On the fourth Thursday of each month, from 1:00-2:30 p.m., St. John’s United Church of Christ hosts a Memory Cafe called Day-by-Day. A Memory Cafe is a safe and stigma-free gathering where caregivers and their loved ones with early stages of dementia, Alzheimer’s, or mild memory loss can enjoy offered programming and engage in other activities. The Memory Cafe provides mutual support, exchange of information, and aims to decrease the social isolation that often accompanies dementia. It is a relaxing environment where people can share conversation, laughter, music, and meaningful activities without pressure or expectation. It is a place where each individual story is honored and met as they are.
Green County, like many rural communities, faces a growing need for accessible, compassionate care for those living with dementia and related conditions. Opportunities for social engagement and connection can be limited and isolation is a real concern for both the loved one and the caregiver. Day-by-Day helps bridge that gap by offering connection, companionship, and understanding that sustains emotional and spiritual well-being.
While Day-by-Day is hosted at St. John’s United Church of Christ, it is truly a program ministry with and for the wider community. It belongs to anyone seeking a place of welcome and support. This is not a church program. It is a shared effort to care for one another.
As the program continues to grow, so does the hope surrounding it. St. John’s is seeking to expand participation, as we know the need is great in our community. We would love to welcome new guests who could benefit from Day-by-Day’s supportive environment. If someone comes to mind, we invite you to reach out to them and share this opportunity. We would also like to deepen its volunteer base and expand our circle. Volunteers play a vital role in creating the atmosphere that makes Day-by-Day so special. We are seeking volunteers to help with the day-of and to expand our board. Day-of volunteers help with program implementation and board members will guide the future of the program ministry and support network while looking toward the future sustainability of the program.
If you feel called to be part of this work, or know someone who might, we would be grateful for your connection. This is a community-centered program ministry which Green County so desperately needs. 608-205-8203 daybydaymemorycafe@stjohnsuccmonroe.com.
— Reflections appears regularly on the religion page. The column features a variety of local writers, coordinated through the Monroe Area Clergy Group. Rev. Christina Schoenwetter is the Associate Pastor of Engagement at St. John’s United Church of Christ in Monroe.
