Lory's Place, a cornerstone of grief support in St. Joseph, Michigan, was born from a profound personal tragedy and the community's response to it. The organization was established in 2004 in memory of Dr. Lory Schults, a beloved local physician and mother of two young children, whose life was tragically cut short in an automobile accident. In the wake of her death, the need for a dedicated space to support grieving families, and particularly children, became painfully apparent. This led to the creation of Lory's Place as a grief healing and education center based on the passionate efforts of its founding director, Lisa Bartoszek.
The vision for Lory's Place was to create a safe and welcoming environment where those experiencing loss could find solace and understanding among peers. The organization is founded on the principle of peer support, offering groups for children, teens, and adults to share their experiences and navigate the complex journey of grief together. The Schults family, including Lory's husband, Ron, was instrumental in the establishment of the center, ensuring that Lory's compassionate spirit would live on through the support offered to others in their darkest times.
Since its inception, Lory's Place has become an indispensable resource for Southwest Michigan and Northern Indiana. It provides a wide range of free services, including support groups, individual counseling, and community outreach programs. The story of Lory's Place is a powerful testament to how a community can transform a devastating loss into a beacon of hope and healing for countless individuals and families. It stands as a living memorial to Dr. Lory Schults, embodying her love for her children and her dedication to the well-being of others.
