Community First
Connection is the heart of healing from loneliness. Everything we do is designed to bring people gently together.
About us
Built from lived experience, for everyone navigating loss
DZ | LZ Grief Support Center began with one person's grief — and the determination to make sure no one else faces that loneliness alone.
The founder's journey
Why DZ | LZ exists
Dagmar lost her father at the age of 23. The first year carried a depth of loneliness and depression that's hard to put into words — the kind of silence that makes ordinary days feel impossible.
Out of that experience came a clear purpose: to bridge the gap between grief and loneliness on one side, and learning how to function again on the other. With a degree in macro social work and years of experience supporting international college students and university student parents, she understood both the human weight of loss and how communities can be designed to hold people through it.
DZ | LZ is the place she wished had existed in that first year — a warm, judgment-free community where grief is met with connection, gentle activity, and genuine understanding.
“I lost my father at 23. The first year was the loneliest of my life. I built DZ | LZ to be the place I wished existed then.”
— Dagmar, Founder
Founder Story Video — Coming Soon
Dagmar will soon share the personal story behind DZ | LZ and why this center was created.
DZ | LZ
What our name means
The story behind DZ | LZ
DZ | LZ stands for Dagmar Zdrubecka and Ludek Zdrubecky — the initials of our founder and her father. The name keeps their bond at the heart of the center and reflects the personal story behind this community.
Our Mission
To turn the loneliness of grief into the comfort of community
We exist to support individuals experiencing grief by focusing on mental well-being and human connection. Through planned activities inside and outside the center, we help people find their footing again — at their own pace, surrounded by others who truly understand.
A Safe Space
No pressure, no judgment, no timeline. You decide how much to share and when. Your pace is the right pace.
Warm & Human
We lead with empathy, not clinical distance. Real people, real warmth, real understanding of what loss feels like.
Hopeful Forward
We honor the weight of grief while gently helping you reconnect with daily life, purpose, and small joys.
Open to all
Every belief. Every path. All welcome.
DZ | LZ is not built around any single faith or worldview. Grief carries us through questions of meaning that don’t always have shared answers. Whatever you hold to — a religion, a philosophy, a stillness — you belong here.
What we ask is respect for the beliefs sitting next to you. This is a space to speak freely, to listen carefully, and to let others do the same.
The people behind it
Meet the team
A small, dedicated team — growing alongside our community.
Dagmar Zdrubecka
Founder & Community Director
A macro social worker who turned personal loss into a mission: to bridge the gap between grief, loneliness, and learning how to function again.
Read Our StoryPartner Therapist Network
Workshops & Talks — Coming Soon
A growing network of licensed therapists and trusted partners who lead educational sessions for our community.
Partner With UsVolunteer & Events Coordinator
Events & Volunteers — Coming Soon
Coordinating the daily rhythm of gatherings, volunteers, and community partnerships that keep the center warm.
Volunteer With UsA Safe Space for Adults Navigating Loss
Come exactly as you are
There is no “right way” to grieve and no timeline you need to meet. Whether your loss was last week or twenty years ago, whether you want to talk or simply sit quietly among others, you are welcome here. Our community is built for adults 18 and older, with warmth, privacy, and zero pressure at its core.
No judgment
Share as much or as little as you like. Your pace is the right pace.
Real connection
Surround yourself with people who understand what loss feels like.
Gentle forward steps
Reconnect with routine, joy, and purpose — one small moment at a time.
Future Vision
Where we're headed
We're just getting started. Here's a glimpse of how the community will grow to support more people, in more ways.
Weekend Programming
Coming soonExpanding beyond weekdays so support is available when you need it most.
Online Therapy
Coming soonA future online therapy offering to reach members wherever they are.
Financial Assistance
Coming soonResources and guidance to ease the financial weight that loss can bring.
Member Stories
Coming soonA growing library of community voices and shared reflections.
Please note: DZ | LZ Grief Support Center provides community-based support and educational resources. It is not a substitute for emergency services, medical care, or licensed mental health treatment. If you are in immediate danger or crisis, please contact local emergency services.
Walk this path with us
Join the community to become part of a circle that understands. You don't have to carry it alone.