About Bershé Hope Foundation
We support grieving spouses/domestic partners and the children they leave behind—offering practical help, emotional guidance, education, and hope.
Who We Are
We exist to be a steady, compassionate presence for families navigating loss—and to help them rebuild with dignity and hope.
The Bershé Hope Foundation is a nonprofit supporting individuals and families coping with the death of a loved one. We focus on spouses or domestic partners and their children, providing “hard and soft” assistance—everything from practical resources to caring community support and education.
We believe grief is personal and non-linear. Our role is to walk alongside you, help you find tools that work for you, and connect you with support that brings real relief.
At a Glance
Based in Chicago, IL • EIN: 36-4676328 • Programs: Grief resources, scholarships, events & outreach
Who We Help
Spouses/domestic partners, children, extended family, and friends affected by loss. We offer guidance, curated resources, and referrals to counseling or local support groups.
How We Help
Practical support (checklists, education, scholarships) and emotional support (groups, events, peer community) delivered with empathy and respect.
A Letter from Our Founder
“In grief, small acts of care can become lifelines. This foundation began with that truth.”
A Note from Shelia J. Washington
After losing my fiancé, Bernard, on January 1, 2009, I didn’t think I would survive. The pain was overwhelming and the world felt like it kept moving while I stood still. What helped me begin to heal was the loving support of family, friends, and my faith—people who brought meals, checked in, and simply stayed present through the hardest days.
As I slowly found strength, I met more families enduring similar loss. My heart ached knowing how many people were walking this same path. In December 2009, I launched the Bershé Hope Foundation to offer others the kind of practical and emotional support that helped me—resources, guidance, community, and hope.
Wherever you are in your grief, please know this: you are not alone. We’re honored to walk with you.
— Shelia
Our Mission, Vision & Values
Clarity and compassion guide everything we do.
Mission
To impact the quality of life for families after loss and be a reliable, caring presence through resources, education, and community.
Vision
Communities where no one grieves in isolation—and every family can access practical help and pathways to healing.
Values
Compassion, dignity, faith, integrity, and service—expressed through real, everyday help.
Our Story
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Jan 2009Bernard’s passing; the personal journey that sparked a mission to help grieving families.
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Dec 2009Bershé Hope Foundation launched to offer practical & emotional support.
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2010–TodayCommunity events, resources, and scholarships expanded to serve more families and students.
Want to get involved or need support?