Community gathers in Sunrise for the Hearts in Harmony free town hall on August 26 to honor National Grief Awareness Day

Sunrise, Florida – The City of Sunrise will soon host an evening dedicated to healing, connection, and conversation as residents come together for the Hearts in Harmony Town Hall. The free community event is scheduled for Tuesday, August 26, 2025, beginning at 5:30 p.m. at Nob Hill Soccer Club Park, located at 10200 Sunset Strip in Sunrise. Organized in recognition of National Grief Awareness Day, the program will feature local experts, mindfulness practices, and an open forum for discussion.

The gathering is designed to give neighbors a safe space to acknowledge the many ways grief touches lives and to learn from those who specialize in helping individuals and families navigate loss. “Whether you seek support, resources, or a space to breathe, you are welcome here,” the event announcement explains. The goal is to make sure no one feels they are moving through difficult times alone.

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The evening’s program will begin with calming mindfulness exercises led by Amanda Ramirez, Program Manager at the Children’s Bereavement Center. This opening practice will help set the tone for reflection and open dialogue. Ramirez will also return at the close of the event to guide participants in another exercise, creating a balanced start and finish to the evening.

Moderating the Town Hall will be Sunrise City Commissioner Latoya S. Clark, who will guide the conversation and introduce the panelists. The panel includes professionals from across South Florida who work daily with individuals experiencing grief and loss. Julissa Reynoso, LMHC and Director of Programming at the Children’s Bereavement Center, will bring clinical insight into how young people and families can process difficult emotions. Linda Hernandez, LCSW of Gilda’s Club South Florida, will share strategies rooted in community-based support, while Judy Albelo from NAMI Broward County is expected to highlight the mental health resources available locally. In addition, Loyda Molina from New York Life will provide a perspective on practical tools and planning that can ease stress during times of hardship.

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Audience members will have the chance to ask questions during an open Q&A segment. This portion of the program is intended to let participants speak directly with the panelists, gaining advice that is both personal and practical. Organizers hope the format encourages honest dialogue and helps people walk away with not just resources but also a sense of community support.

The Hearts in Harmony Town Hall is free to attend, but pre-registration is encouraged to help organizers prepare. Residents can sign up through Eventbrite at heartsharmony.eventbrite.com.

National Grief Awareness Day serves as a reminder that grief is a universal human experience, yet one that can feel isolating without the right connections and support. Events such as this Town Hall give communities a way to address grief together—by listening, sharing, and finding comfort in the presence of others.