Sophia Center for Life Studies was founded in the 1990s when a group of passionate individuals gathered to study the depths of Spiritual Psychology. Within these meetings a yearning emerged to cultivate a local Waldorf school. The intention was to provide a holistic, imaginative, & artistically imbued educational experience. After several years of collective effort & meticulous planning it became clear that the Waldorf School would not materialize.

Around that time, Sandy LaGrega, a founding Board Member and enduring pillar of the organization, found the book "Alison's Gift" by Beth Knox. This encounter stirred a deep desire to reconnect to her heritage of Home Funerals. She began further embracing the concept of natural death care, speaking publicly on the topic, and supporting individuals and families through these sacred rites of passage. In 2008, at New Garden Friend’s Meeting, Crossing Care, the Natural Death Care programming of SCLS, was formed. The following year, the group joined with others in North Carolina to offer "When Death Knocks," a symposium dedicated to the art of home funerals. Crossing Care remains today an educational initiative, deeply committed to natural death care & home funeral literacy & guidance.

2023- The role of SCLS President was passed to Sarah Lasswell, a pillar & paradigm shifter who lovingly tends to the hollers of West NC. Simultaneously, a new Board assumed stewardship of the organization and Sandy graciously agreed to stay on in support & love. This transitional period marks an opportunity for both reflection & renewal. Sophia Center's mission is expanding to encompass a broader spectrum of initiatives, particularly focusing on eco-spiritual pursuits & community care within the Southern Appalachian region.

At the core of our guiding principles remains a steadfast belief that wisdom is accessible to all through the Inner Teacher—a concept shared by Quakers & many other spiritual walks. This belief serves as a wellspring of inspiration for Sophia Center and Crossing Care, propelling us on our collective journey to honor the sacred & lean into the human experience with zeal, love, & intention.