How We Help
Ahava Bereavement provides shiva coordination and other bereavement services to the Jewish community in Montgomery County, MD and surrounding areas.
We hold the hand of families through the early days of loss, navigating the decisions and administrative logistics around setting up shiva events and other necessities. Too often these responsibilities fall to the immediate family, straining them when clear thinking is a challenge. Ahava Bereavement is your partner in these tasks so the bereaved can focus on processing their loss and being with their community.
My sister’s sudden death was shocking. Family and friends were immediately overwhelmed with the deep sadness of her passing and the need to prepare for several nights of shiva. In the midst of this challenging time, Grace emerged as a beacon of support. Her remarkable ability to coordinate every detail, especially ensuring there was an abundance of comforting food, alleviated a significant burden for my grieving family. Grace provided compassion, care, and dedication that were invaluable during those difficult days.
Audrey R.
Potomac, MD
How It Works
Your contact inquiry will be responded to within 4 hours of receipt between the hours of 7 AM and 9 PM. Inquiries received after 9 PM will be responded to the next day (including Shabbat, if requested). We will schedule a one-hour in-person or video meeting to discuss what you are looking for and begin planning details such as shiva location, date, and time, food preferences/allergies, special requests, and identify a point person for communication. This one-hour planning session will save you multiple hours of communication with well-meaning friends and family (when you may not be up for it) and fragmented decision-making.
After our planning meeting, Ahava Bereavement will communicate with inquirers and keep track of all shiva donations, collecting contact information and keeping donation information confidential if requested.
My Story
The idea for Ahava Bereavement roots from my lived experience being a three-time survivor of grief in my immediate and close family. Between 2015 and 2022, I lost both my parents and infant nephew, who was born prematurely. In each instance, the funeral and shiva arrangements fell on my shoulders. I realized there was a need to delegate those administrative tasks to someone else who isn’t connected to the loss. Ahava Bereavement aims to be your personal assistant, navigator, and helping hand during unimaginable grief.
I am an active member of Washington Hebrew Congregation and a proud wife and mother to a boy and girl, ages 3 and 4. In my “day job” I am a public health and healthcare strategy leader, bringing tikkun olam to my everyday work.
Thank you for trusting me with your heart.