SUMMERVILLE, S.C. — The Leadership Dorchester Class of 2026 is inviting the community to 

come together in support of two meaningful fundraising initiatives this June, benefiting the 

construction of a new pavilion at The ARK of South Carolina. Held in recognition of 

Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, these efforts aim to both raise critical funds and honor 

those impacted by Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia.

The class has launched its Buy-a-Brick Campaign, giving community members the opportunity 

to leave a lasting legacy. For $100, individuals and businesses can purchase a commemorative 

brick engraved with a name or message in honor or memory of a loved one. These bricks will 

become a permanent part of the pavilion’s design, alongside salvaged bricks from the historic 

Berlin G. Myers property—preserving a meaningful piece of local history.

Bricks are available for purchase through July at: https://givebutter.com/LD26bricks.

In addition, the class has partnered with REV Federal Credit Union for a Purple Ribbon 

Campaign throughout the month of June. Community members are encouraged to visit any REV 

branch to purchase a purple ribbon for $5, displayed in tribute to those affected by Alzheimer’s. 

No REV account is required to participate, making it an easy and impactful way for anyone to 

show their support.

“REV is passionate about supporting local causes,” said Jen Saunders, REV Regional Vice 

President. “That’s why we’re excited to team up with The ARK and Leadership Dorchester to 

raise Alzheimer’s Awareness and collect donations to support the pavilion project."

Originally announced in April, the Leadership Dorchester Class of 2026 selected the pavilion 

project to support the continued growth of The ARK of South Carolina. The new outdoor space 

will provide expanded opportunities for programming, activities, and connection, enhancing the 

experience for participants and offering meaningful support for their families.

The class has already made significant progress on the project and remains on track for completion this fall.

The ARK of South Carolina is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving individuals living 

with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia, while providing essential support, engagement, 

and respite for caregivers and families.

To learn more about the pavilion project or explore additional ways to give, visit: 

https://givebutter.com/leadershipdorchester26.

Media Contact: Chris Makowski

Public Information Officer 

Town of Summerville

Email: [email protected]

Phone: (843) 607-2294

About The ARK of South Carolina

The ARK of South Carolina is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting families affected by Alzheimer’s 

disease and related dementias (ADRD). Founded in 1996 in Summerville, The ARK provides a range of services ,

including social respite care, caregiver support, education, and resource referrals. Its signature social respite program 

offers a safe, engaging environment for individuals with dementia while giving caregivers much-needed time for rest 

and renewal. For nearly three decades, The ARK has helped improve quality of life for individuals with dementia 

while empowering the caregivers who support them. For more information visit www.thearkofsc.org. 

About Leadership Dorchester

Leadership Dorchester is a program of the Greater Summerville/Dorchester County Chamber of Commerce designed 

to cultivate informed, engaged, and forward-thinking leaders. This 11-month program provides an in-depth exploration 

of the political, civic, economic, and social dynamics shaping Dorchester County, while offering participants 

opportunities for leadership development, team building, and professional networking. Through hands-on experiences 

and a class-led community impact project, Leadership Dorchester equips participants to better serve, strengthen, and 

lead within their communities. For more information visit www.greatersummerville.org.