Film Production Budget Update

We are pleased to announce that we have completed two versions of the film, both a feature-length and a short version of "Hiking through Grief".  However, as we progress, we encounter additional post-production costs, including the creation of digital files and Digital Cinema Packages (DCPs), which are essential for submissions. It is important to note that marketing and film submission fees can accumulate rapidly.

Our marketing and creative team is currently developing a companion guidebook for “Hiking through Grief” to enrich the film experience. This thoughtfully designed guide will provide audiences with tools, insights, and inspiration related to the film’s themes.

Printing and development costs for the booklet are included as part of this fundraising campaign, helping us bring this valuable resource to a wider community.

Our team is diligently pursuing grants and developing sponsorship opportunities. Additionally, we are excited to continue our Phase II fundraising campaign, titled “Hiking through Grief, Moving Forward!” Our goal is to raise an additional $20,000 through grants, donations, and sponsorships to support this endeavor. As of this date, 10/28/25, we are $16,500 away from our goal.

Film Submission to International Festivals

“Hiking through Grief” has received international recognition across several notable film festivals. Officially selected by the Chagrin Documentary Film Festival, Houston WorldFest International Film Festival, Cinehealth, and the Meliora International Film Festival, the documentary’s message is reaching diverse audiences worldwide.

The film was honored with a Gold Remi Award at WorldFest-Houston International Film Festival, showcasing its impact and excellence in storytelling.

On November 16, 2025, at 2:00 pm, “Hiking through Grief” will be featured at the Meliora International Film Festival, held in the Village, New York City. Recently, the film enjoyed two remarkable screenings at the Chagrin Documentary Film Festival in Chagrin Falls, Ohio, where nearly 220 audience members experienced the power of community, nature, and transformative grief at the Chagrin Valley Little Theatre.

These festival achievements highlight the profound impact of “Hiking through Grief.”

Film festival submission judges can watch our film on FilmFreeway @ https://filmfreeway.com/projects/3269270

Northeast Ohio Film and Local Ties

This film is a labor of passion, with everyone on the team working on spec—meaning they’re working without upfront payment, driven solely by their belief in the project’s powerful message. Sufficient funds through crowdfunding and sponsorship were raised to pay all core production staff, and they received payment by Christmas. We are so amazed by our dedicated team, who have contributed their time and talent.

Our local production crew includes: director Stephen Burks of Bainbridge, Cinematographer Henry Ortlip of Aurora, and Producer Engelina Koberna of Chagrin Falls. Rounding out the production crew are twins, Jake and Chad Ressler, sound and lighting engineers from Solon, Sarah Willgrube, assistant producer of Ohio City, and Production Manager Jamie Bullock Hurley of Kent. Lastly, our local marketing team member, Molly Bregar of Lakewood.

We are excited to announce that Julie Frayman, an avid hiker and Beachwood community supporter, has joined our team after seeing the compelling trailer.  Julie will assist in sponsorship development and community partnerships. 

Our Mission: Illuminating the Journey of Grief

This film is dedicated to educating, supporting, and offering hope to those grieving the loss of loved ones. In society, the unique needs of individuals in mourning are often underrecognized, with too little understanding and support provided. We believe that everyone deserves the chance to grieve within a compassionate, empathetic, and non-judgmental environment.

Our film underscores the power of community, where individuals can find resilience by sharing their experiences with others who understand the pain of loss. Inspired by Michelle Obama’s words, “Grief and resilience live together,” our project seeks to foster a sense of solidarity and strength for those navigating the often overwhelming journey of grief.

Development of a Grief Guide

A supporting grief counseling guide is being developed by Jennifer Stern, LISW of Transformative Grief, and Dr. Ellen Luebbers Weaver, co-founder of Power of Joy's Hiking through Loss, to accompany the film. 

Grief groups and mental health providers will be able to utilize the film with this supportive guide. A leader's guide, thought-provoking questions, coping methods, and local resources are included to assist those suffering from grief to heal, inspire, and perhaps find joy again. 

Ms. Stern specializes in working with individuals and families on grief, loss, bereavement, and difficult life transitions. Dr. Weaver is a retired pathologist who lost her husband in 2018.