Photos courtesy of Billy’s Place
In a heartfelt tribute to loved ones lost, Billy’s Place invites the community to participate in the 11th annual Hike for Hope event, a poignant journey of remembrance and support for those dealing with grief. Scheduled for Saturday, March 2, the hike will commence at 8 a.m. in WestWing at Copper Hills Church near Sunrise Mountain, located at 27035 N. Black Rock Blvd., in Peoria.
This mission-driven event, which shines a light on grief, is designed to be family-friendly, catering to all ages. Attendees can look forward to a day filled with therapy animals, music, raffles, activities, and food. The day promises not just a physical hike but an emotionally supportive experience, providing a space for healing and remembrance.
Registration for the hike begins at 8 a.m. and remains open until 10 a.m. Participants, whether individuals or groups, can start their self-guided hike at their own pace, with an estimated hour needed to complete the trail. The registration fee is $40 per person, with the option to form larger teams online. Advanced registration is required to ensure participants receive a commemorative t-shirt, though last-minute registrations are welcomed on the day. Interested individuals can register directly at billysplace.me, where sponsorship opportunities and personalized yard signs featuring a photo of a special person are also available for purchase.
Billy’s Place, a community haven in the West Valley, offers a range of programs aimed at supporting grieving children and families. These programs include no-cost peer-to-peer grief support groups, grief informed schools training, a grief resource center, and community support and education. Catering to children and youth aged 3 to 30 and their family members, Billy’s Place provides a safe and nurturing environment for those who have experienced the death of a parent, sibling, or primary caregiver.
The peer support groups at Billy’s Place are particularly impactful. They offer a range of activities designed to facilitate discussions about death through play, art, storytelling, music, and conversation. These activities provide a vital outlet for children and young adults to express their feelings and begin the healing process in a supportive community setting.
Juli McGreal, founder of Billy’s Place, emphasizes the importance of the Hike for Hope in the community: “Our community has been so supportive of Billy’s Place while helping those who are struggling with grief. This hike is a time of year where families always know they can come together and celebrate those who are no longer with us. What a beautiful way to honor your special person.”
