• For Patients
    • Choose the Most Experienced
    • Services & Support
    • Personalized Care
    • Northern Illinois Palliative Care
    • Your Grief Journey
    • Patient Stories
  • For Caregivers
    • FAQs
    • Caregiver Resources
    • Family Support
    • Bereavement
    • Caregiver Stories
    • Grief Support Groups
    • The Reading Room
  • The Reading Room
  • Volunteer
    • Opportunities
    • Become a Volunteer
    • Veteran Support
    • Volunteer Stories
    • Volunteer Portal Home
  • Give
    • Donate Now
    • Begin a Legacy
    • Grateful Families
    • Donor Stories
    • Charity Golf Event
    • Go Paperless
  • Referrers
    • Physicians
    • Affiliates/Partners
    • Make a Referral
  • In the Know
    • Events
    • Community/News
    • Video Resources
    • Blog
  • Contact
    • About Us
    • Careers
© All rights reserved.

English | Spanish

  • 815.398.0500
  • About Us
    • Our Team
  • Contact
  • Careers
  • In the Know
    • Events
    • Community/News
    • Video Resources
    • Blog
Northern Illinois Hospice Northern Illinois Hospice
  • For Patients
    • Choose the Most Experienced
    • Services & Support
    • Personalized Care
    • Northern Illinois Palliative Care
    • Your Grief Journey
    • Patient Stories
  • For Caregivers
    • FAQs
    • Caregiver Resources
    • Family Support
    • Bereavement
    • Caregiver Stories
    • Grief Support Groups
  • The Reading Room
  • Volunteer
    • Opportunities
    • Become a Volunteer
    • Veteran Support
    • Volunteer Stories
  • Give
    • Donate Now
    • Begin a Legacy
    • Grateful Families
    • Donor Stories
    • Charity Golf Event
    • Go Paperless
Northern Illinois Hospice

English | Spanish

Events

Home / Blog

Memorial Pillow Workshop – 10:30 AM

Grief touches everyone differently, and finding meaningful ways to remember those we’ve lost can be a powerful part of the healing journey. We invite you to join us for a free Memory Pillow Workshop, a one-hour guided activity where participants will create a keepsake pillow using a loved one’s shirt.

Bring a clean, soft button-down or t-shirt that belonged to someone special. With the help of volunteers experienced in sewing, you’ll turn that article of clothing into a memory pillow that can offer comfort during difficult days. No sewing experience is required, and all materials besides the shirt will be provided. Please do not bring denim, jackets, or thick materials, as these are difficult to work with.

Each individual or family group may create up to two pillows during the session. This event is open to adults, teens, and families. Whether you’re attending alone or as a group, the space will be welcoming and supportive.

In addition to the craft activity, bereavement support and grief resources will be available. We understand that processing loss takes time, and being surrounded by others who are also honoring the memory of someone they love can be an important source of strength and understanding. You’ll have the opportunity to reflect, share, and create something tangible to remember someone by.

Memory pillows can be treasured keepsakes for years to come. Whether displayed in the home, passed on to another family member, or simply hugged when emotions rise, these pillows hold deep emotional value.

Memory Pillow Workshop
Saturday, January 31, 2026
10:30 AM
DeKalb Public Library – Yusunas Room
309 Oak Street, DeKalb, IL 60115

Registration is required, and space is limited. Register here or by calling the DeKalb Public Library at 815-756-9568.

In addition to Memorial Pillow Workshops, Northern Illinois Hospice offers a variety of other grief support groups tailored to different needs and communities, including:

  • Bridge of Hope, A Bereavement Care Group – Rockford
  • Bridge of Hope, A Bereavement Care Group – Sycamore
  • A Walkabout With Grief
  • Tranquil Tuesdays

For more information about these programs and how to register, please contact Northern Illinois Hospice at 815-398-0500.

We hope you will join us for our Memorial Pillow Workshop on January 31, 2026 at 10:30 AM to make something meaningful to remember those we’ve lost.

Memorial Pillow Workshop – 9:30 AM

Grief touches everyone differently, and finding meaningful ways to remember those we’ve lost can be a powerful part of the healing journey. We invite you to join us for a free Memory Pillow Workshop, a one-hour guided activity where participants will create a keepsake pillow using a loved one’s shirt.

