Tu Nidito will always hold a special place in our hearts because one of the workers there was very, very kind to us. The intention of the organization is wonderful, and certainly if you don't have good friends or family to support you after the death of your child or parent, they are good place to turn to.
We are grateful for the support we received from them, as adults. However, we found their services for and policies around very young children were less than compassionate at times.
It also seemed to me, as a man, a little odd that their staff of a dozen people is exclusively female, and not diverse in other ways. This makes it harder for them to draw on the rich traditions of support we have here in Tucson. Additionally we were surprised that we never met anyone employed by Tu Nidito who had lost a child themselves.
Tu Nidito is one of a number of excellent groups in town. I would recommend checking them all out (for example, Compassionate Friends, Casa de Luz, TMC, KidsAid) and seeing which one fits your family.
I volunteered at Tu Nidito for a little more than a year before I left for graduate school. I have only fond memories of this place and all the lovely people I met and worked alongside. Child grief is very unique and Tu Nidito's philosophy enables each child to process their feelings in ways that are genuine and fitting to their development, situation and needs. Volunteering is at the heart of their programs, and I always felt respected, valued and like my input and presence made a difference. Moreover, I felt like my time there had a positive impact on my character more so than other volunteer work I have done with other agencies. I always left feeling absolutely refreshed after my interactions with the children and appreciative for the kindness of Tu Nidito's leaders. It was a pleasure to play a role in the grief work of these families and hope one day to return to volunteering there once I have time.
Review from Guidestar