pamela Townsend Suzan V. Schlachta Brandon and Rory Whitaker Rick Belber Construction, Inc. Basil A. Soutos John Trach Alyson Schoeder Mr. and Mrs. Thomas J. Peter and Jennifer Wilhelm Ralph and Laura Riedel Andrew Spaulding Bob and Anne Schuster Tracy, Jr. Robert and Cathie Rienzo Carter and Virginia Williams Robert and Sally Schwabe Ann Sparkes Christine K. Travis Philip Ringo Kaziah Williams Peter Scilovati Jodi Spragins and Gwen Traynor David and Maridel Rippy Brook Gardner Marty Wilson Marianne Scully Mary Lou Trottnow Gailmarie Rizzo St. John’s Presbyterian Church Karen Witter Bianca O. Seeley Rosemary E. Ttee Amy Roach James Staples Herbert Seifert United Way of Central & James and Jean Wolitarsky Timothy and Cindy Roach Kristine Stavola Emma and Hannah Seifried Northeastern CT William and Kay Wood James and Emilie Steigerwald Jennifer L. Robinson Linda B. Selwood Jennifer Unterberger Marisa Woodworth Bruce and Karen Rodio Arthur Steinberger Stacey Sempier Upper Darby School District Dot Yerby Kevin and Cheryl Roller Robyn Steltz Renaat Van Den Hoof Anastasios Serafi m M. Curtis Young Mary Rosich Susan Sullivan Annice Venable Michael and Cheri Settanni Susan Young Timothy Ross Gail I. Sezna Elisa Surgent Michael Venneri Christy Zawadzkas Ann M. Rothman Patricia Shah Irene Sutker Verizon Foundation John and Lauren Royer Steven C. and Heidi M. Petra Svenson Linda Verrecchia Paul F. Zeits RSG Commercial, Inc. Sharkey Allan Syphers Stephanie Vieira Kristin C. Zimmerman

Peter’s Place makes every effort to recognize all of our contributors. If your name is listed incorrectly or omitted, please notify us and the correction will appear in the next newsletter.

Gifts in Memory of S.C. Anderson Leona Fischer Ethan Halberstadt John McCollum Jack Staples Stephanie Arizin Cynthia Ann Foley Tracy Elizabeth Hottenstein Peter Morsbach Ben Strauss Frank Baldino Jr., Ph.D. Carolyn Fretz Sally Irving Joseph M. Paiva Peter Thomas Brian E. Breskman Jack Geist Edward D. Kaier Monica Palacio Peter F. Vottima Marsha Walker Gabrielle Cerminaro James W. Gilson and Robert Stephen Knapp James Robinson Michelle Deasey W. VanDeventer Patricia Krumrine Patti Jo Rumsey Alec Williamson Ron E. Dunn Ray McLean Gordon Douglas Mauton Rachel Savett Sue Zeits Paul Erickson Amy Blum Haines Gwen May Emily Schuster

Gifts made in Honor of

Jane Ash Beth Greenleaf Ruth Leach Bob and Kristen Prachar Chris Stoddard William Deasey and Family Nolan and Leah Laub Jim and Denise Paul Sally Schwabe Truist Credit JNJ Gilbert and Eleanor Godin Amanda Lauzon Robin Marzelli Pew Bryn Smyth

Gifts made in Kind

Alba Restaurant Cooke & Berlinger, LLC Mainline Dental Peak Fitness Mary Katherine Schenkel Ame Salon John and Linda Cummiskey Mainline Landrover The Pennsylvania Ballet Leo Sewell American Girl Decorating Den Interiors Margaret Kuo’s Restaurants Philadelphia Curling Club Skirtin’ Around Ankle and Foot Glenn and Nancy Dever Robert and Leanne Philadelphia Freedoms Southwest Airlines Medical Center Devon Horse Show McMenamin Philadelphia Museum of Art The Tennis Farm Beerjobber Ira and Sue Disman Jim and Ginny McWeeny The Philadelphia Phillies Theres’s Café Brenda Carpenter Michael Brock Photography Thomas J. Paul, Inc. Photography Durango Farm Philadelphia Sports Club Scott and Kathlin Miller Tory Burch, LLC Joe Bodalski Flag Lady Gifts The Philadelphia Zoo Viking Cooking School Joseph Bodalski The Franklin Institute David Mizejewski Platoon Fitness Training, LLC Vetri Foundation Bravissimo Pizza Fresco Eileen Myers Playdrome Devon Walter J. Cook Jeweler Bunny Hares Gretz Brothers Beer Naturescapes Pure Barre Wayne Art Center Burlap & Bean Haverford Dermatology Lee and Sheila Norton The Putaway Shop Wayne Sporting Goods Christopher’s Jeffrey A. Miller Catering Nudy’s Café Lisa Raymond Andre and Holly Whitfeld Evelyn Cintron Ben and Meghan Johnson Onde Salon Matthew and Kiki Comcast SportsNet Little Nest Portraits The Organizing Consultant Rosenberg

