Creating a nurturing environment for children who have lost loved ones is the mission of Club Hope, an initiative started by Lisa Tolliver Lehman. In the aftermath of her own personal tragedy, Lehman recognized the profound impact that losing a parent or sibling can have on young lives. At Moon Area Middle School, she fosters a welcoming atmosphere where students find solace and understanding. Through bi-monthly gatherings, these sessions provide not only a space to express grief but also opportunities for meaningful connections through shared activities.

Grief serves as a unifying force among the participants of Club Hope, yet it is the engaging projects and peer interactions that sustain their interest. Activities such as crafting memory boxes and creating symbolic art allow students to honor their departed loved ones in creative ways. For instance, eighth grader Connor uses magazine cutouts to depict cherished memories of his father, who passed away due to complications from COVID-19. These exercises, along with planting flowers and exchanging heartfelt valentines, reinforce the idea that the memories of those who have passed remain vivid and cherished.

Inspired by initiatives like the Highmark Caring Place, Club Hope exemplifies the power of community support. Parents observe remarkable transformations in their children's demeanor after joining the club. Alyssa Dixon recounts how her daughter Keira found comfort and camaraderie within this supportive network. Moreover, older students mentor younger ones, cultivating a cycle of empathy and encouragement. Morgan, a senior at Moon High School, introduces rock painting as a tribute to her late grandmother, blending creativity with remembrance. This organic approach to conversation and connection ensures that every child feels understood and valued. The program’s success underscores the importance of expanding similar initiatives across schools nationwide, offering hope and healing to countless grieving children.