Reflecting on 2025

December 31, 2025

Dear Friends of the Brian Dagle Foundation –

As I sit here on a quiet, sunny, and frigid cold last morning of December, I find myself reflecting on 2025 and searching for a word to describe the year and what it meant to the Brian Dagle Foundation.

In the first quarter of 2025 we celebrated our tenth anniversary with a tip of the hat to Brian, honoring his love for his Irish heritage with a celebration at the Garde Arts Theater with family, friends, and supporters of the foundation. That evening will forever hold a special place in our hearts. The love that evening was felt by everyone in attendance and a reminder of our reason why as we continue to share Brian’s love each day. The year continued to unfold at an unprecedented pace with educational trainings for mental health, suicide awareness, and grief education and we witnessed significant growth in our support group attendance. Further clarifying the need to continue on our path.

At the end of September, we hosted Dr. Alan Wolfelt, one the country’s leading death educators, authors and grief counselors. There were close to 300 attending two separate events. The first evening, grievers feelings were heard and validated at a presentation on grief and mourning. At the full day seminar, professionals were trained in the companioning model of grief: listening with heart, not analyzing with the head. We are proud that our work has become a valuable resource for educators, physicians, clinicians and more. With each heartfelt note and generous donations from people who walk through our doors, I am inspired to continue to touch the lives of people who need the support of those who understand.

There are many words that come to mind when reflecting on what 2025 was to the Brian Dagle Foundation and Brian’s Healing Hearts. Throughout the year, our community has reminded us that we are exactly where we need to be. Our community has proven time and again that the conversations on grief, hope, and healing are needed. Our community has helped elevate the importance of having the hard conversations on mental health and suicide awareness. The word that comes to my mind and heart when I think about the work we are doing is: AFFIRMATION.

Moving into 2026, we remain true to our mission – anchored in hope and empowered to support, we are dedicated to the healing of grieving adults as well as community education on mental health, suicide awareness, and the grieving process. We hope you’ll join us by attending a program, volunteering at an event, or making a donation.

With love and gratitude,
Ann, Paul, and the Brian Dagle Foundation Family