In total, you helped raise over $125,000!
Through your generosity, Fernside is able to help thousands of children in our own community cope with the loss of a parent or sibling through support groups, summer camps, and outreach efforts. The funds raised allow the healing work of Fernside to continue at no expense to the children and their families.
On May 10th, we kicked off the Annual Fernside Classic Benefit Dinner at Cooper Creek Event Center.
It's always so amazing to see a room full of people who are rallying in support of Fernside's mission and cause. Not only did this event raise vital funds for Fernside Center for Grieving Children, but it also fostered a sense of unity, compassion, and hope within the community.
The event's impact will undoubtedly enable the center to continue providing crucial services and support to children who have experienced the loss of a loved one, ensuring they find solace and healing during their grieving process and that's all possible because of YOUR support.
We were thrilled to welcome 250 guests to dine & donate!
Bidders eagerly placed their bids for an array of donated items, including: vacation packages, and gift certificates for local services, knowing that every dollar raised would directly benefit the children at Fernside.
“I like to think of Fernside as this rare gem in the community that many people do not know about until they need it...I just recently learned that Fernside serves almost as many children as national organizations in this space that are 3x larger than our Fernside. That's a tremendous gift that we have.” – Jill Miller, President & CEO | Bethesda Inc. & bi3
A highlight of the night was hearing Nathan's story and the impact that Fernside has had in his life.
Nathan's story of navigating grief after losing both of his parents served as a powerful reminder of the positive impact Fernside has on the lives of those in need of a safe space to grieve, feel welcomed, and understood.
Life before Fernside looked so much different, "my emotions and my actions didn’t show any happiness and I never wanted to talk about her. There were days I just sat by myself."
Since finding Fernside in 2022, Nathan has gained new friends and was able to experience the Teen Retreat. The camp provided him the coping skills to manage his grief and feel more comfortable communicating his feelings to his family.
“I am a junior in high school right now and I am happy to say, I get to walk on the stage and get my diploma early this June. So I would just like to say to the Staff and Taylor THANK YOU! You don’t know how much Fernside helped me in life. When I needed it, it was there for me.” – Nathan Howard
To hear Nathan's full testimony, listen to his heartfelt story below.
May 13th - Golf Outing at Shaker Run Golf Course
Ready, set...scramble!
Foursomes hit the fairway at Shaker Run Golf Course; which offered a stunning backdrop for a day filled with camaraderie, competition, and philanthropy. Golf enthusiasts, community members, and sponsors came together to show their support for the cause, while also enjoying a day of sport and leisure.
Congratulations to the Ritter Daniher Foursome team who won the outing! Gentlemen, you did an amazing job!
Ritter Daniher Foursome team left to right: Chris Straley, John Ritter, Brad Walker, Michael Kessling
Seeing so many people come together in support of Fernside Center for Grieving Children is nothing short of incredible. Your contribution and participation in this event helps Fernside to continue providing vital resources, counseling, and support to grieving children, ensuring they receive the care and understanding they deserve.
THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR GENREROUS SPONSORS!
This event was a testament to the community's compassion and commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of those in need. We're so thankful for your solidarity, empathy, and support for grieving children and their families.