Death Cafes - Life Conversations

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A hand gesturing with warmth and with an open palm against a blurred background of trees and sunlight.

In the warmth of a historic Cannery Row home, we gather for meaningful conversations about life's greatest mystery.

What is a Death Cafe?

A Death Cafe is a safe, welcoming space to speak openly about death, dying, and grief—not as something to fear, but as a natural part of our human experience. There's no agenda, no experts leading the way, just honest conversation over tea and treats. These gentle gatherings offer permission to voice questions, share stories, and explore feelings we often keep private.

Why Attend?

In a culture that tends to avoid talking about death, coming together in honest conversation can bring unexpected relief, deeper connection, and a richer appreciation for life itself. You might arrive with curiosity, uncertainty, or a story you've been carrying alone. You'll leave having been truly heard, knowing you're not alone in navigating life's most tender mysteries.

Your Facilitators

These gatherings are co-facilitated by Linda Goulet and Erin Michael. Erin is a local artist and griefwalker involved with the Equine Healing Collaborative who has found her calling in supporting community education and connection around death and dying. Together, we hold space for honest conversation and meaningful exploration of life's most tender topics.

Take It With You

Our hope extends beyond these gatherings. Each participant will receive guidance for hosting their own death cafes—because these conversations belong everywhere, in every community, around every table. We want to empower you to cultivate your own circles of honest dialogue and normalize death, dying, and grief wherever you are. We'll support you in every way we can as you continue this vital conversation.

Supporting Community

These donation-based evenings support Jerry's Place Hospice, an organization dedicated to compassionate end-of-life care in our community.

Upcoming Death Cafe Gatherings

  • Three Class Series: Deepening the Conversation

    This spring, we're offering something special—a journey through three connected evenings that move from conversation into action, from listening into creation.

    Session 1: The Nuts and Bolts of Death and Dying
    Thursday, March 12, 6-8pm
    We begin with the practical—exploring local resources and the tangible aspects of death and dying that often feel overwhelming to navigate alone. This session grounds us in what's available and accessible in our community.

    Session 2: Open Forum on Grief and Commemoration
    Thursday, April 2, 6-8pm
    Here we open the circle wide for honest dialogue about grief in all its forms and the many ways we honor those we've lost. Bring your questions, your stories, and your heart.

    Session 3: Ritual and Bundle of Remembrance
    Thursday, May 7, 6-8pm
    Our final gathering becomes hands-on as we create something tangible together—a ritual object, a written remembrance, something of the earth to carry forward. You'll leave with both what you've made and the knowledge to continue this work in your own life.

    Investment: Attendance is free and if possible, we request a $45 for all three sessions. All proceeds benefit Jerry's Place Hospice, you are welcome to make further cash donations at the gathering.

    Please email Linda Anne at Linda@gou-chi.com for an alternate means of registration.

    Capacity: Limited to 14 participants to maintain intimate, meaningful connection.

    Location: Historic Cannery Row home (address shared upon registration)