What is Tucker’s Treehouse? New Owensboro Non-Profit to Offer Grief Support For Kids

When suffering loss, everyone needs a place "Where it's okay if you're not okay." The organizers of one of Owensboro's newest non-profits, Tucker's Treehouse, are creating a special community for kids in Western Kentucky.

Grief is one of the most difficult parts of life. It's also the evidence of profound love. The death of someone close can turn life upside down and that is especially the case for children. Even "living losses" which are situations where someone is no longer around for various reasons such as instances of incarceration, foster care, divorce, etc. can rustle up feelings of confusion and sadness.

A couple of weeks ago, we had lunch with individuals associated with Hospice of Western Kentucky including Bereavement Coordinator, Caleb Potter, M.Div, CT. He and the Tucker's Treehouse team are passionate about creating new ways to support children through the grieving process.

You can learn about the various programs Hospice of Western Kentucky already offers such as counseling care, Camp Erin, Caring Bears by visiting their website. They also have a very important employee dedicated to comforting both patients and families at The Heartford House. His name is Tucker and he is a mini mountain golden doodle.

He's also the spokesperson *I mean spokes-dog* for what will be something unique here in the Owensboro area. Tucker's Treehouse will be a clubhouse of sorts for kids experiencing grief. There will be musical instruments and art supplies for children who want to express their feelings in creative ways. Outdoor and indoor spaces for play, and even a safe room to "rage out" when necessary. It will be a place for peer support groups and scheduled programs for kids ages 6 to 18 to meet and be around others who can relate to what they're going through.

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Tucker's Treehouse has gained support from various local agencies, but they are still working towards the goal of funding to renovate the building they plan to use for this endeavor. You can help by following them on social media. Support their fundraisers or sign up for their upcoming It's Okay if You're NOT Okay 5k. Saturday September 13th.