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A Jefferson City-based nonprofit is offering caregivers with those being treated for dementia a much-needed break from their activities.

The Gathering is a nonprofit organization through First United Methodist Church of Jefferson City dedicated to advancing a social, volunteer-driven respite model that improves the quality of life for people living with memory loss due to dementia, while also offering peace of mind and meaningful respite to their caregivers. The Gathering’s work is rooted in the belief that individuals living with dementia continue to need—and deeply benefit from—connection, purpose, and community.

Rachel Watson, The Gathering’s Director of Respite Ministries, explained that the nonprofit is responding to dementia through a social model, rather than a medical model.

“This approach reflects a growing understanding that while dementia is a progressive illness, people do not always need medical intervention in the mild to moderate stages of dementia—but they do always need friendship,” Watson said.

The Gathering operates under an approved exemption through the Tennessee Department of Human Services for Limited Respite Care Services licensure, reflecting The Gathering’s role as a volunteer-led social program while meeting applicable state guidelines.

Across communities, a renewed response to dementia and Alzheimer’s is emerging—one that complements medical advances and long-term care options by strengthening the social and relational supports that allow individuals to remain connected and valued. This response recognizes that alongside clinical care, people living with dementia need belonging, meaning, and human connection.

With The Gathering, trained volunteers create intentional opportunities for individuals living with dementia to continue experiencing purpose, belonging, and joy. This model is rooted in love, dignity, and meaningful human connection.

“We carefully consider whether our program is a good fit for each individual we serve,” Watson said. “We lovingly refer to participants as our ‘friends,’ reflecting the dignity and respect central to our social model.”

Because The Gathering is a four-hour, volunteer-led social program, friends must be ambulatory (with or without a wheelchair, cane, or walker), able to feed themselves independently, and comfortable in a small group setting. Staff does not administer medications during program hours; participants need to be able to attend without medication support and manage their personal toiletry needs independently.

During each four-hour session, friends engage in thoughtfully designed, evidence-based activities that promote cognitive stimulation, physical movement, creativity, and meaningful social connection. Through activities such as games, art, music, light exercise, and shared fellowship, participants experience the true benefit of this model: community. Consistent relationships and intentional engagement foster a renewed sense of belonging, supporting emotional well-being alongside cognitive and physical health.

At this time, The Gathering serves six enrolled individuals living with dementia. Since launching, some participants’ caregivers have faced the difficult but natural progression of the disease, eventually transitioning their loved ones into long-term memory care settings. Even in these moments, The Gathering remains a meaningful part of each family’s journey, supporting them during seasons of transition and change.

In addition to participant programming, The Gathering also hosts a monthly caregiver support group, recognizing the emotional demands of caregiving. The group offers space for shared experience, education, and encouragement, helping caregivers feel less isolated and more supported.

Community members are welcome to attend, even if their loved one is not enrolled in The Gathering.

Watson said that 50% of the Gathering’s “friends” are from Hamblen County.

As a volunteer-driven organization, The Gathering depends on the strength of its community to continue growing and serving families affected by dementia.

Those who feel called can support the mission by volunteering, sharing information through word of mouth, or inviting a representative to speak to churches, civic groups, book clubs, and other local organizations.

When a community comes together in awareness and compassion, more individuals living with dementia—and the caregivers who love them—can experience connection, dignity, and hope.

For more information, contact Watson at 865-599-9233 or email respite@fumcjc.com.