With Gratitude

Thanksgiving has arrived and this year it may look different for many of us. Whether you are facing the first Thanksgiving since the death of your loved one or dealing with the reality of not being able to joyfully gather with family and friends as planned, A Haven wishes you a peaceful day filled with moments of fullness and gratitude. Despite all that has challenged us this year, our team has also found much to be grateful for. Here’s what made our Thankful List in 2020:

  • Pie! Did you know that our Executive Director, Michelle, makes a mean apple pie?

  • Learning minds! We have a team of 3 wonderful interns who have given us their energy, compassion, and insight this fall. They have thrown themselves into whatever we have asked of them, and brought warmth and fun to our Teen Nights. 

  • Comfort! We miss having families onsite at our space in Exton, but we savor the ability to continue safely working in our beautiful office, where we can be comfortable and cozy while we focus on fulfilling our mission. 

  • Resilience! Our families have continued to show up for themselves and each other in this season of virtual groups and socially distanced gatherings. This network of growing grief support is sustaining both for the families we serve and the staff who foster it. 

  • Earthy beauty! Our Clinical Director, Liz Dreibelbis, has a bonus talent for growing beautiful things and turning them into even more beautiful centerpieces and decorations.

  • Wisdom! We have been moved again and again over the course of this year by the profound things that our littlest grievers have shared with us. We thank them for their courage. 

  • Tiny team members! The young children of our staff members, Kate and Liz, have made many an appearance over Zoom meetings this year. We are grateful that they share their Moms with us and bring smiles and giggles to remote workdays. 

  • Expansion! Our staff and board have grown in size this year and we have benefitted immensely from the guidance and dedication of all who have joined our team. 

  • Partners! We are grateful for the school counselors, teachers, social workers, nurses, business owners and ALL of our community partners who connect us with families in need and turn to us for guidance in grief. 

  • Trust! Our annual Give Grief Hope campaign was our largest and most successful EVER this year, driving home for us that we are a trusted resource in Chester County. 

  • Recognition! This month we were named the Nonprofit of the Year by the Downingtown Thorndale Regional Chamber of Commerce. It is an honor to do this work and be recognized. 

  • You! We are grateful for you and the role you play in our community of support. We could not do this work without all who help make up our nest, and we are here for you whenever you may need. 

Gratefully,
A Haven

Written by Kate Lannan, Community Services Director


Michelle Noble