Aging With Autonomy Expo

The Porchlight Program

Porchlight is an evening and overnight peer support initiative currently in its foundational phase through the establishment of the This Thing Called Grief Foundation. The program is designed to provide accessible, non-clinical support to individuals navigating grief, anticipatory loss, caregiving strain, and significant life transitions during hours when traditional services are often unavailable.

In addition to after-hours support, Porchlight includes a rural outreach component that aims to connect trained volunteers with elderly caregivers who are unable to leave their homes due to caregiving responsibilities. These visits will offer compassionate presence, grief-informed listening, and connection to resources when requested, helping reduce isolation and supporting caregivers experiencing ongoing and anticipatory loss.

Net proceeds from Aging with Autonomy, after event expenses are paid, along with any additional voluntary donations, will support the launch and infrastructure of the Porchlight initiative through the establishment of This Thing Called Grief Foundation.

Thames Valley Cremation Services Inc

Aging with Autonomy Expo

The Expo is a free, public, daytime event focused on education, awareness, support of aging adults, caregivers, families and professionals. This event brings together over 20 guest speakers & community vendors and door prizes.

When: May 31, 2026
Where: Western Research Park – 999 Collip Circle, London, ON
Time: Start at 09:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Hosted by This Thing Called Grief

For more information, please reach out to

Kim Vander Schelde - thisthingcalledgrief@gmail.com
Roberta MacNeil - care@tvcs.ca (Thames Valley Cremation Services Inc.)

Aging with Autonomy Expo
Aging with Autonomy Expo

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