The Black Ribbon
The Black Ribbon Programs were created by Leonard McEwen, MSW, RSW, as a result of a presentation made to the Stony Plain Rotary Club. The presentation was a result of a visit of his to the Center for Loss. The programs are intended to support persons who have experienced a loss and are encountering difficulty in dealing with their grief and mourning.
Inspiration for the pin came from a conversation between Len and Dr. Alan Wolfelt at Wolfelt's Center for Loss in Ft. Collins, CO. Black Ribbons have now been sent around the world. They have been requested by hospice operators, physicians, cemeteries, funeral homes, family members and many others. They have helped communities heal after the loss of their young, helped individuals after the loss of family and friends.
The Rainbow Pin
The Rainbow Pin is a new addition and is intended for those who are mourning the loss of a pet. Pet grief is usually disenfranchised. The pin gives the opportunity for voice for their stories about the bond they shared with their pets and assistance in telling the stories to these mourners.
Both Pins are accompanied by cards. The cards often have more significance than the pins in that the pins tend to be passed from mourner to mourner while the card is kept and treasured by the original recipient. The pin are offered free of charge in small quantities to mourners. Persons requesting larger quantities are asked to contribute to the cost of the pins and cards.
Other resources are available to individuals who are currently providing or who are intending to provide grief support.
