Family Lives On Foundation

There are more than 2 million children and teens in the US grieving the deaths of their moms or dads. 1 in 20 children experience the death of a parent before the age of 16 - that’s 1 in every classroom, 2 on every school bus.

Research shows that bereaved children are at 2 to 3 times greater risk for psychological problems than non-bereaved children and are more likely to spend time in jail than their non-bereaved peers. Children with unresolved childhood grief following the death of a father are 5 times more likely to commit suicide, 9 times more likely to drop out of high school and 20 times more likely to have behavioral disorders.

Children who are able to maintain emotional connections with their deceased mothers or fathers are more likely to adapt to their loss in a healthy manner and to avoid emotional, psychological, physical, and behavioral problems.

Parents embrace our Tradition Program because it takes place within the context of family life and promotes healing conversations. Family members participate in the tradition independently of Family Lives On volunteers.

Children and teens embrace it because they get to select which tradition they want to continue (and are excited about doing so).

We serve all children ages 3-18 regardless of race, gender, religion, socioeconomic status, or the cause of the parent's death or illness. Enroll here.