Common Ground Grief Center – Pay It Forward

This summer, 94.3 The Point and Irwin Cars in Freehold are teaming up to “Pay It Forward.” We’re visiting local non-profits and charities to spread the good word and lend a helping hand. Recently, I paid a visit to the Common Ground Grief Center in Manasquan.

Each and every visit during the 2013 Pay It Forward campaign has been special. This particular stop was a life changing experience for me.

Following the death of a loved one often leaves families feeling overwhelmed with not only their grief, but the day to day activities in their lives. Often, it is difficult for the surviving parent to help their children deal with the death, leaving the child to face their loss and pain alone.

Common Ground provides support groups for children ages 6-18, grouped according to age, and also groups for the surviving parent/primary caregiver.

I sat in a group session with an amazing group of kids who all shared their personal stories and showed me around the facility. I was honored to be among such strong children.

Through the use of art, play, music, sand play, and talking, Common Ground gives children the opportunity to share their grief stories and assist them in coping with their grief.

Most importantly, Common Ground is supported solely by private donations from individuals, corporations, foundations and grants. It is operated by Lynn Snyder, a licensed professional counselor in Manasquan, and an amazing group of vigorously trained volunteers.

The group at Common Ground will be coming to the radio station to take over my show and I can't wait.

Watch this video to get a look inside Common Ground Grief Center and consider making a donation.

94.3 The Point and Matt Ryan are looking to help local charities this summer and we need your help!

Tell us about your local charity. If you’re chosen, Matt and the Point Crew will come to your organization and help out for a day. We’ll throw a Pay It Forward wrap party at Rella’s Tavern for all the involved charities and one group will receive $1,000 from Irwin Cars.