Free Webinar: What Are ACEs and Why Do They Matter?

Presenter: Annette Mendez

Grief does not happen in isolation—it is shaped by the experiences we carry into it. For children and adults alike, early challenges such as trauma, instability, or loss can influence how grief is expressed and processed later in life. These are known as Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs).

What ACEs and PACEs are and why they matter in the grief journey

How adversity can affect the ways children and families respond to loss

The role of positive relationships and supportive environments in building resilience

Practical strategies caregivers, educators, and community members can use to nurture healing and hope

This session is designed for caregivers, school staff, clinicians, and community members who want to better understand the impact of childhood experiences on grief—and learn simple, research-based ways to support resilience.

Annette Mendez is a Certified Grief Educator trained by David Kessler and serves as the Training & Curriculum Manager at Good Grief, a New Jersey–based nonprofit that builds resilience in children, strengthens families, and empowers communities. She is also a Certified Child Development Specialist for the State of New Jersey and a former educator with extensive experience supporting young people and those who care for them. A passionate advocate for children and families, she specializes in creating grief-informed, developmentally appropriate training and resources. Her work focuses on helping caregivers, educators, and communities understand how loss and adversity shape children and how resilience can be built through connection, compassion, and support.

Registration Link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_zpAbh2UQRp2NZJGzQhiVvQhttps://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_LxOB2mwAS2WVx69tCavV3A#/registration