Dear Friends,

It has been incredible to see how Hope Haven has grown over this past season and to witness our community truly wrapping its arms around our ministry. As we have expanded from originally serving three families to now serving ten, every single volunteer remains essential in ensuring our members feel loved, valued, and an integral part of our family.

Our community support is deeper than ever. In addition to our dedicated, trained volunteers who show up every Tuesday and Thursday as part of our Companion Crew, Lunch Bunch, or Breakfast Barista team, we have seen local organizations jump in to lift us up, from the Pilot Club to the Serve and Shine club of First Presbyterian Church.

Our caregiver support group, which is open to any caregiver navigating cognitive changes in the community, has also grown in similar numbers. This network of mutual support ensures that no one walks this journey alone.

As we celebrate Independence Day this weekend, we reflect on what freedom looks like at Hope Haven. While our members are always safely under the watchful eye of our team, stepping away from their primary caregiver to engage with friends, participate, and help out gives them a profound feeling of independence. It reminds them that they are important, capable, and valued. At the same time, we are grateful for the four hours of independence our devoted caregivers are afforded during our sessions. To date, we have provided 2,256 hours of purposeful engagement for our members and an equal 2,256 hours of respite for their families. In return, they have provided us with so many joyful moments and happy shared experiences.

Thank you to everyone who makes this mission possible.


With gratitude,

Cathy Baxter