Hope Haven Marks First Anniversary and Honors Volunteers
Tuesday, March 17th, 2026
At a reception earlier this month at the Green-Meldrim House, Hope Haven, a social club and ministry of St. John’s Church (Episcopal), celebrated its first anniversary and honored volunteers who contributed more than 3,100 hours of service during the program’s first year.
Founded in February 2025, Hope Haven offers four hours of stimulating day programming twice each week for people experiencing memory challenges and other brain changes, including early-stage and mid-stage dementia. Music, art, brain games, gentle exercise and shared meals are enjoyed each day and are designed to promote happiness, meaningful social connections and independence.
The time volunteers devoted enabled 10 members to attend 92 program days and more than 300 visits to Hope Haven. Volunteers contributed in many ways, including spending the day alongside members, serving lunch or morning snacks, sharing music, leading art activities and helping create a welcoming environment where everyone feels included. New volunteers are always welcome and can choose roles that match their interests and availability.
“Getting to spend the day with our volunteers and our members is such a gift,” said Cathy Baxter, director of Hope Haven. “Their warmth and energy make our social club feel like a family. I am deeply grateful for the time and compassion they share so Hope Haven can be a place where people move beyond cognitive barriers and feel successful and part of a joyful community.”
Karen Wray, one of 10 volunteers recognized for more than 100 hours of service this year, reflected on the program’s significance.
“Serving at Hope Haven has been one of the most meaningful parts of my life this past year,” Wray said. “The friendships formed, the laughter shared and the joy we see in our members remind me every week why this ministry matters so deeply.”
The reception featured light refreshments and fellowship while honoring volunteers for their commitment to members and families navigating dementia and other cognitive changes.
Caregivers also shared written words of appreciation describing the impact volunteers have had on their families. One caregiver wrote:
“Words falter when attempting to express what it means to our family that our mother has found a sanctuary where she is truly seen, sheltered and cherished. To the volunteers of Hope Haven: your unwavering dedication is a testament to your character. You are quite simply earthly angels.”
Hope Haven will host its next volunteer training on April 24, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Cranmer Hall, 27 W. Charlton St. in Savannah. The training will feature dementia expert Robin Dill. Attendance does not commit participants to volunteer.
For general information about Hope Haven or to register for the volunteer training, visit savannahrespite.com or call 912-231-7310.
Founded in February 2025, Hope Haven offers four hours of stimulating day programming twice each week for people experiencing memory challenges and other brain changes, including early-stage and mid-stage dementia. Music, art, brain games, gentle exercise and shared meals are enjoyed each day and are designed to promote happiness, meaningful social connections and independence.
The time volunteers devoted enabled 10 members to attend 92 program days and more than 300 visits to Hope Haven. Volunteers contributed in many ways, including spending the day alongside members, serving lunch or morning snacks, sharing music, leading art activities and helping create a welcoming environment where everyone feels included. New volunteers are always welcome and can choose roles that match their interests and availability.
“Getting to spend the day with our volunteers and our members is such a gift,” said Cathy Baxter, director of Hope Haven. “Their warmth and energy make our social club feel like a family. I am deeply grateful for the time and compassion they share so Hope Haven can be a place where people move beyond cognitive barriers and feel successful and part of a joyful community.”
Karen Wray, one of 10 volunteers recognized for more than 100 hours of service this year, reflected on the program’s significance.
“Serving at Hope Haven has been one of the most meaningful parts of my life this past year,” Wray said. “The friendships formed, the laughter shared and the joy we see in our members remind me every week why this ministry matters so deeply.”
The reception featured light refreshments and fellowship while honoring volunteers for their commitment to members and families navigating dementia and other cognitive changes.
Caregivers also shared written words of appreciation describing the impact volunteers have had on their families. One caregiver wrote:
“Words falter when attempting to express what it means to our family that our mother has found a sanctuary where she is truly seen, sheltered and cherished. To the volunteers of Hope Haven: your unwavering dedication is a testament to your character. You are quite simply earthly angels.”
Hope Haven will host its next volunteer training on April 24, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Cranmer Hall, 27 W. Charlton St. in Savannah. The training will feature dementia expert Robin Dill. Attendance does not commit participants to volunteer.
For general information about Hope Haven or to register for the volunteer training, visit savannahrespite.com or call 912-231-7310.
