One of the things many people face when grieving the loss of a loved one is the fear of forgetting him or her and what they meant to you. At Allen Memorial Home, our team is committed to helping our neighbors in Endicott and Binghamton honor a friend or family member in a number of meaningful ways to keep their memory alive forever.

For some, this looks like including personalized details in a funeral or memorial service. Perhaps a photo or video tribute is created that perfectly captures passions, interests, and hobbies. They can keep that tribute forever. Those who choose cremation often find special significance through scattering the majority of the cremated remains at a location significant to their loved one, while keeping some in a special keepsake or piece of cremation jewelry.

Another popular way to honor a memory is to donate to a charity or foundation in your loved one’s name. This is a thoughtful and caring way to express your love and make a difference for a cause held dear. When donating, remember this: The amount is not important. Rather, it’s what the donation means to you.

The holiday season can be a perfect time – both for you and for the charity you donate to – for your gift. Seasonal events can bring sadness to the surface and intensify other painful emotions. Giving a gift can help ease that pain. Also, for many nonprofit organizations, the end of the year is a critical time for their budgets. Since it’s the end of the year, many people give gifts to take advantage of the tax write-off. Many charities exist for many months on the funds that come in at the end of the year. You can be a part of that support. . . and all in your loved one’s memory.

Remembering your friend or family member and helping others – what a wonderful way to embrace and express love this time of year!

If you need more help with grief during the holiday season, don’t forget to visit our website for other resources. Our blog has more articles on grief, we can connect you with grief support groups, and we also have online, interactive grief support if you need help right away.

And remember that the professional staff at Allen Memorial Home is ready to sit down with you anytime to answer your questions or help you through life’s ups and downs. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us.