Valerie’s House Naples Featured in Florida Weekly

April 23, 2025
📖 Read the full article here: https://fortmyers.floridaweekly.com/articles/no-child-grieves-alone/

We’re incredibly grateful to be featured in Florida Weekly in a heartfelt article written by Joe Landon, highlighting the impact of Valerie’s House in Naples. The story, titled “No Child Grieves Alone,” shines a beautiful light on the work we’re doing to support grieving children and families in Collier County.

The article offers a meaningful look at the healing happening at Valerie’s House Naples through school-based support groups, peer nights, and individual grief counseling—all provided free of charge thanks to the support of our community.

We’re especially thankful to Mary Cross, Collier County Program Manager at Valerie’s House, for sharing how our programs create compassionate, safe spaces for children and families to process their grief together. We also extend our gratitude to Susan Rizzato, MSW, LCSW, Grief Therapist at Valerie’s House, whose care and expertise guide families through the waves of grief.

A special thank-you goes to Aaron White and Fort Myers Mayor Kevin Anderson, both valued members of the Valerie’s House Board of Directors, for sharing their personal stories and continued support for our mission.

And perhaps one of the most touching moments in the article comes from 9-year-old Abel, who simply said:
“It’s not sad here. There is a lot of hope.”

To Joe Landon and our friends at Florida Weekly, thank you for helping us share that message of hope. Your support ensures more children and families know they are not alone.