Kimberli Gross is the compassionate force and visionary behind Celebrate Still, Inc., a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to guiding individuals through the journey of rediscovering a new normal after the profound experience of loss. As the founder, Kimberli is deeply committed to normalizing grief, promoting the importance of therapy, and fostering a supportive community for those navigating challenging times.
Educationally empowered, Kimberli earned her Bachelor’s degree in Organizational Management, providing her with a solid foundation for creating and sustaining meaningful initiatives. Building on this, she pursued a Master’s degree from Liberty University in Human Services Counseling, specializing in Crisis, Trauma, and Grief.
However, Kimberli’s commitment to her cause goes beyond academia. Her personal journey through grief began with the loss of her mother in 2004. This profound experience ignited a passion within her to help others navigate grief in healthy and constructive ways. Kimberli’s goal is not just to provide assistance but to embody the very sense of community that was absent in her own moment of need.
In addition to her professional and philanthropic endeavors, Kimberli is the proud mother of three sons-Darnell Jr., Derek, and Darien. As a native of Baltimore, Maryland, she carries with her a deep sense of community and understanding of the diverse challenges individuals may face.
Adding to her remarkable story, Kimberli is also an Air Force veteran who served during the 9/11 attacks. Her military service further shapes her empathetic approach, providing a unique perspective on resilience and the human spirit. Kimberli Gross stands as an empathetic guide, helping others weave through the intricacies of loss and offering a beacon of hope for those seeking a path to a new normal.
What’s the mission statement for your nonprofit?
At Celebrate Still, Inc., our mission is to help individuals find a new normal after experiencing loss. We are committed to normalizing grief, removing the stigma around therapy, and building a supportive community for those navigating through challenging times.
How do you maintain a work-life balance?
I am learning this is a constantly evolving lesson. So I practice these three key things: Communication. Sacrifice. Rest. and then I repeat.
What advice do you have for someone who is struggling to balance honoring their grief while still moving forward with daily life?
I would advise them to give themselves grace and be gentle with themselves. Grief is a journey full of unpredictable twists and turns, and it’s important to navigate it with compassion and patience. Allow yourself to feel your emotions without judgment and understand that it’s okay to have both good and bad days.
Recognize that healing is not linear, and it’s normal to experience a wide range of emotions. Be patient with yourself as you move through these feelings and remember that it’s perfectly fine to take things one day at a time. Self-compassion is key—treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you would offer a friend in a similar situation.
Take small steps towards re-engaging with daily life, setting manageable goals, and allowing yourself to rest when needed. Surround yourself with supportive people who understand your journey, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you need it. By giving yourself the grace to grieve and heal at your own pace, you can find a balance that allows you to honor your grief while still moving forward.
Stay Connected with Kimberli Gross on Instagram, here.
Photo Credit: Aisha Butler Photography
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