There are nearly 1 million women in the United States who belong to a club that nobody wants to join.
They are widows, and most of them don’t like the word. It conjures up images of broken women wearing black, who are at the end of their own lives.
We don’t believe that’s true.
A widow can be a career woman in her twenties, a mother raising young children by herself, or a middle-aged woman with teenagers. They often manage an entire household, work full-time, or both.
They are grieving and trying to cope, facing a new life they neither wanted nor planned for. They are also often isolated, surrounded by loved ones who have no idea what it’s like, and no idea how to help. So, often they say or do nothing at all.
Our founder, Karyl McKendry,
lost her husband when she was 44 years old.
While raising four children, working full-time, and moving three times, she learned that as common as widowhood is… there are very few resources available for these women.
She was determined to address the isolation of loss and the confusion of supporters. She wanted to help widows not only to survive, but to thrive.
Karyl, along with a strong team, started Paisley Project in July 2014 to provide support and empowerment to young widows, while simultaneously educating and activating the widow’s own support network.
Our commitment is to ensure that no widow has to walk through grief without the vital support she needs:
Widows deserve guidance from someone who truly understands their experience. That’s why we offer one-on-one coaching with trained widows who have walked this road themselves to help widows rebuild their identity, set new goals, and take meaningful steps toward a life that holds purpose, joy, and connection.
Grief can feel isolating. Our private online community is a safe, supportive space exclusively for widows. Whether you want to ask a question, share a milestone, or simply connect with others who understand, our 24-hour group chat is always there — a place where you are seen, heard, and never alone.
Sometimes the most important healing happens when we step away from the noise of everyday life. Paisley Project hosts restorative retreats in beautiful, natural settings where widows can rest, reconnect, and find community. These retreats are designed to nurture both body and soul, offering peace, creativity, and the freedom to begin again.
Resources for Family and Friends
When someone you love is grieving, it can be hard to know what to do or say. Paisley Project offers practical, compassionate resources for family, friends, and supporters who want to show up well for the widows in their lives. We help you understand what grief looks like and how to offer meaningful, respectful support through every season
Some days you just need someone to remind you that you’re not alone. Our daily text support line offers widows a simple way to reach out and connect with a trained team member. Whether you’re having a hard moment or just want a friendly conversation, we are here — just a text away.
Healing often happens in community. Paisley Project organizes local gatherings and events throughout the year, especially around difficult times like holidays. These events give widows a chance to share and experience the power of being with others who understand both the pain and the hope of life after loss.
Community &
support, delivered.
Whether you are a widow or a supporter of a widow, we invite you to subscribe to the newsletter for updates and support.
IF YOU ARE A WIDOW—
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IF YOU ARE A SUPPORTER—
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