Workshops
Do – It – Yourself
Family – Directed Funeral
Friday, February 25, 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Saturday, February 26, 9 am – 4:30 pm
Full workshop cost includes lunch and one copy of My Final Wishes.
Reserve through Driftless Folk School website or at registrar@driftlessfolkschool.org
Until the latter part of the 19th century, most people were born and died in their own homes. When they were born, their family cared for them; when they died, their family cared for them. Dying, like birthing, was integrated into living. Caring for those who had died was not only the last act of love, it was the first step toward healing. This workshop will give you information and hands-on practice to prepare you to care for your family member after death at home, and to carry out a home or family-directed funeral with or without the services of a funeral director.
Friday: 6:30 pm (open to the public) Screening of In The Parlor. Discussion to follow.
Friday evening movie and discussion is part of the workshop, but is also open to the public.
Saturday: 9:00 am – 4:30 pm
Saturday Workshop Topics covered:
• Advance planning
• Meeting WI legal requirements and acquiring the necessary paperwork
• Care of the Body, Creating Sacred Space and Home Vigils
• Family Direct Cremation and Green Burial Options
***Advance registration for Saturday is required as space is limited. ***
The workshop and film screening will be held in Viroqua
Register online through the Driftless Folk School site : Here
Driftless Folk School is also offering the following workshop
Sew A Shroud
If you want to extend your weekend of learning, you can sign up to take a full day class the following day (Sunday) in which you will learn to sew a burial shroud. Description and link to that offering is below:
Before the spread of industrial funeral practices in the 19th century, clothing loved ones in a simple but beautiful burial shroud was the traditional way of preparing them for their journey after death.
As more and more people reclaim meaningful, environmentally sustainable practices for after-death, the need for quality biodegradable DIY funeral materials is also on the rise. In this class, participants will sew a burial shroud out of 100% natural cotton and hemp materials. The shroud can be used as part of your own personal after death planning, made for a family member or loved one, or donated to the local Threshold Care Circle for local use after the class.
This class is also offered on a sliding scale.
