The ARK (Alzheimer’s Respite Care) assists families of the Lowcountry who are living with Alzheimer’s Disease and other memory disorders. The ARK began in 1996 as a community outreach initiative of St. Luke’s Lutheran Church, serving 13 families with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. It was originally held in the church classrooms in St. Luke’s Education Building, but over the years, it expanded into a thriving and much-needed ministry in our community.
Today, the ARK is located at 502 West North Street in Summerville, where it operates a four-day-a-week program including a social group respite program for Alzheimer’s patients, monthly support groups for families of Alzheimer’s patients, caregiver consultation and education programs, Law Enforcement and First Responder training for Alzheimer’s patients. They also reach out through the NOAH project, assisting rural towns in developing Alzheimer’s support services. Every August, the ARK holds a 5K Race and 1 Mile Fun Run that begins and ends at St. Luke’s. Every Spring, they raise money through a program called Dancing With The ARK’s Stars, which is a fundraiser that pairs local celebrities with professional dancers. Since December 2018, they also hold an Ugly Sweater 5K and 1 Mile Holiday Fun Run fundraiser as well. We are proud to support this ministry as it continues to grow and serve families in our community!
