Connecting Hearts and Healing Wounds

In a world where grief often isolates, Empower guides children and young adults who have experienced the loss of a parent. Founded in 2013 by Cara Belvin, Empower has evolved from a start-up to an international nonprofit, offering vital support and mentorship to those navigating the complexities of grief.

Mission and Vision

At the heart of Empower's mission is the desire to empower, support, and connect children and young adults up to age 24 who have experienced the loss of a parent. Through a range of programs and events, Empower aims to remind these individuals that they are not alone in their grief journey. Their vision extends beyond mere survival; they strive to show that loss is survivable and that life can be rich and fulfilling even in the face of tragedy.

Inspiration and Evolution

Cara Belvin's personal experience of losing her mother to breast cancer at the young age of nine inspired the creation of Empower. Recognizing the profound impact of community support during her own grief journey, Cara founded Empower to provide similar solace and connection to others facing similar challenges. From its humble beginnings around a dining room table, Empower has grown exponentially, now boasting thousands of volunteers across the globe.

Since its inception, Empower has continually evolved to meet the changing needs of its community. What started as a support network for teenage girls on Mother's Day has expanded to encompass all children and young adults who have lost a parent. This inclusivity reflects Empower's commitment to serving as a resource for anyone in need of support and understanding.

Empower distinguishes itself through its unique one-on-one mentor program, pairing individuals with positive role models who can empathize with their experiences of loss. Additionally, Empower provides a nurturing community and peer support, essential elements for healthy grief processing and development. Importantly, all of Empower's programs are non-therapeutic, community-based, and entirely volunteer-driven, ensuring accessibility for all families regardless of financial means.

Community Impact 

Empower's impact on the local community is profound, having provided mentorship and events to over 300 children who have experienced parent loss since its inception. Looking ahead, Empower aims to further expand its reach, particularly focusing on increasing male mentorship and extending its programs to more families in need of support. By nurturing a culture of empathy and understanding, Empower continues to weave itself into the fabric of communities, offering solace and hope to those who need it most.

Embracing the South Shore

For Cara Belvin, calling the South Shore home is a source of great pride and inspiration. Its coastal beauty, strong community spirit, and close-knit atmosphere provide an ideal backdrop for Empower's mission of healing and connection. The support and camaraderie of South Shore residents have been instrumental in Empower's growth and success, highlighting the region's unique blend of warmth, compassion, and resilience.

As Empower continues to expand its reach and impact, it remains grounded in its commitment to fostering healing, resilience, and connection in the face of loss. Through the unwavering dedication of its founder, volunteers, and supporters, Empower continues to light the way for those navigating the often challenging terrain of grief, proving that even in the darkest moments, there is always hope and the promise of brighter tomorrows.