Dear Friends,

This Valentine’s Day, I found myself reflecting on love, the kind of love that shows up in generosity, in service, in trust, and in community. This Valentine’s Day is especially meaningful to us because it also marks our one-year anniversary. One year ago, we opened our doors with hope and a vision to serve families in our community. Today, as we look back, we are overwhelmed with gratitude for every single one of you who made this first year possible.

To our donors - your generosity laid the foundation. Because of you, we were able to welcome ten wonderful families through our doors. You made it possible for our members to experience four hours packed with joy, laughter, creativity, and connection every Tuesday and Thursday. You helped create a space where dignity and belonging are felt.

To our volunteers - you are the heartbeat of this ministry. Week after week, you showed up with energy, patience, and unwavering commitment. You built friendships, sparked smiles, and brought genuine joy into the room. Your dedication turned ordinary days into something truly special.

To our caregivers and families - thank you for trusting us with your loved ones. That trust is sacred. We are deeply grateful for each and every one of our members. They bring us immense joy, purpose, and countless reasons to smile every single day. Your willingness to share your family members with us allowed this program to grow into a place of safety, support, and community. We are honored to walk alongside you. Through monthly support groups and our caregiver education events, we hope you have felt encouraged, equipped, and seen.

This first year was not built by one group alone. It was built by a community choosing to love well through giving, serving, and trusting. Because of you, rest was given. Joy was shared. Friendships were formed. And families felt supported.

As we celebrate one year, we celebrate you. Thank you for being part of this story. Thank you for believing in this mission. Thank you for helping us love these special families in our community.

With heartfelt gratitude and love,

Cathy Baxter

***Don't miss our 1st Year Highlight Video at the end of this newsletter!***

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LOVE IS IN THE AIR

The new year is already off to a joyful and inspiring start at Hope Haven! We began with a colorful art exploration of Yayoi Kusama with Kate, discovering bold patterns and celebrating creativity in every form. John then guided us on an armchair adventure to Alaska, where we explored breathtaking landscapes and shared stories of travel and wonder, and we had a visit from Super Bowl winner Todd Lyght's father. We also took a step back in time to the 1960s, reminiscing about favorite television shows, childhood games, and the music that still makes us want to dance. In fact, we learned a dance to Elvis' All Shook Up!

A sweet highlight of the season of love was our multi-generational time with the children from St. John's Church Children’s School. Together we decorated heart-shaped cookies baked by Robbie, complete with plenty of icing on cute little faces! We exchanged valentines, and the children’s cards were especially thoughtful this year; they transformed their handprints into charming animals and playful puns that delighted everyone who received them.

As part of our purposeful outreach, we created heartfelt Valentine cards for local shut-ins, sharing Hope Haven joy beyond our walls. With yoga, balloon volleyball, and even a little bowling to keep us moving, the year is already off to an energetic start!


Hope Haven is open

Tuesdays & Thursdays 10:30 - 2:30
We joyfully serve those living with brain changes like dementia.

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To avoid leprechaun mischief, we will be closed Tuesday, March 17th

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Wow! Donors, you truly blew us away with your incredible generosity. Because of you, we successfully met our 2025 Match Challenge! Your faithful support allows Hope Haven to continue loving and caring for families in our community as we grow and expand our reach. 
We are so grateful for you.

Still want to give? It’s not too late to make a difference.
Click here to donate. 
If you prefer to give by check (and receive a tax letter), 
 mail your gift to:

St. John’s Church Hope Haven

1 West Macon Street

Savannah, GA 31401

***Your prize for reading to the end - Enjoy our 1st Year Highlight Video***