Bring a clean, soft button-down or t-shirt that belonged to someone special. With the help of volunteers experienced in sewing, you’ll turn that article of clothing into a memory pillow that can offer comfort during difficult days. No sewing experience is required, and all materials besides the shirt will be provided. Please do not bring denim, jackets, or thick materials, as these are difficult to work with.

Each individual or family group may create up to two pillows during the session. This event is open to adults, teens, and families. Whether you’re attending alone or as a group, the space will be welcoming and supportive.

In addition to the craft activity, bereavement support and grief resources will be available. We understand that processing loss takes time, and being surrounded by others who are also honoring the memory of someone they love can be an important source of strength and understanding. You’ll have the opportunity to reflect, share, and create something tangible to remember someone by.

Memory pillows can be treasured keepsakes for years to come. Whether displayed in the home, passed on to another family member, or simply hugged when emotions rise, these pillows hold deep emotional value.

Memory Pillow Workshop
Saturday, January 31, 2026
9:30 AM
DeKalb Public Library – Yusunas Room
309 Oak Street, DeKalb, IL 60115

Registration is required, and space is limited. Register here or by calling the DeKalb Public Library at 815-756-9568.

In addition to Memorial Pillow Workshops, Northern Illinois Hospice offers a variety of other grief support groups tailored to different needs and communities, including:

  • Bridge of Hope, A Bereavement Care Group – Rockford
  • Bridge of Hope, A Bereavement Care Group – Sycamore
  • A Walkabout With Grief
  • Tranquil Tuesdays

For more information about these programs and how to register, please contact Northern Illinois Hospice at 815-398-0500.

We hope you will join us for our Memorial Pillow Workshop on January 31, 2026 at 9:30 AM to make something meaningful to remember those we’ve lost.

Bridge of Hope Bereavement Care Group – Sycamore – September 18, 2025

Grief comes in many forms and you don’t need to navigate your journey alone. Consider joining our Bridge of Hope, a bereavement care group, meeting on September 18, 2025 and every Tuesday at Northern Illinois Hospice, 2225 Gateway Drive, Sycamore.

AUG 14
Introductions & Grief Overview

AUG 21
The Realms of Grief &
“They Mean Well”

AUG 28
Nurturing Yourself & Support

SEPT 4
Memories & Emotions

SEPT 11
Learning Survival Skills

SEPT 18
Secondary Losses & Next Steps

 

You Can Anticipate

Education – learn about normal grief responses

Sharing – thoughts, feelings, and experiences

Respect – a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere

Welcoming – acceptance, validation, and appreciation

Confidentiality – discussion shared stays within the group

Reservations are required. Group size is limited.

 

Bridge of Hope Sycamore

A Bereavement Care Group

  • This is a closed group and we will not be taking registration for individual classes. Registrants will be signing up for the entire series.
  • Coordinator will be calling all registrants prior to first group so please include your phone number.

 

In addition to Bridge of Hope, Northern Illinois Hospice offers a variety of other grief support groups tailored to different needs and communities, including:

  • Memorial Pillow Workshops
  • Tranquil Tuesdays
  • A Walkabout With Grief
  • Bridge of Hope, A Bereavement Care Group – Rockford
  • Bridge of Hope, A Bereavement Care Group – Sycamore

For more information about these programs and how to register, please contact Northern Illinois Hospice at 815-398-0500.

We hope you will join us for Bridge of Hope, A Bereavement Care Group, in Sycamore, on Monday, September 18, 2025, to find comfort and community in a safe space

Bridge of Hope Bereavement Care Group – Rockford – September 15, 2025

Grief comes in many forms and you don’t need to navigate your journey alone. Consider joining our Bridge of Hope, a bereavement care group, meeting on August 4, 2025 and every Monday at Northern Illinois Hospice, 4751 Harrison Ave., Rockford.

AUG 4
Introductions & Grief Overview

AUG 11
The Realms of Grief &
“They Mean Well”

AUG 18
Nurturing Yourself & Support

AUG 25
Memories & Emotions

SEPT 8
Learning Survival Skills

SEPT 15
Secondary Losses & Next Steps

 

You Can Anticipate

Education – learn about normal grief responses

Sharing – thoughts, feelings, and experiences

Respect – a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere

Welcoming – acceptance, validation, and appreciation

Confidentiality – discussion shared stays within the group

Reservations are required. Group size is limited.

