Get Support
Supporting people in their grief journey following the death of a child.
You are warmly invited to join the monthly gatherings of the Anne Arundel County Chapter of Bereaved Parents of the USA.
We are a community of parents, siblings, grandparents, and loved ones who come together—both in person and online—to listen, to care, and to support one another as we walk this difficult journey of grief.
Our meetings are gentle, safe spaces where everyone is welcome, whether you wish to speak or simply listen.
Some gatherings begin with a speaker or panel discussion on topics meaningful to bereaved families. At other gatherings, we simply introduce ourselves and share our hearts—allowing space for connection and healing.
Afterward, we offer small sharing groups, where parents and family members can talk openly, exchange ideas for coping, and feel the comfort of being understood.
Every meeting is different, but each one is guided by compassion, respect, and the shared hope that together we can move forward with love.
On this page:
Support Group Meetings
FAQ
Events
Support Group Meetings
All family members experiencing grief from the death of a child at any age, from any cause, are welcome. We are not professional grief counselors; we are bereaved parents. There are no membership fees.
In-Person Meetings
Our monthly in-person meetings are on the first Thursday of each month. They are are a chance to learn, find resources, and support one another. Room opens at 6:30-6:45 p.m. Meeting begins at 7 p.m.
Next In-Person Meeting:
March 5, 2026
Calvary United Methodist Church
301 Rowe Blvd., Annapolis, MD 21401
Virtual Meetings
Our monthly virtual meetings are on the third Thursday of each month. They are are a chance to learn, find resources, and support one another. Room opens at 6:30-6:45 p.m. Meeting begins at 7 p.m.
Next Virtual Meeting:
March 19, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
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No. You are never required to speak at a meeting. We understand how difficult that can be, especially when grief is fresh. You are always welcome just to listen.
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Absolutely. Regardless of circumstances or age of your child at the time of their death, all families are welcome.
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Yes. Our meetings are open to all families who have experienced the death of a child—at any age, from any cause. No matter how old our children were, we will always think of them as our children.
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No. There is never a charge to attend either in-person or virtual meetings. We are supported by the generosity of members, friends, and the community.
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Every meeting is a little different. Sometimes we simply introduce ourselves and share thoughts and feelings. Other times, we begin with a short program—such as a guest speaker, video, or recording—before moving into sharing groups.
Virtual meetings are structured in the same way as in-person meetings. An email with a Zoom link will be sent out at the beginning of the week.
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Yes. Friends are welcome. We simply ask that everyone respects the privacy of others, so that members can feel safe sharing openly.
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Yes. Many people attend alone. We all grieve differently. Your spouse or partner may not feel ready or may never choose to attend.
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Yes. As the Anne Arundel County Chapter of the Bereaved Parents of the USA (BPUSA), we welcome all faiths, beliefs, and viewpoints or none at all. After the death of a child, many of us experience changes in priorities, beliefs, and values. You will be accepted just as you are.
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No. Our chapter has no religious affiliation. Calvary United Methodist Church has generously provided us a meeting space, and we are grateful for their support, but you do not need to belong to a church, or to any religion, to attend.
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It is never too late. Many parents don’t feel the need for a support group until years after their loss. You are welcome whenever you are ready—whether that is weeks, months, or years later.
Events
Our chapter gathers throughout the year to honor our children, bring our community together, and offer hope and healing.
Service of Remembrance
A tender and meaningful gathering where we come together to honor and remember our children. Through readings, music, and candle lighting, we celebrate their lives and hold space for love, connection, and healing.
Typically, the Service of Remembrance takes place in December near Annapolis, Maryland.
Memory Walk
The Anne Arundel County Chapter hosts an Annual Memory Walk to remember all of the children who have died all too soon but still walk in the hearts of our families and friends. In the fall, 2026, we will be hosting the XXXth annual Memory Walk. This is an opportunity to unite the families and friends who share in the loss of a child.
The primary purpose of the Walk is to provide an opportunity for members and friends to join together for a walk through the woods and fields of Quiet Waters Park and to talk and to remember our children as we move forward in our grief journey.
The other purpose of the walk is to raise funds to support the mission of our chapter. By making a contribution to the Anne Arundel County Chapter of the Bereaved Parents of the USA, you are helping to further our mission of supporting parents as they walk this lifelong journey. If you
know of friends or family or businesses that are interested in supporting our mission, please ask them to make a contribution in your child’s name.
Parking is free at Quiet Waters Park for those participating in the Memory Walk.
National Gathering
A nationwide annual gathering of bereaved parents, grandparents, and siblings hosted by Bereaved Parents of the USA. The conference offers workshops, keynote speakers, support groups, and opportunities to connect with others who understand. It is a time of learning, sharing, and finding hope in community. The gathering is often uplifting and encouraging to attendees.
The location varies from year to year. In 2026, it will be in Pittsburgh, PA.