Community Hospice and Lit Youngstown will offer a six-week community writing group for anyone experiencing grief at any stage. The group will meet 6-8 p.m. on Mondays beginning Aug. 29. Sessions occur at the Columbiana Public Library, 332 N. Middle St., Columbiana 44408.

Lit Youngstown is a nonprofit literary organization that engages with the community through writing, reading and storytelling. Community Hospice is a nonprofit, community based organization providing palliative, hospice and bereavement services across six counties in northeast Ohio. Organizers hope to reach those interested in writing and sharing with others who are grieving.

Community-based writing groups have been found to positively impact participants’ self-esteem, hopefulness, feelings of support, and decrease anxiety, depression and other psychological symptoms.

“So many of us are experiencing grief right now; the loss of loved ones, a sudden change in lifestyle related to the pandemic, the weight of being a caretaker – grief takes many forms. Meanwhile, it feels like no one is talking about it,” said Chary Greier Hively, volunteer coordinator for Community Hospice’s Columbiana County Office.

“The experience of loss and grieving is shared by so many, and we are so pleased to work with Community Hospice on this project which will provide a safe and nurturing space for grieving individuals to create and to share in the company of others who are walking similar paths,” said Melanie Murphy, Lit Youngstown outreach coordinator.

For more information, email Murphy at

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Columbiana Public Library

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