Bridge of Hope Rockford

A Bereavement Care Group

  • This is a closed group and we will not be taking registration for individual classes. Registrants will be signing up for the entire series.
  • Coordinator will be calling all registrants prior to first group so please include your phone number.

In addition to Bridge of Hope, Northern Illinois Hospice offers a variety of other grief support groups tailored to different needs and communities, including:

  • Memorial Pillow Workshops
  • Tranquil Tuesdays
  • A Walkabout With Grief
  • Bridge of Hope, A Bereavement Care Group – Rockford
  • Bridge of Hope, A Bereavement Care Group – Sycamore

For more information about these programs and how to register, please contact Northern Illinois Hospice at 815-398-0500.

We hope you will join us for Bridge of Hope, A Bereavement Care Group, in Rockford, on Monday, August 4, 2025, to find comfort and community in a safe space.

Bridge of Hope Bereavement Care Group – Sycamore – September 11, 2025

Grief comes in many forms and you don’t need to navigate your journey alone. Consider joining our Bridge of Hope, a bereavement care group, meeting on September 11, 2025 and every Tuesday at Northern Illinois Hospice, 2225 Gateway Drive, Sycamore.

AUG 14
Introductions & Grief Overview

AUG 21
The Realms of Grief &
“They Mean Well”

AUG 28
Nurturing Yourself & Support

SEPT 4
Memories & Emotions

SEPT 11
Learning Survival Skills

SEPT 18
Secondary Losses & Next Steps

 

You Can Anticipate

Education – learn about normal grief responses

Sharing – thoughts, feelings, and experiences

Respect – a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere

Welcoming – acceptance, validation, and appreciation

Confidentiality – discussion shared stays within the group

Reservations are required. Group size is limited.

 

Bridge of Hope Sycamore

A Bereavement Care Group

  • This is a closed group and we will not be taking registration for individual classes. Registrants will be signing up for the entire series.
  • Coordinator will be calling all registrants prior to first group so please include your phone number.

 

In addition to Bridge of Hope, Northern Illinois Hospice offers a variety of other grief support groups tailored to different needs and communities, including:

  • Memorial Pillow Workshops
  • Tranquil Tuesdays
  • A Walkabout With Grief
  • Bridge of Hope, A Bereavement Care Group – Rockford
  • Bridge of Hope, A Bereavement Care Group – Sycamore

For more information about these programs and how to register, please contact Northern Illinois Hospice at 815-398-0500.

We hope you will join us for Bridge of Hope, A Bereavement Care Group, in Sycamore, on Monday, September 11, 2025 to find comfort and community in a safe space

Bridge of Hope Bereavement Care Group – Rockford – September 8, 2025

Grief comes in many forms and you don’t need to navigate your journey alone. Consider joining our Bridge of Hope, a bereavement care group, meeting on September 8, 2025 and every Monday at Northern Illinois Hospice, 4751 Harrison Ave., Rockford.

AUG 4
Introductions & Grief Overview

AUG 11
The Realms of Grief &
“They Mean Well”

AUG 18
Nurturing Yourself & Support

AUG 25
Memories & Emotions

SEPT 8
Learning Survival Skills

SEPT 15
Secondary Losses & Next Steps

 

You Can Anticipate

Education – learn about normal grief responses

Sharing – thoughts, feelings, and experiences

Respect – a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere

Welcoming – acceptance, validation, and appreciation

Confidentiality – discussion shared stays within the group

Reservations are required. Group size is limited.

Bridge of Hope Rockford

A Bereavement Care Group

  • This is a closed group and we will not be taking registration for individual classes. Registrants will be signing up for the entire series.
  • Coordinator will be calling all registrants prior to first group so please include your phone number.

In addition to Bridge of Hope, Northern Illinois Hospice offers a variety of other grief support groups tailored to different needs and communities, including:

  • Memorial Pillow Workshops
  • Tranquil Tuesdays
  • A Walkabout With Grief
  • Bridge of Hope, A Bereavement Care Group – Rockford
  • Bridge of Hope, A Bereavement Care Group – Sycamore

For more information about these programs and how to register, please contact Northern Illinois Hospice at 815-398-0500.

