The Right Place When Nothing Feels Right

At Dougy Center, you will find support, resources, and connection before and after a death.

Learn more through Dougy Center's grief education opportunities

Join a webinar, take an online course, or visit us in person. Grief education an important component of Dougy Center's mission, reaching thousands of people from the United States and around the world. Our education and training opportunities are available to anyone supporting children and families who are grieving.

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Talking with kids and teens about school shootings and other mass tragedies

We know that school shootings and other mass tragedies affect so many more people than just those who are directly impacted. If you or someone you know needs ideas for talking to children about this or other tragic events, find Dougy Center resources through the link below.

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Become a Volunteer Facilitator

Dougy Center volunteer facilitators work directly with kids, teens, young adults, and their adult family members, and play a crucial role in ensuring access to our bereavement program.

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Find Grief Support Near You

Locate peer grief support groups in Portland and around the world.

What We Do

At Dougy Center, we create safe spaces and free resources for children and families who are grieving. Our pioneering peer grief support model, professional training, and world-renowned programs and advocacy bring hope and healing around the world.

Training & Community Response

Our Services

The Impact of Dougy Center

Read stories about the positive impact of Dougy Center on children and families who are grieving

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When Families Feel Understood: Meet Derek and Taylor

Derek and Taylor started going to Dougy Center after Tamara, Derek's wife and Taylor's mom died when Taylor was just 14. Derek and Taylor suddenly found themselves navigating grief without anyone who truly understood the magnitude of what they were experiencing. “We each felt so alone through the illness, struggling to cope, and without any peer group of families going through the same thing,” Derek recalled. A social worker at Providence St. Vincent ICU suggested Dougy Center. “After we got to Dougy Center, we were not alone in navigating our grief,” Derek said. “We had somewhere to share our deepest thoughts with people who ‘got it.’” For Taylor, the impact was immediate. “Going to Dougy Center normalized her tragic experience,” Derek shared, “She was not alone in what she had experienced, was feeling, and how she was trying to cope.” Her favorite part was the conversations — “talking, comparing notes with other teens, feeling heard and not quite so alone.”

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Grief Out Loud Podcast

Grief Out Loud® is our internationally acclaimed podcast where we talk openly about death, dying, and grief

Latest Episode
April 23rd, 2026

Tips For Grieving Through Mother's Day

Mother's Day is approaching - Sunday, May 10th, 2026 - and it's a "holiday" that comes with lots of mixed emotions for those who are grieving. Whether you're a child grieving a parent, a parent grieving a child, or anyone who is carrying grief into the day, this episode might be for you. We explore why holidays connected to particular relationships can be so tough in grief and outline ideas for navigating both the lead-up and the day itself. This episode originally aired in April 2015. read more...

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News & Events

Event Reflection Benefit 2026

May 8th, 2026

2026 Reflection Benefit & Auction

Champion the life-changing support found at Dougy Center during Reflection on Friday, May 8. One of Portland's premier events, this fabulous evening at the Hyatt Regency Portland features original art made by Dougy Center youth, an elegant dinner, and a spectacular auction. We look forward to seeing you!

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Article

April 13th, 2026

Tips for Acknowledging Mother's Day when you're grieving

Like many holidays throughout the year, Mother’s Day (and Father’s Day) can spark a multitude of emotions, especially when you’re grieving. This resource provides tips that may help you and your family acknowledge the day.

Article

April 20th, 2026

Thank You FOX12 Oregon

As part of Dougy Center’s 2026 Reflection Benefit & Auction, we are shining the spotlight on our generous corporate sponsors and partners. This week we are recognizing our Exclusive Media Sponsor, FOX 12 Oregon! We are proud to have FOX 12 Oregon as a partner in elevating the needs of children and families who are grieving. Thank you!  Your generosity is making a positive difference in our community. We can’t wait to celebrate with you on May 9th, and we look forward to welcoming Tony Martinez as our event emcee.

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About Dougy Center

Dougy Center was founded in 1982 to support children and families who are grieving before and after a death. Today, The Dougy Center Model is world-renowned and has helped thousands of people find hope and healing.

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