For Friends Grieving

Organize a group of friends to clean house – A family who has just lost a loved one and will have a houseful of people after a funeral will be appreciative of some help getting their house cleaned. Be sure to ask your friend if it’s OK for some “elves” to show up, and specify a time. Use your WhatFriendsDo.com team page to get the “elves” organized: suggest that everyone bring some cleaning supplies so you don’t have to hunt for them.

Plan a yardwork day – Even though yardwork is enjoyed by many people, it can be overwhelming for someone who has just lost a loved one. Help weeding the flowerbeds, mowing, or planting flowers will be welcome. Use your WhatFriendsDo.com team page to organize friends to spend an hour or two doing yardwork.

Share Memories – Ask friends to write letters to your deceased friend's family sharing memories. The letters can include how they met, what made them become friends, what qualities were admired, special events. Each and every letter will be a cherished gift.

Fix it! – A widow may find herself feeling helpless because of all the little things that used to be done by her husband. Tell your friend that you plan to stop by (tell her a particular day and time) and ask her to make a list of minor home repairs. Be sure to take your own tool box so you are sure to have what you need.

Plan an outing for the children – Grieving families with young children may have a tough time doing fun activities, but children will enjoy a trip to a museum, the zoo or a ballgame. This will also give adults in the family some time to take a break.

Offer to babysit – Create a hand-made certificate for babysitting (and then follow up with a suggested date and time to reinforce the sincerity of your offer.)

Make a lasting Tribute -- have a tree planted in your loved ones memory.