Opening Our Doors: Reflections from the Fall Open House

On Tuesday evening, we welcomed friends of The Children’s Room to our Fall Open House to launch the 2025–26 program year. Guests gathered for tours of the house, including a refreshed third-floor play space, along with music, conversation, and reflections on the year ahead.

During the evening, Executive Director Jon Gay shared an important message: “Everyone connected to The Children’s Room has a role to play in ensuring that grieving children, teens, and families know they are not alone.” As we begin a new chapter with our 30th anniversary on the horizon and a strategic planning process underway, we are proud to stand on a strong foundation. Yet Jon reminded us that times of strength are when it is most important not to grow complacent. Now is the time to reach further.

Why this matters

Word of mouth remains the number one way families find their way to TCR. It’s also how we connect with new donors, ensuring that our programs remain free for all who need them. Every introduction matters, whether it leads a grieving family to our programs or a supporter to join our mission.

How you can help

Jon invited our community to consider one simple request: think of a few people who might want to learn more about TCR, and make the introduction. That introduction might look like bringing a friend or colleague for a tour of our program space, introducing them to our staff over coffee or Zoom, or even hosting a small gathering at your home, office, or another community space. However it happens, each connection helps more families find their way to TCR and more supporters join us in keeping our programs free.

Even one introduction can open the door for a family to find support or for a donor to help sustain our mission. Together, these connections grow the web of care that ensures no child, teen, or family has to grieve alone.

We are deeply grateful to everyone who joined us for the Open House and to all who continue to champion this work. If someone came to mind as you were reading, consider reaching out now and let us know how we can help make that connection.

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Want to get involved? Contact Executive Director Jon Gay at jon@childrensroom.org to take the next step.