Last September, The ARK's bus of 200,000 plus miles began having mechanical issues and by October it was out of commission. Since 2004, The ARK has been offering a transportation service to and from The ARK House to families for care-receivers to attend their programs. This service is vital as some families do not have reliable transportation. The time on the bus extends the time the caregiver has to take care of themselves, keep medical appointments, or enjoy time alone or with other family and friends.
“The ARK is the only Alzheimer's social respite care in the area that provides transportation. Families are so grateful for the extended time it allows them as well as making it possible for their loved one to attend The ARK’s programs,” said Peg Lahmeyer, executive director of The ARK of SC.
Over the last few months, community members stepped up to help on the journey of acquiring a new vehicle. Thanks to the The Steady Hand Foundation, a matching gift of $13,000 was designated for the purchase of a vehicle.
“We are extremely grateful for McElveen Buick GMC, matching funds from community donors, our supportive board of directors, and staff to successfully match The Steady Hand Foundation gift,” Lahmeyer said. “A special thank you to Wayne Waters and his talented staff at Mr. Sign for designing and installing our new decals.”
For 26 years, The ARK has been a local nonprofit organization assisting families throughout five counties (Dorchester, Berkeley, Charleston, Orangeburg and Colleton County) in the Lowcountry. The ARK helps families cope with daily challenges of Alzheimer's Disease or related dementia through respite care, family support programs, caregiver consultations and educational classes. The ARK is funded primarily by grants, donations, and fundraising events.
Respite programs are offered in Summerville (Monday-Thursday) and in Harleyville (Wednesday) to give family caregivers a much-needed break from the stress of around-the-clock caregiving. The ARK also facilitate support groups, lunch and learn educational workshops, memory screenings, resource referrals, caregiver workshops, and First Responder/Law Enforcement training.
For more information about The ARK, visit www.TheARKofSC.org or call 843-471-1360.