6 Readying to Grow

Tony Morelli Jr., LSW Director of Off-Site Programs

The metamorphosis of caterpillar into butterfl y is an archetypal symbol for the processes of growth and transformation in the natural world. The formation of the chrysalis—in which these mystical processes happen—however, is somewhat illusory. Although it appears that the caterpillar actively forms this protective coating, in reality it actually sheds its outer layers, thus accessing the chrysalis already existing within. Once this organically formed “container” emerges, the evolution from caterpillar to butterfl y is underway! Ultimately, the caterpillar does virtually nothing to facilitate this process; it merely has to be and to allow nature to take its course. Balloon Release The Outreach Program of Peter’s Place engages in processes similar to that of the caterpillar/butterfl y, and it is unique in its mission to carry the spirit and work of Peter’s Place outside of the walls of our Center and into schools and community settings. Each Outreach effort literally requires the relinquishing of the various “accouterments” found in our Center— from the colorful pillows, games, toys and costumes to the ever-coveted Foosball machine! The Outreach Program, however, consistently carries with it a power directly derived from the theoretical and practical foundations that make the grief support services of our on-site program unparalleled— namely, our “peer support” and Much like the caterpillar releases “companioning” models. “ that which is unhelpful to its Employing these above-mentioned growth, the Outreach Program models, the Outreach Program allows grieving students actually creates a “series of chrysalises” to unburden themselves. wherever it goes, fostering support, understanding, and compassion among ” and for grieving children and families in the wider community. For those bereaved young people who, for various reasons, are unable to come directly to Peter’s Place, the Outreach Program offers support within a common and familiar social setting—their school. Much like the caterpillar releases that which is unhelpful to its growth, the Outreach Program allows grieving students to unburden themselves of the culturally constructed inhibitions that often stymie the expression of their grief—and that are, generally, unnatural to children to begin with. Ironically, in this particular process of letting go, grieving students actually create a “chrysalis of protection” via the support of their peers in the group. Much like the caterpillar accesses the chrysalis inherent within it, so too, do these young people access their own inherent capacity for empathy. Consequently, they are able to grow and develop as effective and capable individuals, both in and out of the classroom. Grief Watercolor The Outreach Program is also seeking to expand its efforts to educate more adults who are caring for bereaved children in economically underserved areas by working with school-based parent-teacher organizations as well as local community groups in the city of Chester and in other areas of southern/southeastern Delaware County. More information will be forthcoming as these fl edgling efforts develop within their own “chrysalises!” Simply by being present to bereaved children and families, and by offering our exceptional service to the community, the Outreach Program allows Peter’s Place to naturally expand as a distinguished, respected, and evolving presence within the communities that exist beyond the “chrysalis” of our own walls here in Radnor. Teen Group Thank you for supporting our growth and transformation!

8 Peter’s Place In Their Own Words by the Numbers About our Outreach Program “Grief group allows the students the format to express themselves as well as get the support of others in the group. By the end of the group sessions the majority of the students On-Site Peer Support Groups, 2011–2012 have progressed in all realms possible, i.e. behaviorally, emotionally, and academically.” Program Year A School Counselor 13 peer support groups for “My students loved group and looked forward to it each week. Many times they reminded children and teens me that we had group that day :-)” A School Counselor 13 peer support groups for adult “It helped me to tell my siblings how I feel and know that it ’s alright to show your feelings.” Student caregivers “Everyone had someone that died and I didn’t feel like I was the only one that had someone 1 peer support group for young that died.” Student adults 297 total served in 2011-2012 program year My favorite thing about the O u t r e a c h P r o g r a m H i g h l i g h t s 2 0 11 – 2 0 12 “group was the Memory Box 21 eight-week grief support because I could put things groups in area schools that remind me of my mom 6 new schools were added in it. Student this year! ” 172 Outreach Programs in local schools and agencies Memory Box 646 individuals served and over 16,000 children indirectly served DONATE: Comfort. Hope. Healing.

