WillMar Center for Bereaved Children

The WillMar Center for Bereaved Children is a nonprofit, devoted to creating a support network for children and teenagers who are working through the loss of a loved one. It is located on the lower level of a single-family home style office building, with a porch and overhung roof. The interior rooms are homey and comfortable: There is a conference area; a main room with low tables, a piano, and cushions; a living area with couches; and a "bop room" lined with cushioned blocks (designed for safe emotional expression). The center provides numerous support groups for both children and their families. The programs include an art therapy group and individual counseling. The WillMar Center recently celebrated its tenth anniversary; it was founded in 2000 by Nina Sagal Gorbach, who specializes in family therapy. The center always encourages volunteers, and donors who are able to subsidize the cost of a child's participation in the program.