06/18/2026
Fantastic news for local families. 🤝 Carteret County Senior Services is launching a wonderful new Respite Program this summer to support local families navigating memory loss—and they are looking for volunteers to help make a difference!
Whether you are a caregiver looking for a weekly break for your loved one, or a community member looking to volunteer your time, read the full announcement below to see how this program can support you.
NEWS RELEASE: Carteret County Launches Program to Help Families Caring for Loved Ones with Memory Loss
CARTERET COUNTY, N.C. (June 11, 2026) – Caring for a family member with Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia is demanding work. This summer, Carteret County Senior Services will launch a new Respite Program at the Leon Mann Jr. Enrichment Center to give caregivers a regular, scheduled break while their loved ones spend the day in a safe, supervised setting.
The Carteret County Board of Commissioners previously approved start-up funding for the effort, which was developed in response to community interest in services for caregivers and individuals living with memory loss.
Designed as a structured, one-day-per-week service, participants will take part in social and recreational activities including games, music, crafts, and conversation. County staff will be on site at all times, and activities will be tailored to participants' interests and abilities.
The program is open to individuals living with early to moderate memory loss who can participate in a structured group setting with support and generally manage basic daily tasks with supervision. Program staff will complete a brief intake process to confirm eligibility and ensure the program is a good fit. Families are encouraged to call ahead to discuss individual needs before registering.
The Respite Program is a social engagement program, not an adult day care facility. Participants spend the day in structured activities with County staff on site. The program does not provide medical care, nursing services, or personal care assistance. Program days are held Tuesdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The cost is $40 per day and includes lunch, snacks, and activities.
Carteret County is also recruiting volunteers to assist with activities and companionship. No prior caregiving or medical experience is required. Volunteers must pass a background check and complete training before beginning service, including instruction on communication techniques for interacting with individuals experiencing memory loss. Volunteers will not provide personal care or medical services, and County staff will remain on site at all times.
Shelly Ashley, Director of Senior Services and the Leon Mann Jr. Enrichment Center, said the effort is intended to support both participants and caregivers.
“This program gives participants a safe, structured place to spend the day while also giving caregivers time to rest and take care of other needs,” Ashley said. “We are looking for volunteers who want to help make that support possible.”
Volunteers interested in supporting the program can apply online, contact Respite Program Manager Rachel Comer at 252-247-2626, or visit the Leon Mann Jr. Enrichment Center at 3820 Galantis Drive in Morehead City. Completed applications must be dropped off in person at the center. Scheduling will depend on program needs and volunteer availability.
Additional program details, including participant registration information, will be released closer to the summer launch. For more information, visit carteretcountync.gov/2519/Respite-Program
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