Let me give you a bit of background. My father died when I was 14. Back then there weren’t many resources to help kids process the loss of a loved one or preserve memories in healing ways. My mom, a widow under 50, was at a loss. Because of this, I’ve made it a bit of a mission to try to help families process and move through loss. Today there are more resources to help families process loss, but very few physical spaces to honor loved ones beyond a burial plot. If a family’s loved one dies in another state, it could be unlikely that a child will be part of a funeral or memorial. Plus, with the rise of cremation and green burials, having a place of ritual is not as common. All of these have contributed to our desire to have a place in Brooklyn where PSP families can go to just “be” in grief and loss.
Many of you know that we here at Park Slope Parents 
LOVE The Green-Wood Cemetery . PSP has partnered with GW on stroller tours, family tours, horticulture tours, webinars on How to Talk to Kids About Death, scavenger hunts, and more. This bench is one more way that Park Slope Parents can help with all aspects of parenting.
About the Bench Project
The bench will be located close to the front of the cemetery, in a place called “Garden Mausoleum 2” (see this map), beneath the shade of a beautiful bamboo trees, and near the tranquility of the koi pond kids can visit. Here, families will be able come together and find solace in their shared grief.
As part of the bench project, we will also have a printed packet (available at the front gate and online) with resources for parents to help children (and adults) grieve (in age appropriate ways), as well as ideas for how kids can remember loved ones. We will also partner with Green-wood with events related to remembering loved ones and sharing in grief.
We’re asking PSP members to help make this bench happen with donations. With your generous contribution, we can make this vision a reality. To donate securely online, please visit the donation page. Every donation, big or small, brings us closer to creating this lasting tribute. You can also mail a check payable to "The Green-Wood Cemetery" to 500 25th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11232 with a note that says, “PSP Bench.”
From remembering grandparents, aunts, family friends, and cherished pets, Green-Wood has always been a tranquil setting for reflection and remembrance. This bench will be a special place for families to rest, reflect, and share memories of those who have passed. Together, we can create a space of peace and remembrance at Green-Wood Cemetery for all who seek it.
All donations are fully tax-deductible contributions to The Green-Wood Historic Fund, a 501c3 non-profit. For questions about Park Slope Parents or this fundraiser, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. For questions about your donation, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. If you would like your donation to remain anonymous, please make a note in the comments box during checkout.
Thank you for your thoughtful consideration.
