Michael's Place

Mission Statement

Michael's Place provides compassionate support and advocacy for grieving children, teens, and families, offered freely on the basis of goodwill.

Brief History

Michael's Place began in 2001 working with grieving children, teens, and families who have experienced the death of a loved one. Michael's Place welcomes families of all backgrounds. Services and programs are free to all families. Each week families come together to share stories and experiences and find comfort and security with others who understand. In addition to our weekly support groups, Michael's Place services include family meetings, educational workshops, school-based grief support programs and services, emergency personnel trainings, community trainings, summer camp for children, and more. Statistics show that 78% of couples experiencing the death of a child will either separate or divorce within one year from the death. At Michael's Place, none of the couples in the program have separated or divorced and all of the children have remained in school. In 2007, Michael's Place provided over 24,000 hours of direct service with 7,000 of those hours helping schools following the death of a school community member.

Goals

Death does not discriminate, but instead crosses all boundaries. Without appropriate support, statistics show that those who are grieving are more likely to turn to unhealthy behaviors. Without support, an increase is evident in school dropouts, divorce, drug and alcohol use and abuse, and depression. The goals of Michael's Place are to provide healing in a healthy manner for individuals and families following the death of a loved one, and to provide grief support programs and services to schools following the death of a member of a school community.

Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteers are the key to the success of Michael's Place and are needed to facilitate the support groups, provide office assistance, complete special projects, serve on the board of directors and committees, and assist with special events. Experience is not necessary as Michael's Place trains all volunteers.

Giving Opportunities

Give to: 1055 Carriage Hill Drive Suite 4 Traverse City, MI 49686 (231) 947-6453 P (231) 947-7114 F There is no gift too big or too small for Michael�s Place. As a local organization, all of the financial gifts received by Michel�s Place will directly serve our community. Michael�s Place accepts gifts through check, credit card, stock transfer, and more. Gifts can be given in memory or in honor of a loved one, as a sponsorship of a special event, a memorial, or a grant through a foundation or trust.

Donate Now!

Fundraising Events

Michael's Place hosts an annual concert in the fall at the Dennos Museum Center. In December, Michael's Place presents an annual holiday appeal. Private parties are hosted throughout the year to benefit Michael's Place and we encourage anyone interested in hosting or attending to contact the office.

Biggest Need in 2009

The need for our services continues to grow each year. Financial support and volunteers are needed in order to continue to provide a quality program to the many individuals who seek our assistance. Please help support the many grieving children, teens, and families on their journey of healing!