The Gathering

Providing a safe and enjoyable environment for those who are experiencing early- or mid-stage stage memory loss and giving respite to caregivers who desire a break.

What is the Purpose of The Gathering?

  • Provides a safe and enjoyable place for individuals who are experiencing early- to mid-stage memory loss.
  • Presents a time of respite to caregivers who need a break.
  • Gives volunteers the opportunity to serve their neighbors.

How Can I Get Involved in The Gathering?

To learn how to volunteer or participate in The Gathering, contact:

Carolyn Klaver, RN
Coordinator of The Gathering
Lyngblomsten
(651) 414-5291
cklaver@lyngblomsten.org

It is like the seed put in the soil - the more one sows, the greater the harvest.
--Orison Swett Marden

The Gathering does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, age, gender, handicap,
familial status, or national origin.

How Often and Where Does The Gathering Meet?

The Gathering meets from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the following sites:

1st and 3rd Tuesday

Augustana Lutheran Church
1400 South Robert
West St. Paul, MN  55118

Prince of Peace Lutheran Church
13901 Fairview Drive
Burnsville, MN  55337

2nd and 4th Tuesday

Centennial United Methodist Church
(In Partnership with St. Timothy Lutheran Church, St. Paul)
1524 West County Road C2
Roseville, MN  55113

Salem Lutheran Church
11 Bernard Street
West St. Paul, MN  55118

Some participants may choose to attend at one site only.

How much does it cost to participate?

A $25 suggested donation covers the cost for a day at The Gathering.

What Can I Expect at The Gathering?

Participants arrive at the site by 10:00 AM and enjoy a morning of activities.  Following a nutritious lunch, participants are involved in another series of stimulating activities and socializing.  Each Gathering accommodates a maximum of 8 participants. 

Activities include things such as music and sing-a-longs, crafts, cards, discussion groups, current events, special speakers, chair exercises, and field trips.

The Gathering is staffed by dedicated volunteers who have been specially trained to understand the distinctive needs of persons experiencing memory loss.

Transportation to The Gathering can be arranged through DARTS.

 

Who Benefits From The Gathering?

Participants

Participants enjoy fellowship, food, and stimulating activities and helps prevent the isolation that so often happens to persons who have memory loss.

This is my social club.  I get to visit, laugh, sing, and have an enjoyable day.
  --Margaret S., Participant

Caregivers

Caregivers appreciate the opportunity to have five hours of respite and feel comfortable knowing their loved one is in a safe, stimulating environment.

For me, it is a blessing to see her involved in something she enjoys, looks forward to, and leaves with warm feelings.  This fills a niche I cannot provide.
  --Oliver J., Caregiver

Volunteers

Volunteers serve by planning and helping with activities, providing transportation, and socializing. 

Having cared for a parent with dementia, I know how wonderful it is to have a few hours of respite for the caregiver.
  --Jim N., Volunteer

 The Gathering is a collaborative partnership of:

  • St. Timothy Lutheran Church
  • Como Park Living at Home Block Nurse Program
  • Centennial United Methodist Church
  • Lyngblomsten Services
  • Augustana Lutheran Church
  • Salem Lutheran Church
  • Prince of Peace (Burnsville)
  • Oak Knoll Lutheran (Minnetonka)
  • DARTS
  • Neighbors Inc.
  • Common Sense Services for Seniors
  • Alzheimer's Association
  • Dakota County Community Services