Love Notes · October 2026
Remembering Ruthie
Excerpt
Therapy dogs bring a special kind of support to Ele’s Place.
Stories From the Heart
Every Story Begins With Someone We Love.
Remembering a dad. Finding a friend. Returning to help someone else. Meet the people whose experiences bring Ele’s Place to life.
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Real Families. Lasting Connections.
A family photograph of Paul, Kelsi, and Kennedy, supplied with their story.
Many Experiences. A Shared Connection.
Find a Story That Speaks to You.
There is no single way to grieve. These voices reflect different ages, relationships, and ways of finding support.
Showing 17 stories
Families
CROSBY FAMILY
Excerpt
As a parent who recently became a widow, finding Ele’s Place just days after my husband passed away was a lifesaver.
Young Adults
Rachel W.
Excerpt
In 2005, my mom, Janet, died suddenly from a brain aneurysm.
I did not want to feel singled out or alone through the grieving process, I was excited to be able to go there.
Teens
Donna Roberts
Excerpt
Although it’s been about five and a half years since I lost my father, I am reminded of him and his love for me every single day.
Volunteers
CALEB BRITTEN
Excerpt
I began my journey with Ele’s Place when I was just three years old, shortly after my father passed away.
Families
The Carr Family Story
Excerpt
The date September 23, 2014 will always be remembered by Tammi Carr as the day that forever changed her perspective on life and what is truly important.
Families
HICKS FAMILY
Excerpt
When I first walked through the doors of Ele’s Place, I felt anxious and overwhelmed as a single father with two young children.
Donors
Mark & Amy Blaufuss
Excerpt
Another friend recommended that the Jakubiks look into an organization called Ele’s Place Ann Arbor.
Community Supporters
Chuck Colby
Excerpt
Dad explained that at breakfast, Mom got up for more coffee and collapsed.
Staff
KaDerrick Robinson
Excerpt
I have been a Bereavement Coordinator at Ele’s Place Ann Arbor for about seven months now, and it is by far the best experience I’ve ever had.
Caregivers
Paula Crosby-Flake
Excerpt
I have been a Spouse and Partner Loss facilitator (Adult Clinician) since the fall of 2013.
Volunteers
Mike Halpern
Excerpt
It’s now 2022, and I’ve been an Ele’s Place Ann Arbor volunteer grief facilitator for eight years.
Community Supporters
How Adam Starr Helped Bring Ele’s Place to Grand Rapids
FOX 17 Pay It Forward · West Michigan
Community Voices
In Our Families’ Words
A child’s artwork from the Ele’s Place collection.
Your Next Step Can Be Small.
Find support, lend a hand, or help make room for another family.