For Brenda Walsh-Segesdi, volunteering at The Children’s Room has been more than just a commitment—it’s been a life’s purpose. Since she first walked into TCR in October 1994, Brenda has been a constant source of support, compassion, and understanding for grieving children and families. Now, 30 years later, her journey has come full circle as she begins her 2024 group on the same day she started volunteering three decades ago.
A Personal Connection to Grief
Brenda’s inspiration to volunteer at TCR stemmed from her own childhood experience with loss. At the age of eight, Brenda experienced the death of her father, and as one of six siblings, she knew firsthand the silence that often surrounds grief. “We didn’t have anything like this. We all grieved in silence,” she recalls.
When an acquaintance suggested she look into TCR, she immediately felt a deep connection. “I’ll never forget leaving my first training at Hospice West, TCR’s original safe space in Waltham. I was filled with disbelief and honor, knowing I had found something where I could give of myself in a meaningful way.”
This sense of honor has only grown stronger over the years as Brenda has witnessed the impact TCR’s programs have on grieving children and families.
Marking a Special Milestone
This year holds special significance for Brenda, as her first group of the program year began on the same day—October 6th—when she started her journey at TCR in 1994. “When I realized my 30th anniversary would fall on the same day, it felt extraordinary,” she says. “It was a nice reminder that I’m exactly where I’m supposed to be.” For Brenda, this milestone reflects her enduring connection to TCR’s mission and her continued dedication to the children and families she supports.
The Motivation to Keep Giving
What has kept Brenda engaged for three decades is TCR’s ability to evolve and meet the changing needs of its community. “My motivation to stay involved is TCR’s ability to constantly grow and learn in order to meet the needs of the families we serve,” she explains. Brenda has witnessed TCR’s transformation from its early days into the leading independent bereavement center it is today. “It’s taken so many hearts and minds to make TCR what it is—a place where no child, teen, or family has to grieve alone.”
Memorable Moments of Connection
When asked about her most memorable moments, Brenda reflects on the profound impact of simply creating a safe space for children and teens to express their grief. “What stands out to me most is our ability to ‘just be’ with a child or teen,” she says. “We provide a space where grief can be whatever it needs to be in that moment. It’s a human experience that’s hard to match.” This ability to be present, listen, and support without judgment is what makes TCR’s programs so powerful. It’s also what keeps volunteers like Brenda returning year after year, knowing their presence makes a real difference.
Being Part of the TCR Community
Even after 30 years, Brenda still feels the same sense of honor and privilege she did on her very first day. “The difference today is in the growth,” she reflects. “The number of staff, volunteers, board members, and donors has grown tremendously, but the mission remains the same. We are the Yellow House on the hill, reaching an ever-growing number of children, teens, and families. I treasure being part of that.”
Brenda’s journey with TCR is a testament to the power of community, and her unwavering dedication continues to inspire both new volunteers and the countless families she has supported over the years. As TCR continues to grow, so does Brenda’s commitment to ensuring that no child or family has to navigate grief alone.
—
Consider joining our team of dedicated volunteers at The Children’s Room. To learn more about how you can apply to become a volunteer facilitator and how you can make a difference in the lives of grieving children and families, visit our Volunteer page.
