FOUNDERS PLACE
A Respite Ministry for Adults with Memory Challenges and Caregiver Support
The mission of Founders Place is to enhance quality of life for adults living with memory challenges through an atmosphere of joy and a community of support while providing respite to caregivers.
About Founders Place
Founders Place is a ministry of Saint Luke’s Episcopal Church that seeks to end the isolation of dementia with an enlivening, joyful respite program (2 half days per week), a weekly caregiver support group, and community education events.
Through visual art, movement, music, storytelling, games and fellowship, Founders Place respite program stimulates cognition, nurtures growth, and provides purpose and meaning for participants with memory challenges, as well as dedicated volunteers who serve as intentional companions. “Care Partners” weekly support group for caregivers offers a safe space for confidential discussion, listening, and education.
Together, Founders Place respite program, Care Partners weekly support group, and our community education events foster a community of connection, education and care.
For more information about Founders Place, contact Executive Director, Susanna Whitsett, 205.802.6217 or Associate Director, Ellie Johnson, 205.802.6218, or at foundersplace@saint-lukes.com.
Volunteer Information
Founders Place runs on “volunteer power”. Each friend (participant) is paired one-to-one with a volunteer who serves as an intentional companion and assistant for day. Friend and Volunteer participate in all activities together. Volunteers provide the level of assistance needed while encouraging autonomy in decision-making and a sense of community. Each volunteer is trained in how to communicate with a person who has dementia. Everyone is included, everyone has value, everyone is an important part of the group. Our caring and capable volunteers support the mission in very direct and practical ways as servant leaders and ALWAYS with a smile!
Join us in Making a More Dementia-Friendly Community
Support Group
Care Partners is a community support group for anyone caring for a loved one with a form of dementia. You do not need to be a member of Founders Place or Saint Luke’s to participate. Care Partners meets every Tuesday 10:15-11:30 a.m. This group offers a safe space for confidential discussion, listening, and education. For more information, please send an email to foundersplace@saint-lukes.com
Resources for Caregivers
Montessori Dementia Care & Brain Health with The Rev. Katie Norris: Link Here
Careblazers videos with Dr. Natali :: Link Here
Caregiver Education from Alzheimer’s of Central Alabama :: Link Here
Caregiver Help with Elaine Sanchez :: Link Here
LifeCare for Seniors (life management for seniors and caregivers) :: Link Here
Positive Approach to Care with Teepa Snow :: Link Here
Surfing the Waves of Alzheimer’s with Dr. Renee Harmon :: Link Here