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Anchor Community Respite, Asbury UMC — Find the support you need at Asbury United Methodist Church. (Asbury UMC)

Everyone needs support through life’s seesaw of challenges. But finding the right place and program for your unique needs isn’t always easy.

We recently discovered that Asbury United Methodist Church in North Shelby County offers a range of support groups led by licensed counselors, pastoral staff and trained facilitators.

Read on for a look at some of the groups offered to find the one that’s right for you, whether you’re a caregiver for someone with dementia or a family facing the hardships of substance use.

1. Asbury UMC’s Caregiver Support Group

Who it’s for: Those caring for a loved one with memory loss due to dementia or Alzheimer’s.

What to expect:

You’ll connect with others facing similar experiences.
You’ll have a safe, judgment-free space to share and be heard.

“Caregivers of loved ones with memory loss carry so much—physically, emotionally and spiritually. It can feel isolating, especially when others don’t always understand what the day-to-day is like.

In our group, we troubleshoot difficult situations, share struggles and always celebrate small victories. We want people to know they don’t have to do this alone.”
Rev. Maggie Dunaway, Congregational Care Pastor & Caregiver Support Facilitator, Asbury UMC

How to participate:

When:
- 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month | Begins at 1PM
Where: Asbury United Methodist Church, 6690 Cahaba Valley Rd, Birmingham, AL 35242
Cost: Free | No registration required

2. Asbury UMC’s Substance Abuse Support for Families

Who it’s for: Families experiencing substance use disorders. This group is open to all sober family members + friends age 18 or older.

What to expect:

You’ll connect with local families going through similar challenges.
You’ll learn about helpful local resources.
You’ll receive confidential education + support from the Birmingham-based organization Addiction Prevention Coalition.

“Our facilitators have gone through many years of personal struggles with addicted loved ones, are well connected to the resources in our area and offer free personal support.”
Dave Urech, Facilitator of Substance Abuse Support for Families, Asbury UMC

How to participate:

When: Every Monday night from 6:30-8PM
Where:
- Asbury United Methodist Church, 6690 Cahaba Valley Rd, Birmingham, AL 35242
Cost: Free | No registration required

3. Asbury UMC’s Anchor Community Respite Ministry

Who it’s for: People with memory loss due to dementia + Alzheimer’s + their caregivers.

What to expect:

Participants will enjoy a safe + welcoming space to engage in fellowship + activities like art, music + games.
Caregivers will have time to recharge, whether running errands, visiting with friends or resting.

“Anchor is beneficial to those living with dementia because it gives them their life back. Most people living with memory loss issues become isolated and spend most of the day in front of the television. When they come to Anchor, they find a new sense of purpose.

They are doing community work, socializing, being creative, singing and exercising their brain. The best part is they are creating new neuron connections due to all these activities.”
Gina McIntyre, Program Director of Anchor Community Respite Ministry, Asbury UMC

How to participate:

When: Every Tuesday, Wednesday + Thursday | 10AM-2PM
Where: Asbury United Methodist Church, 6690 Cahaba Valley Rd, Birmingham, AL 35242
Cost: $40 per day | Scholarships also available.
Learn more + register

You can find more groups and resources at Asbury, including grief support, counseling services and Alcoholics Anonymous. See what’s offered here.

Connect with a support group today at Asbury United Methodist Church.

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