Whether caring for elders, parents, children with special needs, or students, caregiving takes energy, effort, and time. At our “Care for the Caregivers” workshop in Puli, Taiwan, we focused on those giving so much they forget themselves, especially in cultures valuing sacrifice and duty. Through artmaking and storytelling, caregivers explored identity, emotions, and support systems, ending with red envelope blessings. The half-day centered on putting themselves first, because their wellbeing matters too.

Through art and story, we rediscovered the power of play through our Side Door Approach™ in Taichung and Puli, Taiwan. When direct communication fails, a more relational, casual way can build bridges. We invited youth and caregivers to create and connect before tackling hard questions, honoring the losses beneath tough moments. With educators, counselors, and caregivers, we explored how play, reflection, and community nurture connection, belonging, and care—including care for ourselves.

We joined Child Life Circle for a meaningful conversation with child life specialists on how culture shapes grief—how collectivistic values common in many Asian and Eastern families can differ from Western approaches. Together, we explored new ideas with openness and curiosity, reflecting on how to create spaces that honor diverse ways of grieving. We left encouraged by the humility of every helper, eager to learn, connect, and make all families feel seen and supported.

Our self-portrait journey encouraged dispelling negative self-talk, embracing life's stages, and finding where hope and joy begin. We acknowledged grief for unmet dreams but recognized worth is intrinsic, not tied to achievements. Through reflective art exercises with twenty women, we leaned into honesty and vulnerability, painting abstract portraits that celebrated our journeys from childhood to adulthood—anchored by affirmations of power, resilience, and hope as we all continue to grow.

Named one of the world’s “Coolest Neighborhoods” by Time Out, Avondale is home to Rooster & Hen Resources at The Art Colony, a creative space for makers and artists. Rooster & Hen was featured in Avondalia: In Chorus & Cohesion, an annual art show celebrating local creativity. Our interactive “Grief Links” installation invited community members to share stories, fostering connection, healing, and a welcoming environment for all ages.

At the 11th Annual Bereavement Conference, hosted by Because Kids Grieve, we presented Grief in Every Language: Hands-On Tools for Reaching the Whole Child. This training, rooted in story, art, and play, encouraged participants to explore how grief affects children emotionally, socially, cognitively, spiritually, and physically. Attendees re-engaged curiosity while gaining practical tools for schools, hospitals, and grief groups. We are grateful for this meaningful gathering and inspired by the community’s dedication to healing.

This summer, we partnered with the Chicago Park District to host a graphic novel workshop for grades K–2 campers at Holstein Park Day Camp. Over two engaging days, 80+ campers learned about book-making from Author Ms. Rebecca, brainstormed creative story ideas, and wrote and illustrated their own graphic ‘zines. We were amazed by the creativity and thoughtfulness on display—stories about beloved pets and even a book about Atlantis, the Lost City! They proudly shared their creations, supporting one another. We were honored to help these young authors tell their stories.

At the NACG Symposium, Rooster & Hen joined over 600 grief professionals in Kansas City to share resources and education, featuring “Moving In Forever” and other therapeutic books. Founder Rebecca Wu presented a session on children’s literature and creative expression, inspiring ‘zine-making. Rooster & Hen provided support journals and stickers, and it was rewarding to see participants use them for notetaking. We learned from seasoned organizations and are brainstorming ways to integrate new insights into our art and story-based work.

The Umbrella Arts Festival celebrated Asian American history, culture, and art, using the umbrella as a symbol of the diverse Asian American diaspora—spanning over 40 Asian, South Asian, Southeast Asian, and Pacific Island countries. The festival highlighted the intersections of identities within these communities and featured music, dance, food, and visual arts. Rooster & Hen Resources hosted a yarn art-making section, encouraging participants to use art to share stories and express emotions creatively.