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Joseph T. Quinlan Foundation receives donation from Biggs Kids Foundation

| 31 Jul 2012 | 07:59
    Diana Sebzda, Joseph T Quinlan Bereavement Director explains to Steve Bieganousky of Biggs Kids Foundation the use of þÄúsandþÄù therapy and its value in helping to understand the grieving child as they play and often release hidden emotions. The Bereavement center, located at 61 Spring St, Newton holds childrenþÄôs grief art programs for any child who is suffering grief through the death of a loved one.
    Diana Sebzda, Joseph T Quinlan Bereavement Director explains to Steve Bieganousky of Biggs Kids Foundation the use of þÄúsandþÄù therapy and its value in helping to understand the grieving child as they play and often release hidden emotions. The Bereavement center, located at 61 Spring St, Newton holds childrenþÄôs grief art programs for any child who is suffering grief through the death of a loved one.

NEWTON, N.J. — Steve Bieganousky of Sparta, N.J., who lost his only child, is no stranger to the pain of grief. His son Steven died suddenly in a car accident at the age of 21 on Easter Sunday, March 27, 2005. “A fun-loving and spirited individual, he always enjoyed making people laugh.”

Young Steven strongly believed in standing up for those who could not stand up for themselves, particularly children. To continue Steven’s devotion to helping children, the family founded The Steven P. Bieganousky Foundation for Children, also known as BIGGS’ Kids. The foundation is dedicated to raising funds to benefit less fortunate children and monies are distributed to organizations providing physical, emotional, educational, and spiritual needs of suffering children.

Upon hearing of the work the Joseph T Quinlan Bereavement Center, especially the children’s art program, Steve wanted to learn more. “I found my professional niche in the world of graphic design and have enjoyed much success, so the children’s grief art program did get my attention.”

During Steve’s tour of the center, Diana pointed out how parents have expressed their grief over the loss of a child. Hanging on one of the walls was artwork of a rose, on another a poem. Both of these pieces represented two different avenues the grieving parent acquired to demonstrate their love for their lost child. “Grief and tragedy changes people, and it all depends what you do with it.” Steve pointed out. “I can see now how art has a place in the world of grief.”

Bigg’s Kids Foundation raises funds with its annual golf outing to be held this year on Aug. 6 at the Lake Mohawk Golf Club in Sparta; 973-729-9200. All are welcome to play and either bring a foursome or can make up teams, so singles are welcome. For more information or to register for the golf outing visit Biggs’ Kids Facebook page or contact The Steven P. Bieganousky Foundation for Children, Inc. 1A Main Street, Suite 2, Sparta, NJ 07871 , 972-222-5948. www.spbfoundation.org

“In the future I would like to expand the foundation and include various events during the year to raise funds to help causes such as the Bereavement Center.” Steve noted. The foundation has also supported Ginny’s House and Project Self Sufficiency in Sussex County.

The Joseph T Quinlan Bereavement Center offers individual grief counseling and monthly support groups in Newton and Hackettstown and Milford and Lord’s Valley, PA. To learn more about the Center visit www.KarenAnnQuinlanHospice.org or call 800-882-1117; the Bereavement Center in Newton 973-940-0413; Hackettstown 908-852-8730 or the Milford Hospice, PA 570-296-3591.