Alice’s Clubhouse supports people with dementia while giving families room to recharge
by Tess Farmer
The passing of Dolly Parton’s husband brought renewed attention to the often-unseen challenges of caregiving.
When a loved one has dementia or another chronic condition, caregivers can devote so much energy to providing support that their own health and well-being take a back seat. In the Lowcountry, Alice’s Clubhouse is helping families find a better balance. It’s also the only facility of its kind in the state of South Carolina.
Dementia Day Care at Alice’s Clubhouse
Founded by David AvRutick in 2019 in honor of his mother, Alice, the organization is the region’s only dementia-specific, medical-model memory-care day center. It offers people living with memory loss a stimulating, structured environment where they can connect, participate in meaningful activities and experience a renewed sense of purpose, while giving caregivers valuable time to recharge.
“We created Alice’s Clubhouse because we wanted my mother to have a place where she could thrive, not just be cared for,” says AvRutick. “We wanted a place where people living with dementia could feel engaged, valued and part of a community, while their families received the support they needed also.”
Unlike a traditional senior center or residential memory-care facility, Alice’s Clubhouse combines professional dementia oversight with a welcoming, community-centered atmosphere. Activities are tailored to members’ needs, encouraging socialization, stimulation and enjoyment.
According to AvRutick and Executive Director Bonnie Cresser, the impact extends beyond the clubhouse. They report that the vast majority of members stabilize or improve in their condition, while families notice meaningful changes in communication and the quality of time spent together.
“When people have a sense of purpose and look forward to coming here, you see a difference,” says Cresser. “They’re interacting, laughing and building relationships. And when families have the opportunity to step away knowing their loved one is in a supportive environment, that makes a tremendous difference in their lives also.”
AvRutick witnessed this firsthand with his father, Julian. As Alice received care and companionship at the clubhouse, Julian regained his joy and sense of humor. Sharing the responsibility of caregiving with a supportive community was life-changing for him.
Cresser and her team also help families navigate the dementia-care journey, offering guidance, identifying needs and connecting caregivers with resources and referrals. Members can access additional services, including therapies, medical care, massage and haircuts, in a familiar setting.
“It takes a village, and we’re proud to be part of that village,” says Cresser.
At Alice’s Clubhouse, caring for someone with dementia means caring for the whole family. By giving members a place to belong and caregivers time to care for themselves, the organization helps families find connection, relief and more moments of joy along the way.
Alice’s Clubhouse is located at 1156 Bowman Rd #105, Mt. Pleasant. To learn more, call 843-284-8367 or visit www.alicesclubhouse.com.
