Who We Are
Our Story
There is a real need to support families who are grieving the death of a child. Unfortunately, I know this all too well. I remember feeling so alone. No one knew what I was going through and it was so isolating. A couple years after Jordan died, in 2004, I started The Jordan Foundation to meet with families after their child passed. I knew what they were feeling. In listening to their stories I learned exactly what I needed to do; raise money for funeral expenses. Remember, this was before GoFundMe and Facebook. Families who couldn't afford to bury their child would have car washes to raise money for the funeral expenses. They would be on the news, in the sweltering desert heat. I just knew I could give them something better, easier, more compassionate. We had many fundraisers; community yard sales, dinners, booths at community events. We did whatever we could to get the word out. I'm proud to say in the few years we were active, we helped 13 families who needed love, support, and funds to properly bury their child. It's one of the last thing you can do as their parent.
Our Values
Our organization was built on a foundation of compassion, integrity, and accountability. We believe in treating everyone with love and dignity, and we are committed to using our new resources in the most effective and efficient way possible.
Our Team
Doing the work of The Jordan Rader Foundation in 2005 went international. Some friends of mine and I traveled to South Africa to work at an orphanage in the township of Khayelitsha. We ended up helping a sweet family bury a child in a very sacred ceremony. We found the mother huddled in a corner of her bedroom and literally picked her up off of the floor. We helped plan the funeral and pay for flowers and food for the guests. It was such a honor and blessing to be able to love on this family during her time of grief.
Our Support
To be honest, my healing journey hasn't been a clear or straight path. The five stages of grief are often a giant circle. Two steps forward, one step back. I'm no expert by any means. But I'm still here, going through the process. And for the families who have lost a child I still want to help. I know it's a wound that almost cuts too deep. Hearing someone say "I know how you feel" can be a lifeline that I am here to provide. While we will never be the same, with love and support, we can continue healing.
Our Impact
Fast forward to 2024. I am the owner of Labrador Lakehouse Inn & Wedding Venue. Honestly, my blessings have been overwhelming and humbling. Our mission now is to provide beautiful lodging accommodations, wellness services, nurturing food, and a peaceful environment for grieving families who deserve it. Every parent who has watched their child's casket lower into the ground needs this. I am donating the lodging at Labrador Lakehouse, and community donations will help pay for transportation logistics, incidentals, and wellness services during their stay.