The first point of contact is usually a discussion with a new widow, or a widow who is new to the organization. Traditionally, this point of contact has been with Karyl McKendry, Paisley Project’s founder. Early on, Karyl learned that new widows, and sometimes more long-term widows, are often in an emotionally fragile state. They are surrounded by well-meaning people who want to help and often don’t know how. She decided she needed professional training.

Karyl earned her professional credential in coaching, withFour Streams School of Coaching, associated with theInternational Coaching Federation (ICF). She chose to train with Four Streams because of its focus on the dignity of every human being. Her training also draws from multiple disciplines to create a superior coaching experience: neuroscience, positive psychology, and the basics of life coaching. I subscribe to theICF Code of Ethics.  This training has proven to be essential in providing safe and effective connections with new widows.