Rick's Place Inc.

Did you know that about 4% of young people under 18 experienced the death of a parent?

Rick’s Place, Inc is an independent, non-profit based in Wilbraham that supports young people and their families following the death of someone close.

In March of 2007, with the support of Ray and Marilyn Thorpe, Rick's close friends from high school chose to honor his memory by opening Rick's Place. Rick Thorpe, a young father and Wilbraham, Massachusetts native who died in Tower 2 of the World Trade Center attacks on 9/11. Grieving young people (ages 5-18 years) and their families are welcome at Rick's Place regardless of when, where or how the death occurred.

Services are free of charge.

With compassionate support Rick's Place facilitates healing and reduces isolation for grieving young people. Further we strive to curb the potentially harmful and destructive behaviors that can occur among children and teens who do not get the support they need following the death of a parent or sibling.

Young people meet in small groups with others their age where they can make new friends and share memories wtih trained facilitators; while their adult caregivers meet seperately to share the challenges raising of a grieving child.

Please give your support of this important service!