Tucson Volunteer Offers Support and Hope to Children Facing Grief

One evening in 2007, Nelson Daou heard sounds drifting over the wall of his home. On the other side, children at Tu Nidito were playing outside, gathering together night after night in a space created just for them. Curious and inspired by what he heard, Nelson thought to himself, I could be a part of that and give back to my community.

Motivated by that simple realization, Nelson applied to become a volunteer at Tu Nidito. What began as a desire to help soon grew into a long-term commitment. He started facilitating multiple support group nights, learning alongside families and fellow facilitators, the power of simply showing up and being present.

Now, in 2026, Nelson co-facilitates the Wednesday Group 1 teen group. His connection to the teens is deeply personal. His father died after a three-year cancer battle, and Nelson knows firsthand what it feels like without a parent present for life’s milestones. That lived experience allows him to relate to the teens with authenticity and empathy.

“I feel that I can help the teens along and help them feel like they aren’t the only ones who are going through it,” said Daou. “Someone who has an idea of what they’re feeling.”

The Best of Tucson Community

Outside of Tu Nidito, Nelson is a mathematician who often rides his bike to work. He is a husband and father of two middle schoolers and values time spent with his family. Together, they enjoy community traditions such as Winterhaven, ZooLights, and holiday gatherings—moments that highlight the importance of connection and shared experiences.

Through his years of volunteering, Nelson has seen the impact of Tu Nidito’s support groups again and again. He shared that while we can’t ease the pain of grief, having a safe space where individuals feel heard, seen, and supported is vital to the healing journey. Those small moments of connection can make a lasting difference.

Changing Lives as a Tu Nidito Volunteer

When asked what advice he would offer to new facilitators, Nelson keeps it simple: listen. He emphasizes that silence is not something to fear and that children should never be pressured to share before they are ready. Time, patience, and presence, he believes, are the most meaningful tools.

Nelson describes Tu Nidito as a special place where the community comes together to support every family that walks through its doors.

“I get as much out of it as families do,” said Daou. “My greatest advice for new facilitators is to just be there and listen. There are no magic words—just sit beside someone.”

 

The Immeasurable Impact of a Volunteer

For Nelson, volunteering has become much more than giving back— it’s a meaningful way to strengthen the Tucson community and ensure that no child or family has to face grief alone. His journey from neighbor to facilitator is a reminder that ordinary people can make an extraordinary difference simply by showing up with compassion, patience, and an open heart.

Every Tu Nidito volunteer helps create a space where hope, healing, and connection can grow. Whether leading a support group, assisting at special events, or lending a helping hand behind the scenes, volunteers play an essential role in supporting children and families through some of life’s most difficult moments. Nelson’s story is one example of how giving your time can have a lasting impact—not only on those you serve, but on your own life as well.

If you’re looking for a meaningful way to give back, volunteering with Tu Nidito is an opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of Tucson families while becoming part of a compassionate community dedicated to hope, healing, and connection.