Participating schools and organizations With only a small paid staff working How to Donate in the Outreach Program and over 36 volunteer grief facilitators, • Donate today using the attached Academy Park High School Peter’s Place serves hundreds of children donation envelope. and families every year. We also provide Agnes Irwin Upper School • Visit our website www.petersplaceonline.org, support to thousands of kids and staff in and click on “Donate.” Catapult Learning, Inc. area schools. Chestnut Hill Graduate School • Designate Peter’s Place for your United of Counseling Peter’s Place does not charge a fee for Way contribution; our donor number is our support group services. This helps to Chester Community Charter School 14576 for United Way of Southeastern ensure that no child is turned away for Colonial School District PA. For other United Way agencies, write fi nancial reasons. Darby Township Elementary School in “Peter’s Place, 150 N. Radnor-Chester Your donation to Peter’s Place enables us Road, Suite F130, Radnor, PA 19087.” Delaware Co. Juvenile Detention Center to provide these essential services and also • Donate in Memory of Someone: You Eddystone Elementary School helps us grow responsibly and sustainably. might fi nd special meaning in making a Harris Elementary School How You Can Help memorial contribution to Peter’s Place. Interboro School District • $4,000 helps keep Peter’s Place in a low Your gift will help others in grief. Mommy’s Light Lives On Fund income school for a whole school year. • Donating in Honor of Someone: Neighborhood Hospice of West Chester • $1,098 allows one family to attend Peter’s Pay tribute to someone by making a Northley Middle School Place for a program year.* donation to Peter’s Place in their honor. Olney Charter High School • $800 allows up to 10 grieving students We have a Wish List on Amazon.com! Park Lane Elementary School to attend an 8-week support group in Our wish list was just updated and we need Radnor High School their own school. Ridley High School many new books for our library. To locate • $350 purchases a year’s supply of our Wish List, go to Amazon.com and click Senkow Elementary School children’s story books about grief for our on Gifts and Wish Lists. Under Wish Lists and Sharon Hill Elementary lending library. Registries type in Peter’s Place. Southeast Delco School District • $122 provides a month of services for a Strath Haven Middle School grieving family at Peter’s Place. University of Pennsylvania Graduate *Program year is 9 months School of Social Policy and Practice Villanova Graduate School of Counseling Widener University Graduate School Visit www.petersplaceonline.org We have a Wish List for a link to our Facebook page. of Social Work on Amazon.com! Widener Partnership Charter School

9 IN THIS ISSUE Staff Upcoming Events Carrie Miluski, MS, CT, Executive Director Cover Letter from the Director [email protected] November 9-11, 2012 Page 2 Growing the On-Site Program Tony Morelli Jr., LSW, Director of Art Sale to Benefi t Peter’s Place Off-Site Programs The Women of the Palette Artists’ Group Page 7 With Gratitude [email protected] will hold their 14th annual art exhibit and sale at The Eagle Village Community Many thanks to the Davenport Family Kimberly Nelson, LCSW, Director of On-Site Programs Hall in Strafford. This year a percentage Foundation for generously funding [email protected] of the price of each painting sold will be the printing of our publications. Amy Holzapfel, JD, Event Coordinator/ donated to Peter’s Place. Offi ce Manager [email protected] November 9, 2012 Peter’s Place Board of Directors Denise Paul, MA, CT, Group Specialist Peter’s Place Professional [email protected] Development Series Eleanor M. Godin, Co-Chair Darcy Krause, JD, LSW, CHOP Sibling We welcome Jeffrey Kauffman, LCSW, Andrew Walsh, Esq, Co-Chair Project Coordinator to speak on Shame: The Hidden Emotion James H. Bromley, Treasurer [email protected] in Grief and Trauma. This is a continuing James M. Buck III education program for mental William H. Haines, IV Leila Gordon, MBA, Gordon Business Solutions, Finance Manager health professionals. Jane McNeil [email protected] Karen K. Moon, LCSW February 2, 2013 James K. Paul Annual Peter’s Place Bowl-A-Thon Robin Marzelli Pew Robert Prachar April 27, 2013 Bryn Smythe Spring Gala

Peter’s Place 150 N. Radnor-Chester Road Suite F130 Radnor, PA 19087 Ph: 610-687-5150 Fax: 610-687-5120 www.petersplaceonline.org

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. . . Healing Hope Comfort

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