The Story Behind Empathy House
Empathy House was born from a quiet moment of honesty, love, and deep concern for others. One day, Ruth asked her husband Glen what was troubling him, his answer was simple:
“I’m worried about the population.”
At first, Ruth wasn’t sure what he meant. Over time, she realized he wasn’t speaking about numbers or statistics—he was speaking about people. He was worried about how many individuals were struggling, aging alone, feeling unseen, or lacking the care and connection they deserved. Glen’s words stayed with her.
After his passing, Ruth carried that concern in her heart. She began looking more closely at her own community and asking important questions. She found that there was a real and growing need for respite senior care. To honor Glen, she chose to open her home to benefit the community. She reached out to neighbors, local families, and caregivers to understand how she could help. From those conversations, Empathy House began to take shape.
Empathy House is more than a place. It is a sanctuary.
It is a response to Glen’s concern. It is a living expression of compassion. It is Ruth’s way of turning love into action. Here, seniors are welcomed with dignity. Families are supported. Care is given with patience, respect, and genuine human connection.
Empathy House exists because one man cared deeply about people—and one woman chose to honor that care by building something lasting.
Through Empathy House, Glen’s spirit of empathy, concern, and humanity lives on.
Respite Care
Respite Care for Seniors
We offer free short-term daytime care for seniors who need companionship, supervision, and supportive engagement while their caregivers take time to rest, work, or attend to personal needs.
This service is designed to provide peace of mind for families and meaningful connection for seniors
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Daily Care Schedule
We currently offer two daily time blocks:
Morning Session
🕘 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Afternoon Session
🕐 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Each session is structured to provide consistent care, engagement, and comfort.
Availability is limited and scheduled in advance.
Enrichment & Engagement
We believe emotional and social well-being are just as important as physical care.
Activities may include:
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Group discussions and guided conversation
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Creative and educational workshops
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Light games and memory-based activities
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Storytelling and shared experiences
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Gentle movement or relaxation exercises
Snacks & Refreshments
Light snacks and beverages are provided during each session. We aim to accommodate basic dietary needs when possible and encourage families to share any important preferences or restrictions during consultation.
Our goal is to create a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere where guests can enjoy refreshments while socializing and participating in activities.
How to get started
Click here to fill out the
1
Initial Consulation
All clients begin with a consultation.
This allows us to:
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Learn about the senior’s needs and preferences
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Understand medical, mobility, or safety considerations
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Answer family questions
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Ensure our program is a good fit
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Establish trust and clear expectations
Consultations are conducted by appointment only. Fill out a contact form, email, or call to schedule.
2
Intake Form & Care Plan
Before services begin, we require an intake form so we can understand each guest’s needs, preferences, and routines. This includes basic health considerations, dietary needs, interests, and emergency contacts.
We create a simple, personalized care plan to ensure each visit is safe, comfortable, and meaningful.
We work closely with families and caregivers and adjust care plans as needs change.
3
Reserve a Time Slot
Empathy House operates on a scheduled, appointment-only basis.
After the initial consultation, families may reserve ongoing or occasional time slots based on availability.
Care is provided exclusively in Ruth’s home, where each guest is welcomed into a calm, respectful, and nurturing environment.
Voices
What Families Say
"Ruth has a huge heart and a beautiful, warm home and is willing and able." -Malaina D
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteers play a meaningful role in supporting our daily
programs. Opportunities may include:
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Assisting with group activities and workshops
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Providing companionship and conversation
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Helping with light meal and snack preparation
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Supporting creative or educational sessions
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Offering administrative or outreach support
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Helping maintain a welcoming, organized space
All volunteers are guided and supported to ensure a safe
and positive experience for both guests and caregivers.
Get Involved
Click here to fill out the
Empathy House Volunteer Form
Who We’re Looking For
We welcome volunteers who are:
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Compassionate, patient, and dependable
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Respectful of seniors and their dignity
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Comfortable in a home-based care setting
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Willing to learn and follow care guidelines
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Committed to creating a safe, supportive environment
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Enjoys storytelling
Previous caregiving experience is appreciated but not required. To protect the well-being of our guests, all volunteers participate in a brief screening and orientation process.
Other Ways to Support
Not everyone can volunteer in person. Additional ways
to help include:
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Donating supplies, snacks, or activity materials
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Sharing our mission within the community
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Assisting with fundraising efforts
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Providing professional services in your area of expertise
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Emailing ideas or suggestions for needed services
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Email any messages or inspirations that will make our community members happy
