American Hospice Foundation, Washington DC, USA

In early 2008, Sandi Howlet, one of American Hospice's Phoenix-based trainers met with a group of grieving employees who had just lost a co-worker to a violent death. The employees worked at a residential home for Alzheimer's patients and had just learned that a fellow caregiver had been murdered by her boyfriend. Her 17 year old daughter was wounded but survived, while younger children slept in an adjacent room.

Sandi led the co-workers in a remembrance ceremony: "We gathered around a table and lit a candle in her memory as well as anyone else they were grieving.  We then passed a talking stick around for each person to share a story or memory about their fellow caregiver and what it was like to work with her.  There were tears and laughter amid the stories.  This young mother was remembered as a strong woman who was also a realist about life and the fragility of life.  Several in the group referred to her beautiful smile and commitment to her children."

American Hospice sponsors Grief at Work programs throughout the United States. Grief in the workplace has a significant impact on morale and productivity.  Half of all people affected by death this year will be in the workplace during the grieving period.  Our workshops are designed to enhance understanding of grief concepts related to workplace functioning.  The goal is that workshop participants will gain knowledge of concrete tools and techniques for effective management of grieving employees and their coworkers. 

Request information about Grief at Work programs in your area.