59 www.CharlestonWomenPodcast.com | www.ReadCW.com | www.Instagram.com/CharlestonWomen She Cares Woman-Run Nonprofits dot the Lowcountry The Charleston community is filled with incredible women making strides toward a stronger community and a more compassionate world as they lead some of the city’s most influential nonprofit organizations. They fight for women and children, those with disabilities and health challenges, people of all backgrounds in need of support and they do it all with the grace and style of true Charleston women. Remembering the Caregiver: THE ARK OF SOUTH CAROLINA Peg Lahmeyer serves as executive director of The ARK of South Carolina, an organization committed to serving people with Alzheimer’s and other dementias along with their families and caregivers. In 1996, Lahmeyer worked alongside St. Luke’s Lutheran Church to establish The ARK after becoming the primary caregiver for her own mother who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s at the age of 76. With two teenagers and a toddler at home, Lahmeyer experienced firsthand the need for caregivers to receive support and respite. Though her mother passed away at the age of 93, her legacy is carried forward through her work. “Her legacy as a care-receiver and a wonderful, nurturing mother lives on through The ARK,” Lahmeyer shared. For Lahmeyer, who previously worked in the business sector, nonprofit work is unique in that it offers an opportunity to wear many hats — regardless of your position — to get creative in achieving the mission of the organization. “It is overwhelmingly emotional to see so many community supporters attend, participate, donate and volunteer for special events and projects because they believe in The ARK’s mission. Each day I get to go home knowing I made a difference in a person’s life.” Being a leader in the community has helped Lahmeyer to understand the value of investing in her team. “Encourage staff to be proactive to learn about their job by being inquisitive, developing their knowledge and using it to bring a smile or a special moment for the families they serve, and to the community. Create a team that values their contribution of service to the community.” The ARK’s “Family Taking Care of Family” outreach BY HEATHER ROSE ARTUSHIN Charleston Women in Philanthropy Peg Lahmeyer, founder of The Ark.
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