Past Events

At the 2025 Bucktown Arts Fest, we led a magical time of story and artmaking. The session invited kids and adults to explore big emotions—especially grief—through storytelling and hands-on creativity. Featuring our book Moving In Forever and our favorite book pairing In My Heart, participants reflected on how emotions blend and shift, just like the no-mess tie-dye tapestries they created. Adults joined in, using art to express feelings often hard to put into words. The event fostered heartfelt conversations, especially with our very own Ms. Rebecca, author of Moving In Forever, and became a space for care, connection, and community. It highlighted that emotional growth and creativity are for all ages, not just children.

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Over two days, middle school students immersed themselves in the art of graphic novels. Guided by our founder and children’s author, Rebecca Wu, campers engaged with themes of coming of age, resilience, and personal triumph, with freedom to create unique layouts and stories. The students explored how visuals and text can work together to deliver emotional depth, action, humor, and hope. Collaboration and feedback enriched the process, empowering participants to use both text and visuals for honest, expressive narratives that fostered agency and self-reflection.

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This two-day workshop welcomed 3rd–5th graders into the world of graphic novels, blending visual storytelling with creative writing. Led by our founder and children’s author, Rebecca Wu, students learned about character development, plots, visuals, teamwork, and the publishing process. Campers created zines and comics, developing their unique voices through drawing and writing. Highlights included team-based creative roles, lessons on pacing, and a final showcase of books. The experience empowered campers to express themselves and become confident young storytellers.

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We were honored to lead the Walking Alongside Children & Families in Hospice training in Ann Arbor, where a compassionate group explored how to support children through hospice care. We discussed developmental grief responses, cultural contexts, and used creative modalities like art, storytelling, and symbolic play. Participants appreciated the accessible, therapeutic activities and found value in the arts-based approach. The day was filled with learning, connection, and reflection—deepening our commitment to compassionate, inclusive end-of-life care.

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This summer, we partnered with the Chicago Park District to host a graphic novel workshop for grades K–2 campers at Holstein Park Day Camp. Over two engaging days, 80+ campers learned about book-making from Author Ms. Rebecca, brainstormed creative story ideas, and wrote and illustrated their own graphic ‘zines. We were amazed by the creativity and thoughtfulness on display—stories about beloved pets and even a book about Atlantis, the Lost City! They proudly shared their creations, supporting one another. We were honored to help these young authors tell their stories.

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The Alley, Chicago’s legendary punk and alternative hub founded in 1976, celebrated its 49th anniversary with a massive block party. The event featured live music headlined by The Tragedies, a hearse car show, an alternative fashion runway, local artist showcases, and a marketplace of independent makers. Rooster & Hen Resources was also featured, presenting a vibrant art gallery and an engaging interactive art activity as part of the anniversary celebration.

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At the NACG Symposium, Rooster & Hen joined over 600 grief professionals in Kansas City to share resources and education, featuring “Moving In Forever” and other therapeutic books. Founder Rebecca Wu presented a session on children’s literature and creative expression, inspiring ‘zine-making. Rooster & Hen provided support journals and stickers, and it was rewarding to see participants use them for notetaking. We learned from seasoned organizations and are brainstorming ways to integrate new insights into our art and story-based work.

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The Umbrella Arts Festival celebrated Asian American history, culture, and art, using the umbrella as a symbol of the diverse Asian American diaspora—spanning over 40 Asian, South Asian, Southeast Asian, and Pacific Island countries. The festival highlighted the intersections of identities within these communities and featured music, dance, food, and visual arts. Rooster & Hen Resources hosted a yarn art-making section, encouraging participants to use art to share stories and express emotions creatively.

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YEA! Way To Go Young Artists!

We paused Family Art Club to support the 44th Annual YEA! (Young Evanston Artists) Festival in Evanston. It was an unforgettable day celebrating young artists and creative expression. From bold brushstrokes to storytelling, each piece told a unique story, creating a vibrant tapestry of inspiration. Thanks to Open Studio Project for hosting this joyful, inclusive event, and to the teachers, families, and artists for sharing their heart and talent with the community.

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Our very own Ms. Rebecca, wearing her children’s author hat, visited a first-grade Chicago classroom to lead a heartfelt storytime after a student attended his first funeral.

Together, they read Moving In Forever, pausing along the way to reflect, share, and connect. The children noticed details, expressed feelings, and asked thoughtful questions—conversations filled with empathy, curiosity, and care.

The children then created expressive art, drawing people or places they missed—not only lost loved ones, but also friends or distant family. Through storytelling and creativity, the group built community, gently supporting one another’s emotional experiences.

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We were grateful to attend and host a table at the recent district event, sharing our passion for addressing grief through art and storytelling. Connecting with social workers and program directors eager to integrate art into social-emotional learning was inspiring. We heard stories of children coping with loss, fear, and absenteeism. The event highlighted the importance of creative, community-based support, and we introduced tailored resources to those seeking meaningful tools for helping children process grief.

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