#United States #Santa Monica #Unlikely Collaborators #Brennan Wood #Dr. Donna L. Schuurman

Discovering Grief: Insights from a Unique Spark Salon Event

On November 18, 2025, the renowned organization Unlikely Collaborators will host an enlightening Spark Salon event titled What Loss and Grief Teach Us About Life. This special gathering will feature two prominent grief experts, Brennan Wood and Dr. Donna L. Schuurman, focusing on the often-unseen journeys of children who are navigating grief. The event, set to commence at 7:00 PM PT, will be both an in-person experience at Unlikely Collaborators' Santa Monica headquarters and available for livestreaming.

Grief is a universal experience, yet its complexities are frequently overlooked, especially when it comes to younger individuals. Wood and Schuurman invite participants to delve into significant narratives surrounding loss—from how children make sense of their grief to the importance of recognizing these emotional experiences. They will discuss the significance of simply being present for those who are grieving, acknowledging that this presence, rather than the urge to 'fix' one's feelings, can serve as a powerful form of healing.

The event serves more than just an informational purpose; it aims to foster a community of understanding surrounding grief. Wood and Schuurman will share valuable insights drawn from their extensive experience in the field of grief support, offering practical advice and profound reflections on how recognizing and honoring grief can help cultivate resilience and empathy among individuals. This exploration of grief is not only about mourning; it's about expanding one's understanding of life itself and the diverse ways in which loss can shape our identities and relationships.

A Unique Experience for Attendees
Conversations during the evening will be nuanced, exploring difficult topics while also illuminating the profound connections grief can foster between people. After the main discussion concludes at 8:00 PM, attendees will enjoy a book signing—where they can receive personal copies of A Kids Book About Grief by Wood and Never the Same: Coming to Terms with the Death of a Parent by Schuurman, both essential resources for understanding the nuances of grief from a child's perspective.

The Force Behind the Event
Brennan Wood's journey into grief support began in her childhood after tragically losing her mother shortly after her 12th birthday. This personal loss drove her to commit her life to helping other children navigate through similar experiences. Since becoming the Executive Director of the Dougy Center in 2015, she has advocated for grief-informed practices within communities. Her recent TEDxPortland talk, titled Grief is to Feel, Not Fix, emphasizes the importance of allowing grief to be felt rather than suppressed.

Dr. Donna L. Schuurman, who serves as the Senior Director of Advocacy and Education at the Dougy Center, brings decades of experience to the discussion. A recognized authority in the field, she has authored significant works that guide families through the grieving process, particularly for children and teenagers. Her insight is enriched by firsthand experiences dealing with large-scale tragedies, enhancing the relevance of her knowledge.

A Call for Community Connection
This upcoming Spark Salon promises to be both a gathering of like-minded individuals and a space for rich dialogue about the ways in which grief influences our understanding of human relationships. The event is free to attend, although pre-registration is required due to limited seating. By sharing personal stories and insights into grief, attendees will not only learn from expert knowledge but also engage in conversations that help to uplift and support grieving communities.

In a world that often shies away from discussions about loss, events like this remind us of the importance of fostering empathy and understanding. It’s a valuable opportunity to learn ways to witness grief without attempting to fix it, creating an environment where individuals can feel seen and validated in their experiences.

Don’t miss this chance to join a critically important conversation on grief and its impacts on our lives. Register now to secure your spot, and be part of an evening filled with insightful discussions and connections that might just change how you view grief and resilience forever.

Event Details:

• - Date: November 18, 2025
• - Time: Doors open at 6:00 PM, Program begins at 7:00 PM PT
• - Location: Unlikely Collaborators Headquarters, Santa Monica, CA (also available via livestream)
• - Cost: Free with registration required