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How the Watch Love Grow Movement Transforms Grief into Community Love

Update Creating a Culture of Love and RemembranceIn a world often clouded by grief, Ashley Manning envisioned a beacon of light with her initiative, Pretty Things by AE Manning. Born out of the isolation of the pandemic, what started as a hobby turned into a powerful community rallying effort to support widows on very emotional days. In 2021, Manning reached out to her son’s preschool teacher, who had recently lost her husband. This heartfelt gesture inspired her to craft a surprise campaign on Valentine’s Day, igniting a chain reaction of love that continues to touch lives.“We go to so many luncheons and galas where we feel compelled to help, but there’s nothing for us to give other than money,” Manning reflects. This frustration led to the birth of the Valentine’s Day Widow Outreach, where volunteers united to deliver heartfelt flower arrangements curated specifically for widows who may feel isolated during festivities.A Growing Movement to Support Grieving FamiliesFast forward to 2025, and Manning's outreach expanded beyond Valentine's Day. She introduced A Mother’s Love Outreach, specifically designed for mothers who have lost children. Recognizing that both Mother’s Day and Valentine’s Day can be especially painful for bereaved individuals, Manning shifted her focus to provide support during these difficult times.With 120 volunteer flower arrangers joining hands to create 300 arrangements, the inaugural event in May 2025 provided a touch of love to grieving mothers. The emotional responses to these thoughtful gestures reveal how such sincerity makes all the difference. As Scottie Thompson, who lost her daughter, recalls receiving one of the arrangements, she acknowledges, “Every day is hard, but the thoughtfulness of your community means everything.”Beyond Charlotte: The Ripple Effect of KindnessThe concept behind Watch Love Grow—a nonprofit encompassing both outreach projects—has inspired similar initiatives across the country. Manning has shared her blueprint with volunteers in cities like Buffalo and Nashville, empowering them to replicate the outreach model. In a testimonial to the power of community love, Manning illustrates how this idea blossomed, despite initial fears about its viability. “I prayed 16 times a day that we were doing the right thing,” she admits. Ultimately, instead of faltering, the outreach flourished.Communities in different regions are now eagerly participating in similar initiatives, proving that when love is shared, it multiplies. Whether in Charlotte or Pittsburgh, the message remains consistent: no one needs to feel forgotten during their hardest times.Embracing Vulnerability for ConnectionA recurring sentiment from those benefiting from these acts of kindness is the excitement at being acknowledged. Manning captured this essence perfectly when she noted, “They are afraid that people are going to forget that their children were here.” Emphasizing the importance of remembering, she highlights the emotional connections that flourish with simple gestures.Research suggests that social connections can significantly affect emotional well-being, especially for individuals facing grief. Activities that foster community engagement demonstrate to grieving individuals that they are not alone on their journey. As Kerri Bachner, a widow herself, states about participating in the initiative, “It’s so touching and so heartwarming.” Beyond the floral arrangements, these connections provide a lifeline amidst overwhelming sadness.Call to Action: Join the MovementAs the success of Manning’s initiatives shows, even small acts of kindness can create expansive ripples of impact. If you want to stand in solidarity with grieving families, consider donating to or volunteering for similar outreach projects in your community. Every can bring a touch of joy to someone's life by simply reminding them they are loved. Let’s work together to ensure no one feels forgotten by showing love, support, and community.