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If I go to a meeting, will I have to talk?
      No one is required to share at any meeting. We understand how difficult that can be when grief is so fresh. We do ask that you listen and when you are ready, we invite you to share whatever is on your mind.

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My child was an adult and didn’t live at home. Can I still attend a meeting?
      Chapter meetings are open to all families who have experienced the death of a child, at any age, from any cause and regardless of age. We believe our children will always be thought of as just that.....our children.

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Is there any charge to attend?
     There is no fee to attend any of our meetings or special events. We rely on voluntary donations from members, friends and the community at large.

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What happens at a meeting?
      Some meetings are simply introducing ourselves and sharing our thoughts and feelings. At other times, we have a topic that we discuss before the sharing time. Occasionally, we invite a guest speaker to join us, or we view a DVD together and discuss it at the end, or we create a craft project together, i.e. a scrapbook page, a holiday memento, etc.

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Can I bring a relative or friend with me?
     Guests are always welcome, but we ask that he or she, as well as all members, respect each other's privacy. It is important for us to be able to share freely within our group and be sure that confidences will be respected.

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My husband says he won’t come with me. Can I come alone?
      Yes. We all grieve differently and he may not be ready to take part just yet...or ever. And, likewise, many husbands attend meetings without their wives.

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My child died from substance abuse, suicide, homicide, etc. Will I be welcome?
      Yes. All families who have experienced the death of a child at any age, from any cause, are welcome.

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Religion doesn’t matter to me anymore. Can people at a meeting accept that?
      BPUSA espouses no religion but supports each member in his or her grief journey regardless of religious practice or belief. Our members are asked to listen and be respectful of others' views. We understand that after the death of a child, many priorities, as well as values, may change.

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Do I need a reservation before I come to a meeting?
      No reservations are necessary. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions or concerns.

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My child died seven years ago, and I postponed my grief work. Now it’s catching up with me. Is it too late to attend meetings now?
      We all grieve differently. Many parents don’t feel the need of a support group until years after the death of a child. Please join us when you are ready, whether it’s soon after your child’s death, months later or even years later.