Town Square University Parkway Introduces Monarch Garden Initiative and a New Grief & Loss Support Group
Town Square University Parkway continues its commitment to supporting caregivers, families, and individuals navigating cognitive change by launching two meaningful initiatives designed to bring the community together through connection, healing, and hope.
This month, Town Square will introduce a Monarch Butterfly Garden addition, a living symbol of transformation and resilience. What began as one caregiver’s vision has grown into a beautiful community project that will allow members, families, and guests to witness the powerful transformation of monarch butterflies as they emerge and take flight in the Town Square garden.
The garden itself carries a meaningful story. After the center experienced a robbery that impacted the outdoor space, generous donors from the community stepped forward to help restore the garden to the peaceful environment it is today. The addition of monarch butterflies now builds on that restoration, offering a powerful visual reminder of growth, healing, and renewal.
“Monarch butterflies symbolize transformation, hope, and endurance,” said Skyler Betts of Town Square University Parkway. “For many of the families we serve, the journey through cognitive decline and caregiving can feel overwhelming and unpredictable. This garden will provide a quiet place to reflect, connect, and experience the beauty of transformation firsthand.”
Members of Town Square will have the opportunity to observe and experience the butterfly lifecycle within the garden, culminating in special butterfly release moments that celebrate life, memory, and the power of community.
In addition to the garden initiative, Town Square University Parkway is also expanding its caregiver resources with the launch of a Grief & Loss Support Group starting May 14th, recognizing that grief can occur at many stages of the disease process and often continues after the loss of a loved one.
The support group will meet on the second Thursday of each month from 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM at Town Square University Parkway, providing a safe and compassionate space for caregivers and community members to share experiences, find encouragement, and connect with others who understand the journey.
“Grief can begin long before a loss occurs,” Betts added. “Our goal is to ensure caregivers know they are not alone and that support exists at every stage of the journey.”
Both initiatives reflect Town Square’s mission to create proactive resources for families facing cognitive decline. By encouraging education, community connection, and early planning, the center helps families find strength and support while maintaining dignity and meaningful engagement for their loved ones.
Community members, caregivers, and referral partners are invited to experience the Monarch Garden and participate in the new support group as part of Town Square’s ongoing efforts to build a compassionate network of support throughout Manatee and Sarasota counties.