Compassionate community service....

Once a month, host a “Widows Luncheon” at your location or a nearby restaurant. Offer this free lunch and social event to all widows in the community. Soon, you'll see these women look forward to gathering, and the lunch will grow as others join in. There is a shared bond—uplifting them through their struggles—and you will continue to demonstrate the compassion you hold for the community.
 
Tips:

• Collaborate! Keep costs low by partnering with a restaurant, a catering service, or another partner. This highlights their food in a meaningful, supportive way. Another option is partnering with a community organization or healthcare provider, both of which are always looking for greater support for families in the community, and you gain a supportive network. (You can even ask some of the churches, your vendors, or other sponsors for a month.

 

• Schedule this event consistently for the same day and time each month. I recommend choosing a day in the first week, like the first Thursday, which will align with any theme. Holding it at noon makes it simple to remember.  

 

• You may want to create a theme each month (this creates an uplifting feel):  

Jan.: New Year Theme
Feb: Valentine's Theme
March: St. Patty’s Day Theme
April: Spring Theme
May: Mother's Day
June: Beach Theme
July: Tropical Theme
August: Show-N-Tell Theme
September: Floral Theme
October: Fall Theme
Nov.: Thanksgiving Theme
Dec.: Christmas Theme

• Consider adding a guest each month or in certain months. I recommend mixing different types of guests, such as helpful experts and upbeat information. For example, you could include grief specialists, memory Garden specialists, a store's fashion show, an Easter bunny, a florist for floral arrangements, a crafter, lunch with police officers, a local author, one of your vendors, etc.

 
       IMPORTANT: 
Post the luncheon's date, time, and title on your website and social media. Distribute a media press release about the event and send another one a week before each monthly gathering. Request RSVPs from attendees (call in rsvp). Take photos, lots of photos and post them that week on your social media, send to press or other. Families will soon value your support for their loved ones, including your willingness to help and your receptiveness to assistance when needed.

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Remember: If you have any questions about creating a tip, don't hesitate to reach out to me at
​[email protected] — I believe in you and I'm here to help!