Heart of the Cumberland’s mission is to provide hope and healing for the grieving through Christ-centered peer support.
Founded by Jill Horner, Heart of the Cumberland opened its doors on February 24, 2009, with one simple vision: that no one should have to walk through grief alone.
Our groups offer a compassionate, understanding space where people of all ages can share their stories, process their emotions, and begin to find peace. Grief matters—it deserves to be acknowledged, expressed, and supported.
Our Mission
Why It Matters
Unresolved grief can quietly shape a person’s life—clouding perspective, deepening depression, and fueling destructive behaviors.
When the funeral is over and the world moves on, many feel alone in their pain. Studies show that 83% of individuals struggling with substance use report increased consumption after losing a significant person, and exposure to stressful life events dramatically increases the risk of addiction.
Heart of the Cumberland offers a different path—one where no one has to face grief alone. Seeking support after loss should feel as natural as visiting a doctor when you’re hurting, because grief is real pain. Left unaddressed, that pain can affect both the mind and body. Here, you’ll find a safe place to talk about your loved one, process the hurt, and begin to rediscover hope and healing. Grief doesn’t have an expiration date—but healing begins when we’re not alone. Here, individuals can talk about their loved one, confront the pain, and discover that healing is possible.
Source: Masferrer & Caparrós, 2018, IntechOpen
“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” – Matthew 5:4How We Help
Our trained facilitators help create an atmosphere where it’s safe to be honest, to grieve openly, and to begin healing. In our groups, you have permission to feel, remember, and move forward.
Through our programs, group members:
Identify and share their feelings in a safe environment.
Realize that they are not alone.
Communicate and process the emotions surrounding their loss.
Build friendships with people who truly understand.
Find hope and healing through their grief.
Learn to laugh and live again.
Community Peer Support Groups
For individuals and families navigating the death of a loved one, our Christ-centered community groups offer understanding and encouragement in a safe, faith-based setting.
We currently offer nine focus groups designed for different types of loss:
Brave Moms, Caregivers, Children, Men, Pregnancy & Infant Loss, Survivors of Suicide Loss, Teens, Widows, and Women.
Groups meet weekly for 6–11 weeks in small, intimate settings—usually under 10 participants—fostering trust, reflection, and connection.
Our trained facilitators help create an atmosphere where it’s safe to be honest, to grieve openly, and to begin healing. In our groups, you have permission to feel, remember, and find hope.
School-Based BEST Groups
In partnership with the Putnam County School System, our BEST Groups (Be Each Other’s Support Team) program helps students in grades 2–12 who are experiencing loss—whether from death, divorce, abandonment, incarceration, or other difficult life changes.
BEST Groups are faith-neutral, meet weekly during the school day, and are led by trained school staff alongside volunteer co-facilitators from Heart of the Cumberland. These groups give children the tools and support they need to heal, build resilience, and thrive.
Special Events & Support Opportunities
Throughout the year, we host programs that nurture community and renewal, including:
Grief Art Expression Workshops
Community Candlelight Memorial Service
Seasonal Devotional Groups
Retreats, Luncheons, and other Social Gatherings
Each event offers participants space to reflect, honor their loved ones, and connect with others who understand.
Our Impact
Since opening in 2009, Heart of the Cumberland has come alongside families, students, and adults throughout the Upper Cumberland region, helping them find comfort, understanding, and hope after loss.
2025 Impact Highlights
492 students served in 2025 through BEST Groups in Putnam County Schools.
2000+ volunteer hours recorded for Community Groups and BEST Groups
82% of group members report increased hope, healthier decisions, and emotional expression. Results based on 193 post-program surveys from 2020 to 2024.
98.8% would recommend Heart of the Cumberland’s support groups to others.
36% of group members continue beyond their first 11-week season, returning for one or more additional seasons of support.
141% increase in group members from 2020 to 2025, driven by the expansion of focus groups.