We hope you will join us for Bridge of Hope, A Bereavement Care Group, in Rockford, on Monday, September 8, 2025, to find comfort and community in a safe space.

Bridge of Hope Bereavement Care Group – Sycamore – September 4, 2025

Grief comes in many forms and you don’t need to navigate your journey alone. Consider joining our Bridge of Hope, a bereavement care group, meeting on September 4, 2025 and every Tuesday at Northern Illinois Hospice, 2225 Gateway Drive, Sycamore.

AUG 14
Introductions & Grief Overview

AUG 21
The Realms of Grief &
“They Mean Well”

AUG 28
Nurturing Yourself & Support

SEPT 4
Memories & Emotions

SEPT 11
Learning Survival Skills

SEPT 18
Secondary Losses & Next Steps

 

You Can Anticipate

Education – learn about normal grief responses

Sharing – thoughts, feelings, and experiences

Respect – a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere

Welcoming – acceptance, validation, and appreciation

Confidentiality – discussion shared stays within the group

Reservations are required. Group size is limited.

 

Bridge of Hope Sycamore

A Bereavement Care Group

  • This is a closed group and we will not be taking registration for individual classes. Registrants will be signing up for the entire series.
  • Coordinator will be calling all registrants prior to first group so please include your phone number.

 

In addition to Bridge of Hope, Northern Illinois Hospice offers a variety of other grief support groups tailored to different needs and communities, including:

  • Memorial Pillow Workshops
  • Tranquil Tuesdays
  • A Walkabout With Grief
  • Bridge of Hope, A Bereavement Care Group – Rockford
  • Bridge of Hope, A Bereavement Care Group – Sycamore

For more information about these programs and how to register, please contact Northern Illinois Hospice at 815-398-0500.

We hope you will join us for Bridge of Hope, A Bereavement Care Group, in Sycamore, on Monday, September 4, 2025, to find comfort and community in a safe space.

A Walkabout With Grief – October 11, 2025

Join Northern Illinois Hospice for A Walkabout With Grief on October 11, 2025 at Sycamore Lake Rotary Park.

A Walkabout With Grief is a group for semi-active adults who are grieving the loss of a loved one. You’ll experience 45 minutes of walking with 15 minutes of discussion at the start and end of each session. It’s a beautiful setting with a paved walking path, intermittent shade, and benches available along the path to sit and view the small lake. The natural surroundings offer a peaceful space for reflection and connection with others who understand the complexities of grief.

Walkabouts are a symbolic journey and rite of passage. In grief, we walk a journey not chosen by us, but one that demonstrates our deep love. Grief is not a problem to be solved. Instead, it’s an expression to be lived and a life passage from who we used to be into who we are becoming, all while honoring our beloved. Sharing this experience with others can provide comfort and a sense of community during a time that often feels isolating.

Part of the path has some elevation. You will want to pack water, a snack, and dress appropriately, including good walking shoes. Feel free to bring a walking stick or anything that supports your comfort. If there’s rain in the forecast, the group might be cancelled for safety reasons, but updates will be provided as needed.

No registration required. Just come on out and walkabout!

Saturday, October 11, 2025 (Second Saturday of the Month)
9:30 AM – 11:00 AM
Sycamore Lake Rotary Park
400 N Cross St, Sycamore, IL 60178

In addition to A Walkabout With Grief, Northern Illinois Hospice offers a variety of other grief support groups tailored to different needs and communities, including:

  • Bridge of Hope, A Bereavement Care Group – Rockford
  • Bridge of Hope, A Bereavement Care Group – Sycamore
  • Memorial Pillow Workshops
  • Tranquil Tuesdays

For more information about these programs and how to register, please contact Northern Illinois Hospice at 815-398-0500.

We hope you will join us for A Walkabout With Grief on October 11, 2025 to take a meaningful step forward in your healing journey, connect with others who understand, and find comfort in nature’s quiet presence.

A Walkabout With Grief – September 13, 2025

Join Northern Illinois Hospice for A Walkabout With Grief on September 13, 2025 at Sycamore Lake Rotary Park.

