An End of the Year Message from Ann

Dear Friends, Family, and Supporters

In the final weeks of 2021, like most of us, I find myself reflecting on this year. Honestly, I’m still processing the incredible growth and milestones the Brian Dagle Foundation has accomplished over the past twelve months. 

Brian’s Healing Hearts hosted its first facilitator training so that we could expand the grief support groups to meet the increasing needs of people seeking support. The added groups allow us to open our doors and our virtual space to meet people where they are at and simply hold space for their grief. In this work, we are always reminded that it takes a village. I like to think that we’re part of that village by offering support groups, workshops, and individual grief therapy. We are grateful to offer the grief programs for free. 

One of my cherished memories of 2021 is the “An Evening of Remembrance”, that was in July. It was a  somber tribute to acknowledge the lives lost in Southeastern Connecticut to covid. The soaring temperatures did not hinder the 30 plus volunteers who came out to prep and distribute the over 800 luminaries along Main Streets in Niantic to make it all happen. 

Throughout 2021, I was asked to teach suicide prevention and mental health programs. This year I reached thousands of people, virtually throughout the state. Education communities, state and local agencies, and businesses, listened and learned about the once taboo subject on how to support people in a mental health crisis. Now, more than ever, we need to continue this conversation. 

And then there was you! Our supporters, sponsors, and volunteers. Without your trust in our mission, we could not make this happen. When we ask. you say yes. We are sincerely humbled by your generosity of time and resources.  
The Brian Dagle Foundation began in 2014, Brian’s Healing Hearts opened in 2018. Never could I have envisioned the impact we have made on so many lives. For anyone we’ve reached, you are the reason. 
Thank you opening your hearts to us. We look forward to see what is ahead for us in 2022. 

Wishing you moments of peace-
Ann