Madison’s Bar Method ‘Impact Day’ Helps Local Grieving Families

Melissa Parrish Press

via TAP into Madison

MADISON, NJ – On March 8, the Bar Method of Madison held an event to benefit Good Grief, a local organization whose mission is to help children and families cope after the loss of an immediate family member. The event, which was called Impact Day, invited 200 clients to take a class and make a donation, which was matched by Bar Method owner Gina Striffler, a Madison resident. There was also a coordinating kid-friendly trunk show, with Madison vendor Sugar Rush participating and donating a percentage of their on-site proceeds to Good Grief. Additionally, Tons of Toys also of Madison participated virtually, and shoppers who mentioned “Good Grief” at Tons of Toys received a percentage off their purchases.

Impact Day was part of “March Madisoness,” a program Striffler and her team developed to challenge clients to get the most out of their membership, connect to their community and reach their full fitness potential. Clients attending class on this first Impact Day were asked to wear blue and received points toward their goal. Nearly $2,000 was raised for Good Grief.

“Our Impact Days focus on bringing the outside in, providing clients with several ways to be the good they wish to see in their community,” said Striffler. “The March Madisoness challenge is not just about strengthening the body but also expanding and enlightening the mind.”

On hand were two women affiliated with Good Grief: Karen Kelly, a volunteer from Chatham and Maryann Reilly from Morristown, a direct beneficiary of the organization after her husband passed away in 2008. Both spoke at the 9:45a.m. class about the importance of community and how feeling supported can have a positive impact on the grieving process.

“There is a tremendous value in being together with others and having a shared experience that brings families who are hurting out of isolation and into their communities,” said Reilly. “Grief is natural, and it’s normal, and Good Grief helps kids and families realize that they’re not alone and that they are going to be ok.”

They also shared many of the volunteer opportunities available at Good Grief, which is located in Morristown.

“We have many events throughout the year, including a 5K and a golf outing, and we are always looking for volunteers to help us run those events,” said Kelly. “It’s a great cause if you are looking to get more involved in community service.”

Other Impact Days the Bar Method has planned this spring will benefit Dress for Success for women, “Paint the Town Yellow” to raise awareness of depression, and St. Hubert’s Animal Shelter.

“I was so touched by the purpose of the Good Grief organization and the impact it has on countless children who have lost a parent,” said Madison resident and Bar Method client Jennifer Blunda. “My class today taught by Gina was both physically challenging and emotionally inspiring.”

For information on Good Grief, visit https://goodgrief0538.wpengine.com. For information on classes and events taking place at the Bar Method, visit http://madison.barmethod.com/ or call the studio at 973-410-0500.