Long-time Columbia residents know it well. Newcomers are always impressed.
It’s the 38-acre Still Hopes Retirement Community campus, which today is home to nearly 400 residents served by a staff of 250 dedicated employees. This unique community is built around the Guignard Home, a magnificent Victorian mansion constructed over a century ago.
At the time of its completion in 1910, the mansion was the largest home in Lexington County. The home and acreage were bequeathed to Trinity Episcopal Church in 1958 by Dr. Jane Bruce Guignard, who believed that the family home could serve a greater purpose by opening its doors to a senior population.
Today, Still Hopes is a faith-based, ecumenical Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) that remains affiliated with the Episcopal Church and a place where spiritual values are an important component of daily life.
Another Still Hopes landmark, the Chapel of the Holy Spirit, is at the very heart of the community’s ministry. Consecrated in 1997, the Chapel features 12 stained glass windows, each portraying a Biblical story from Creation through the Ascension of Christ. Continually promoting spiritual growth, Still Hopes was the first senior living community in the state to employ a full-time Chaplain.
Perhaps the community is best-known for its world-class Wellness Program, which is available both to residents and to non-residents age 55 or older. The program’s aim is to help all participants achieve their full potential in mind, body and spirit. The program’s centerpiece, the 12,000 square-foot Marshall A. Shearouse Center for Wellness, features a 20 x 60 indoor heated pool for therapy and water aerobics. The Center has state-of-the-art exercise equipment designed for a wide spectrum of abilities along with a studio for classes.
After a workout, residents and guests alike enjoy dining in The Palmetto Dining Room, a full service restaurant featuring formal table settings and a five course menu of delicious items prepared to perfection by award-winning Executive Chef Jimmie Jackson.
It’s all part of why we say “Life Here is Better.”
Want to learn more? The Still Hopes Speakers Forum is available to address church groups, Sunday School Classes, women’s groups, retreats and others on a variety of timely senior living topics. Call (803) 739-5040 to arrange a presentation for your group.
