Today we’d like to introduce you to Cathy Baxter.
Hi Cathy, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
When I was a little girl in pigtails and knee socks, my mom and I would drive around Savannah visiting seniors she knew were living alone. Their eyes would light up when we arrived. Those visits became special moments we all looked forward to. I came to understand how important it is that no one feels forgotten or alone and how fulfilling it is to simply brighten someone’s day. Since then, I’ve always been drawn to opportunities that bring people together and offer comfort, presence, or joy in simple everyday ways.
Being named the inaugural director of Hope Haven, a social day program for individuals living with brain changes, has been a true blessing. It’s a space where both our members and our volunteers can step away from the stress and noise of daily life. For four hours, we all live fully in the moment together. There’s laughter, conversation, music, creativity, and companionship. We make no distinction between members and volunteers. We’re simply people, connecting. That joyful connection has the power to uplift everyone in the room.
My father was a caregiver for many years. Watching his quiet devotion left a lasting impression on me. I saw firsthand the strength it takes to care for someone every single day, and I also saw how deeply caregivers need support, too. That experience is part of why I’m so grateful that Hope Haven not only engages individuals living with neurological challenges but also provides rest and encouragement to the families and care partners who walk alongside them.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Our dedicated and enthusiastic volunteers and loving caregivers have helped our first months run smoothly, but like any new endeavor, we’ve faced some challenges. Caregivers are incredibly devoted, so it can be a struggle for them to accept help and let their loved one try a day at Hope Haven. It often takes repeated encouragement from family and friends to help them take that first step. Once they do, the impact is clear. Their loved ones thrive through music, movement, art, and new friendships. When caregivers take time to rest, they return with renewed strength to continue caring with love and resilience.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Hope Haven is a community outreach ministry founded by St. John’s Church for individuals living with early to mid-stage dementia or other neurological changes. We offer joyful, meaningful engagement while also giving caregivers much needed time to rest and recharge.
Our social day program meets every Tuesday and Thursday in the heart of downtown Savannah. For four fun-filled hours, we enjoy carefully designed activities that spark creativity, movement, and companionship. Each day has a central theme that incorporates music, art, games, conversation, shared meals, and exercise. One of the most cherished parts of the day is a time of devotion, led by a visiting spiritual leader, including priests and rabbis, whom we lovingly refer to as our “spiritual warriors”. These moments bring comfort, grounding, and a sense of sacred presence that we are deeply proud to offer.
We also enjoy frequent visits from our “sunbeams” (sweet students at the Children’s School at St. John’s Church) who attend preschool in our same building. Whether it’s a puppet show, holiday party, or a simple round of bingo, their joy and energy light up the room and bring out the youthful spirit in all of us!
Another favorite tradition is our daily balloon volleyball game. The moment the first balloon soars over the net, smiles break out, competitive spirits emerge, and the room fills with laughter.
Our dedicated volunteers are a big part of what makes Hope Haven so special. Each one completes dementia training and brings warmth, compassion, and enthusiasm to everything they do. From the first cheerful greeting at the door to the final goodbye, there’s a spirit of warmth and belonging. We focus on meeting people where they are and celebrating their personalities, stories, and strengths. What makes our approach truly unique is that there is no distinction made between members and volunteers. We are all part of the same experience, sharing joy and building relationships that matter.
In addition to our day program, we host a monthly caregiver support group on the third Tuesday of each month. Led by Jill Costello from Hospice Savannah’s Edel Caregiver Institute, this group offers education, encouragement, and mutual support for those navigating similar challenges.
Hope Haven is a faith-based community built on kindness, presence, and the simple joy of being together. We are here to walk alongside families. Our greatest hope is that everyone who walks through our doors feels welcomed, uplifted, and connected.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
Oh my goodness, there are so many people who have played a meaningful role in bringing Hope Haven to life. From the very beginning, the parishioners, clergy, and outreach committee of St. John’s Church embraced the idea with open arms. It all began with a suggestion from a church member whose father had once benefited from a similar program. That spark of inspiration quickly found fertile ground.
The broader Savannah community has stepped up with generous financial gifts and the gift of time, both of which are crucial to our success. Our volunteers are the backbone of our ministry. Their dedication, energy, and kindness are woven into every part of what we do. We are also incredibly grateful for the guidance and encouragement of our sister program, Hope Arbor, and its director, Eliza Brooks. Her insight and steady support have been a blessing every step of the way.
Hope Haven has grown through the hands and hearts of so many. It has been truly beautiful to witness what can happen when people come together with compassion, faith, and a shared commitment to caring for others.
Pricing:
- Please visit www.savannahrespite.com/members for pricing information.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.savannahrespite.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574770149295
