BIG THANKS to our surprise Anonymous Angel Investor 2024 gifting our nonprofit $25K! Plus the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation gift of $5K… to support the completion of the wheelchair-accessible Forest Flower Trail & Lily Pond Overview Patio! All 2024 individual donations also helped support the nonprofit’s financial security and sustainability. Thanks to all for your generosity!
This Wintertime (January – March) we offer a 3-event Winterfest. This is a celebration of what to appreciate right now in the landscape, as well as a count-down to Springtime 2025. Caretaker’s Cottage offers a warm gathering space and indoor restroom. Reserve morning session 1pm – 2:30pm, or afternoon session 2:30pm – 4pm.
January 18, 1-4pm. Small Group Bonfire + Accessible Garden Tour of Evergreen Trees.
February 8, 1-4pm. Small Group Bonfire + Accessible Garden Tour of Blooming Witch Hazels.
March 8, 1-4pm. Small Group Bonfire + Accessible Garden Tour of Lenten Roses & Early Bulbs.
Here’s our January schedule (see below). All are welcome, free-of-charge, RSVP Required – please call/text Mary (978-887-4202) Please share our support programs with friends, family, clients, patients, or customers who are living the roles of long-term care-partner or care-receiver.
Weekly Programs
January 16, 23, 30 – 8:30am – 11:30am, Garden Crew. Volunteers (all abilities) meet new friends while assisting in the garden each week.
Monthly Programs
Thursday, January 9 – 7PM – 8PM; Group Support; 2nd Thursday once a month. Care partners caring for a family member with FTD or Young Onset ALZ meet online via Zoom.
Saturday, January 11 – 10am – 12pm: Memory Cafe; People with memory changes and care partners meet at our indoor Caretaker’s Cottage, November – March. Enjoy a cup of coffee, friendly conversation, and an optional nature-inspired craft. Reserve your visit at least 1 day ahead.
Saturday, January 18- 1pm – 4PM; WINTERFEST 1 of 3. Small Group Bonfire Fun + Accessible Garden Tour of Evergreen Trees & Shrubs, followed by light refreshments. Reserve morning session 1pm – 2:30pm, or afternoon session 2:30pm – 4pm.
Respite Retreats & Individual Support for Caregivers
By appointment with Mary E MacDonald, interfaith chaplain.
Consider Volunteering with Us!
View/Download our TEAM MEMBER APPLICATION
Our volunteers range in age from 14 to 80+. Most are young adults fulfilling volunteer requirements for school, or retired adults appreciating a weekly social connection while helping actualize our mission and vision. Any prospective volunteer is welcome to “come and see” the volunteer opportunity. Seasonal volunteers usually commit to a weekly schedule, April – November.
GARDEN CREW: Help maintain our wheelchair-accessible gardens (once per week, Thursday, 9am – 12pm)
Work with a small group to clear trails, and care for plants.
PAPER PATROL: Help manage papers and mailings in the office (once per week, Wednesdays, 1-4pm)
Work with our office staff to file papers, organize the library, or mail letters.
OUTREACH: Help with outreach in the community (flexible schedule)
Work with our Outreach Coordinator to spread the word about Rest-Stop-Ranch services.
2025 Spring Fundraising Goal
We are currently raising $20,000 to support the planting, maintenance, marketing, and staffing at our four Spring Festivals:
Accessible Bulb Parade
Accessible Lilac Fest
Accessible Rose Rodeo
Accessible Lily Fest
Donate $100. to support a caregiver 1:1 spiritual-care session.
Donate $50. to help plant a fragrant rose shrub.
Donate $25. to replace a frequently-used garden tool.
3 Easy Ways to Donate:
Online – Venmo “Rest-Stop-Ranch”; OR Facebook.com/reststopranch
Check – Make payable to “Rest-Stop-Ranch”; Mail to:
202 Haverhill Road, Topsfield, MA 01983
Cash – Locked Boxes Onsite
Thanks again to ALL who have financially contributed over the years to make our ADA Accessible Garden Trails (0.5 mile).
With Gratitude,
The Rest-Stop-Ranch Team ~ Building access for all, with fragrant flowers and fruits within reach.