Rev. Kimberly Bress, M.Div.

Dedicated Buddhist and Interfaith chaplain with 16 years of experience in Zen Buddhism and Meditation, offering compassionate support to individuals navigating trauma and anxiety. Committed to advancing economic and social justice through meditation, community engagement, and spiritual counseling. At Ascend Hospice, I specialize in grief counseling, pre-bereavement support, and legacy work, collaborating with the interdisciplinary team and local clergy to guide diverse populations through the end-of-life journey with empathy and facilitate meaning-making processes. Skilled in crisis intervention, spiritual assessment, and holistic care. Eager to integrate spiritual guidance with therapeutic techniques as a private therapist and contribute to the LSU School of Social Work's mission of service and advocacy.

• 2021 BU Build Lab New Venture Competition Second Place Winner on behalf of Turn In. Reach Out.
• 2021 Northeastern University Neighbors Uplifting Neighbors Award on behalf of Turn In. Reach Out.
• 2019-2020 Boston Bridges Fellow
• 2019 Inclusion Catalyst Grant recipient on behalf of the Boston University Interfaith Club.
• 2019 BU Spring Board funding recipient.

Hospice Chaplain, 08/2022 to Current
Ascend Hospice – North Wales, PA

• Assess and address spiritual needs, develop care plans, and collaborate with local clergy.
• Provide counseling, crisis intervention, funeral planning assistance, and bereavement support.
• Ensure complete documentation, meet continuing education requirements, and promote agency policies.

Spiritual Care Associate, 05/2022 to 08/2023
Main Line Health – Wynnewood, PA

• Offered emotional and spiritual support to patients, families, and staff navigating illness, death, trauma, and grief.
• Coordinated with outside clergy to meet specialized spiritual needs.
• Provided weekend on-call spiritual care coverage.

Program Coordinator, 05/2021 to 09/2021
Interfaith Youth Core – Boston, MA

• Managed the COVID-19 Faith in the Vaccine Student Ambassador Program.
• Supervised 32 diverse student ambassadors in community-based projects.
• Facilitated weekly meditations for student and staff well-being.

Dignity Project Assistant Director, 09/2020 to 08/2021
Hebrew College Miller Center – Newton, MA

• Cultivated relationships with interfaith, non-profit, and religious organizations.
• Led training and development initiatives for interfaith youth and mentors.
• Managed resources, budgets, events, curriculum development, and digital media.