How It Began
Our Story
What started with loss became a space for connection.
After losing their father to a drunk driver in 2019, siblings Raina and Cole McCarter experienced firsthand how isolating grief can feel as young people. At just 9 and 7 years old, they quickly realized there were few spaces where kids and teens could connect with others who truly understood the loss of a parent.
As Raina grew older, she began recognizing how many young people were quietly navigating grief without support, connection, or a sense of community, especially during milestones, holidays, and everyday moments that can feel especially difficult after loss.
In November 2025, she brought together a small group of teens who had also lost a parent. What began as a simple gathering quickly revealed the power of shared understanding and peer connection.
From that moment, BRAVE (Building Resilience After Very Difficult Experiences) was created. Founded by siblings Raina and Cole McCarter, BRAVE is a peer community centered around kids and teens who have lost a parent, creating spaces rooted in connection, understanding, resilience, and healing.
While many members are middle and high school students, BRAVE welcomes anyone seeking connection and community through shared experiences with grief.