Funeral Homes Position Themselves as Community Partners

More often than not, funeral homes are regarded as dark and scary places. They are seen as the last stop on the cycle of life before being put into the ground. But many funeral directors across the country are trying to change that perspective by presenting the funeral home as a helping member of the community.

A funeral home is so much more than a place assisting families dealing with the death of a loved one. Many rest homes offer community involvement in more than just end-of-life-care. Wade Jackson of Shurden Jackson funeral home, Okmulgee, Oklahoma says that on free days he will meet with the city mayor and other city officials about helping to integrate the business into the community.

“Being a good neighbor means understanding what is happening in the community. While dealing with families in their time of need, our establishment is also important to the community during the grieving process. People look to the funeral home for guidance and comfort said Jackson. Even people not associated with the grieving family see the establishment as a place of people coming together.”

Other rest homes are finding creative ways to connect. Calfee Funeral Home in Summerville, West Virginia participates in what is called “Sweaters for Veterans,” a program that helps provide new or gently used sweaters and gloves to the men and women who have bravely served our country. Directory Dan Calfee says “We collect the sweaters, take them to the VA Hospital and they will distribute them to veterans in the area.”

When tragedies rattle entire communities, funeral homes will often get involved with organizing memorials or setting up donations. After a Michigan father and daughter died in a house fire, a local funeral home held a memorial service open to the entire town. A donation fund was set up for the family so they could replace their home and help rebuild their lives.

"We don't know where we would be right now without the kindness and generosity our community has shown us. The well wishes and support have been truly overwhelming. We want to thank our community for their concern,” said one surviving family member.

The main goal in becoming a community partner is making the extra effort and meeting the challenges behind the scenes that are not seen by the community. It’s about providing an environment where people can come gather can grieve together. This strengthens a community. It brings about a sense of unity.

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