The HAP Foundation | Grief workshop at TFD

The HAP Foundation is a nonprofit organization that provides guidance, direction, and grief support for all ages.

The Grief Workshop, held at The Firehouse Dream with the HAP Foundation, gave community members a safe space to talk about grief, learn about the different stages, and understand the emotions one may be feeling during these stages. Participants shared, reflected, and created memory jars as a way to cope and honor their people and moments in their lives. They also learned that grief can show up in many different ways, and everyone was encouraged to honor their own experiences. One of the Community Health Workers, Kaitlyn Macias, also shared resources, including information about their grief circles to support our community.

Mental Health Kit Giveaway at Proviso West

Our team went to Proviso West High School for another giveaway of the Mental Health Kits! We were able to give away 41 kits to students. We introduced the students to The Firehouse Dream, sharing how the space and the programs are intentional with creativity, healing, and empowerment. Our Community Engagement Coordinator, Jessica, connected directly with the students, explaining what’s inside the kits and how they can be used.

Thank you, Proviso West High School, for having us and partnering with us in supporting student wellness and emotional well-being.

Candle Making at TFD

This candle-making workshop was led by both Liz, our Program Coordinator, and Jess, our Community Engagement Coordinator. For this workshop, it was a 2-in-1, where candle making was mixed in with a check-in circle.

They started with introductions, as each neighbor wrote down their names and chose a word that started with the letter of their first name. Next, they had the choice to select from inspiring stickers, and paint markers to decorate their candles. This allowed them to add a personal touch that reflected themselves and their stories. Each person then shared the meaning of their candle with the group.

While the candles hardened, they shifted back into a check-in circle where they played games, and fostered deeper connection and belong as a community.

Be sure to check out some of our favorite photos from this workshop below!

This program is partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council.

Self Esteem in Clay

We gathered for a workshop called Self-Esteem in Clay, led by Yekseny Guerrero. Tables were set with clay and tools ready for sculpting. Yekseny began by introducing the workshop and inviting everyone to reflect on the connection between creativity and self-esteem. As the group settled in, each participant took a moment to introduce themselves.

With clay in hand, participants shaped and molded their ideas into form. The process wasn’t just about technique - it was about expression. When everyone was done, we went around and everyone shared what they had made and why. These reflections led to further conversations about emotions, identity, and the way we express ourselves.

A heartfelt thank you to all who joined us. Your openness, honesty, and willingness to share what each of you are going through made the workshop a meaningful one.

This program is partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council.

PMSA MHC | Grief Workshop Pt 1 & 2

At PMSA’s Mental Health Club, we welcomed Kaitlyn Macias, who is part of the HAP Foundation. She shared valuable resources on grieving and coping. She guided the students in identifying ways to support themselves and others through loss. Additionally, offering tools and sources of support for navigating difficult emotions. As part of the session, students created grief jars that were about someone they had lost. They wrote down the memories they shared with them and placed it in the grief jars.