About Our Child Lives
Our Story of Hope and Healing
Our Child Lives was born out of heartbreak - but also out of faith.
In 2017, founder Lynn Gilkey experienced the unimaginable loss of her son, Ryan.
In her own words, “The first year after Ryan’s passing was a blur. I felt alone and stuck, like the world kept turning while I stood still in my grief.”
Through that darkness, God planted a seed - a calling to bring light to other mothers who were also mourning. What began as one woman’s healing journey has grown into a ministry of compassion, connection, and faith-driven restoration.
Our Mission:
Our Child Lives is a dedicated nonprofit focused on bereavement care to mothers mourning the loss of their child/children. It offers a sense of companionship through grief support groups, remembrance events, and healing activities designed to ease the isolation often experienced during mourning. The ministry's primary objective is to promote self-care, healing and to rekindle hope through faith and biblical promises.
What We Offer:
- Support Groups: Safe, faith-based spaces to share and heal alongside other mothers who understand.
- Remembrance Events: Gatherings to honor and celebrate the children who live forever in our hearts.
- Healing Activities: Workshops and gatherings that nurture the mind, body, and spirit.
- Grief Baskets: A gift of comfort and care to mothers newly facing loss.
- Volunteer Network: A compassionate community serving with empathy and purpose.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Our Child Lives Ministry?
Our Child Lives is a faith-based nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting mothers grieving the loss of a child. Through grief support groups, remembrance events, and healing activities, we aim to foster hope, healing, and community.
Who can participate in the grief support groups?
Any mother who has experienced the loss of a child is welcome. You can join at any stage of your loss - whether recent or years past. We offer an 8-week “Hope in the Valley” grief support program led by trained volunteers. Participants must commit to confidentiality and respectful sharing.
When are your support group sessions?
We meet for an 8-week course twice a year. Once in July and then again in October.
Is there a cost to join the support group?
There is a one-time registration fee which covers meals/ snacks and materials for the full 8- week sessions.
Are the facilitators licensed counselors?
No. Our facilitators are Christian women with a heart for ministry. While not licensed therapists, they are committed to providing compassionate, faith-based support.
What kind of self-care resources do you offer?
We provide guidance on physical and emotional self-care during grief, including Bible study, journaling, mindfulness, nature walks, and creative expression. These resources are shared during group sessions.
How can I get involved or volunteer?
Volunteer InfoWe welcome volunteers for events, support groups, and fundraising efforts. You can express interest via our contact form or email us directly at ourchildlives@gmail.com.
Can I donate or sponsor an event?
Contact UsYes. Sponsorships help fund grief sessions, remembrance events, and outreach. We welcome financial support, in-kind donations, and partnerships. Contact us to learn more.
Is confidentiality maintained in support groups?
Absolutely. All participants sign a confidentiality agreement. Sharing is encouraged in a safe, respectful, and judgment-free environment.
How can I give someone a "Grieving with Hope" gift basket?
Request a Grief BasketIf you know someone who has lost a child recently, please feel free to fill out the form located via the button below.
Interested in helping out?
Your support brings comfort, care, and hope to mothers who need it most. See all the ways you can give.