Volunteer Spotlight

The Cove would like to spotlight an incredible volunteer and former Cove Kid, Paige Perrelli!

Paige is currently a rising sophomore at Boston College double majoring in Economics and psychology. She first experienced The Cove at age 11 after losing her father to cancer when she joined the family program. She returned to volunteer with the Family Program when she was in High School. Today, she continues to stay involved by helping with Cove events and supporting the organization that has meant so much to her.

In her own words, Paige shares how The Cove has deeply supported her healing journey:

“The Cove had such a profound impact on my life when I was younger that I always hoped I would be able to give back one day. After experiencing firsthand how meaningful it was to have a safe space to share my feelings and connect with others who understood grief, I wanted to help provide that same support to children and teens facing similar challenges. Volunteering felt like a way to honor everything The Cove gave me and to be there for others as they navigate their own journeys.

The most meaningful part of volunteering has been building relationships with the children and teens who come to The Cove and watching them become more comfortable expressing themselves over time. Seeing someone who may have been quiet or hesitant start to open up, laugh, and feel a sense of belonging is incredibly rewarding.

What I have enjoyed most about volunteering for The Cove is having conversations with grieving children and teens who understand what it is like to lose a parent at a young age. Leading the teen group and connecting with kids who lost their loved ones around the same age as I did has been especially meaningful because I can share my own experiences and remind them that they are not alone. I have also loved visiting local high schools to talk about The Cove as a resource and help students know there is a place they can turn to for support.

The Cove has played a significant role in shaping who I am today and how I see the world. It has taught me how to carry empathy beyond The Cove. To listen more closely, extend grace more freely, and remember that everyone is navigating experiences we may never fully understand. Those lessons continue to guide the way I connect with others and approach new opportunities and relationships.”

We are so grateful to have Paige as part of our Cove family!

Thank you, Paige, for sharing your experiences and talents with The Cove and for providing hope and healing to grieving children!