A Walkabout With Grief is a group for semi-active adults who are grieving the loss of a loved one. You’ll experience 45 minutes of walking with 15 minutes of discussion at the start and end of each session. It’s a beautiful setting with a paved walking path, intermittent shade, and benches available along the path to sit and view the small lake. The natural surroundings offer a peaceful space for reflection and connection with others who understand the complexities of grief.

Walkabouts are a symbolic journey and rite of passage. In grief, we walk a journey not chosen by us, but one that demonstrates our deep love. Grief is not a problem to be solved. Instead, it’s an expression to be lived and a life passage from who we used to be into who we are becoming, all while honoring our beloved. Sharing this experience with others can provide comfort and a sense of community during a time that often feels isolating.

Part of the path has some elevation. You will want to pack water, a snack, and dress appropriately, including good walking shoes. Feel free to bring a walking stick or anything that supports your comfort. If there’s rain in the forecast, the group might be cancelled for safety reasons, but updates will be provided as needed.

No registration required. Just come on out and walkabout!

Saturday, September 13, 2025 (Second Saturday of the Month)
9:30 AM – 11:00 AM
Sycamore Lake Rotary Park
400 N Cross St, Sycamore, IL 60178

In addition to A Walkabout With Grief, Northern Illinois Hospice offers a variety of other grief support groups tailored to different needs and communities, including:

  • Bridge of Hope, A Bereavement Care Group – Rockford
  • Bridge of Hope, A Bereavement Care Group – Sycamore
  • Memorial Pillow Workshops
  • Tranquil Tuesdays

For more information about these programs and how to register, please contact Northern Illinois Hospice at 815-398-0500.

We hope you will join us for A Walkabout With Grief on September 13, 2025 to take a meaningful step forward in your healing journey, connect with others who understand, and find comfort in nature’s quiet presence.

Tranquil Tuesdays – September 2, 2025

Grief can sometimes feel overwhelming and isolating, making it difficult to find peace or a way forward. Nature offers a gentle, restorative space where we can break free from the cycle of stress and sorrow. Northern Illinois Hospice invites you to join us for Tranquil Tuesdays on September 2, 2025, a free weekly grief support group held in the beautiful surroundings of Anderson Japanese Gardens. Beginning June 3, 2025 until September 2, 2025, every Tuesday from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM we will come together to explore the grief in our lives and discover new ways to grow through sharing our stories of loss.

Each session takes place rain or shine at the Pavilion in the middle of the garden. This peaceful setting encourages reflection and connection, allowing participants to experience healing in a supportive, natural environment. Whether you are coping with a recent loss or continuing your journey with grief, this group offers a safe space to express your feelings and find comfort among others who understand.

Tuesday, September 2, 2025 (and every Tuesday)
10:30 AM – NOON
Anderson Japanese Gardens
318 Spring Creek Road, Rockford

The event is free to attend, but pre-registration is required. Please check in at the Visitor’s Center upon arrival to receive your entry sticker. Anderson Japanese Gardens is located at 318 Spring Creek Road in Rockford.

In addition to Tranquil Tuesdays, Northern Illinois Hospice offers a variety of other grief support groups tailored to different needs and communities, including:

  • Bridge of Hope, A Bereavement Care Group – Rockford
  • Bridge of Hope, A Bereavement Care Group – Sycamore
  • A Walkabout With Grief
  • Memorial Pillow Workshop

For more information about these programs and how to register, please contact Northern Illinois Hospice at 815-398-0500.

We hope you will join us for Tranquil Tuesdays on September 2, 2025 to find peace, connection, and hope on this path through grief.

Tranquil Tuesdays

N Illinois Hospice
  • 815.398.0500
  • FAQs
  • Events
  • Donate Now
  • Careers
  • Contact
  • Veteran Support
  • Joint Commission Public Notice

SUBSCRIBE TO NEWSLETTER

©2025 NORTHERN ILLINOIS HOSPICE

HOSPICE PRIVACY POLICY

Call us: 815.398.0500
  • FAQs
  • Donate
  • Events
  • Volunteer Portal Home
  • Referrers
    • Physicians
    • Affiliates/Partners
    • Make a Referral
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies.
Cookie settingsACCEPT
Privacy & Cookies Policy

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience.
Necessary
Always Enabled
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
SAVE & ACCEPT