Impact Stories
We Are All Connected: Impact Stories
It is our nature to seek connection, finding the common threads that weave us together as a community. Our clients, donors, volunteers, community partners, and staff are the heart and soul of Judi’s House. These connections inspire us to continue finding new ways to support bereaved children and their families.
Read on for impact stories from our community that draw on the many ways people are connected to our work.
Welcoming the Next Generation of Grief-Informed Professionals
October 24, 2025
Meet the Interns Over the next 12 months, these emerging professionals will gain hands-on experience and specialized knowledge that not only expands our capacity to serve more families but also strengthens the field of mental health. Clinical Interns Sophie CrawfordMetropolitan State University DenverMaster of Social Work “My experience at Judi’s House has shown me how… Read More
We Are All Connected: Laura Barton & Willy Matthews
April 25, 2025
Long-time Judi’s House Supporters Serve as Strength in the Face of Diversity Luncheon Honorary Chairs Around the same time Brian and Dr. Brook Griese were working diligently to create a safe space where bereaved families can heal together, Laura Barton lost her husband, Peter, to stomach cancer. With one child in elementary, middle, and high… Read More
Warm Meals Feed Hearts and Stomachs
April 10, 2025
Supporting grieving families with nourishment and routine. Serving warm meals before each Pathfinders group at Judi’s House is one way the organization helps children and families grieving a death find connection and healing. “When families start their program, they are unsure of what to expect and the dining area is very quiet during dinner,” said… Read More
Maddy Saunders on the Impact of Evaluation
February 24, 2025
Judi’s House Evaluation Associate, Maddy Saunders, shares her passion for our mission and the importance of effective program evaluation. Maddy Saunders has been a Judi’s House/JAG Institute staff member since 2023. Working on our Evaluation & Research team, she uses her expertise in program evaluation to guide bereavement organizations across the country through the Childhood… Read More
The Impact of Monthly Giving
January 24, 2025
At Judi’s House, every act of generosity creates a ripple effect, bringing hope and healing to grieving children and families. Among the many ways to support our mission, one stands out for its profound and lasting impact: joining “The Journey,” our monthly giving program. With the average cost of mental health counseling ranging anywhere from… Read More
The Heart of Our Mission: Celebrating Companion Volunteers Rachel Whited Atnip and Sandi Schechter
November 20, 2024
Rachel and Sandi, two Companion Volunteers talk to us about finding fulfillment and purpose in volunteer work. At Judi’s House, our work wouldn’t be possible without the incredible community of volunteers who dedicate their time and energy to support grieving children and families. Two of these extraordinary individuals are Rachel and Sandi, Companion Volunteers who… Read More
Why Grief Care for Children is a Vital Community Resource: Reflections from Our Interns
October 31, 2024
Meet a few of our interns, who are passionate about making a difference, share why they are committed to this important work. At Judi’s House/JAG Institute, our commitment to the vision that no child should be alone in grief drives us to strengthen the mental health workforce through intensive clinical training. Our internship program, grounded… Read More
Welcoming 3 Incoming Interns
September 25, 2024
Meet a few of our fall intern class of 2024 and learn about what drew them to our intern program. At Judi’s House/JAG Institute, our mission—that no child should grieve alone—extends beyond direct care. It involves nurturing the next generation of mental health professionals through intensive, hands-on clinical training. Our internship program, grounded in grief-specific,… Read More
Spotlight on Kathy Haruf: 15 years as a Cherished Volunteer and Legacy Supporter
August 13, 2024
Kathy Haruf shares her volunteer journey with Judi’s House, detailing her near 15-year involvement supporting our organization. Kathy Haruf is a cherished volunteer and a Judi’s House legacy supporter. Her commitment to Judi’s House extends far beyond financial contributions. She has been an advocate, volunteer, and ambassador for our programs, continuously finding ways to support… Read More
Brad Rainko on Why His Family Supports Judi’s House
July 24, 2024
We asked longtime supporter of Judi’s House Brad Rainko on the many ways his family gets involved with our mission. “We tragically lost my mom to a hemorrhagic stroke when my parents were visiting us in Colorado from Michigan.” says Brad Rainko. “As a family, we all struggled with grief and sudden loss, especially my… Read More