Date of Award
5-2025
Access Control
Open Access
Degree Name
Master of Public Administration (MPA)
Department
Public Administration
Advisor
Dr. Laurie Buonanno
First Reader
Dr. Laurie Buonanno
Second Reader
Dr. Suparna Soni
Abstract
This needs assessment examines the grief support services provided by Laurel’s Grief Center (LGC), a nonprofit organization in Buffalo, New York, and identifies opportunities to expand tailored services for grieving adults in Western New York. Using a convergent mixed-methods design, this study collected data through semi-structured interviews with LGC board members and surveys with clients and peer volunteers. Key findings highlight the importance of peer-led, non-denominational grief support and creative approaches, such as art therapy, while identifying barriers, such as stigma, limited awareness, and fragmented regional services.
Based on these findings, this study recommends expanding healing arts programs, enhancing outreach to underserved populations, developing tailored programs for specific groups, strengthening the peer support model, and fostering collaboration among regional human service providers. Although limited by a small sample size, this assessment offers valuable insights for guiding LGC’s future programs and outreach efforts. Further research with larger and more diverse samples is needed to fully capture the grief support needs of the Western New York
Recommended Citation
Lange, Julia A., "Hope after grief and loss: A needs assessment of peer-led, non-denominational bereavement support services at Laurel’s Grief Center" (2025). Public Administration Master’s Projects. 35.
https://digitalcommons.buffalostate.edu/mpa_projects/35
Included in
Public Affairs, Public Policy and Public Administration Commons, Social Psychology Commons
