The Veranda - A Congregational Respite Program

Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Veranda Ministries, was celebrated as this year’s recipient of Welch College’s prestigious Strong and Courageous Award. This recognition, presented annually at a scholarship event for Sumner County students, highlights faith-driven leadership and service in our community—values that Mary Anne has lived out with extraordinary compassion and impact.

Mary Anne has dedicated her life to serving individuals living with dementia-related illnesses and their families through Veranda Ministries. Her faith-based respite program provides not only practical support but also spiritual encouragement, helping caregivers find hope and healing in their journey.

This well-deserved honor reflects a life truly lived in service to others. The Strong and Courageous Award has previously recognized leaders like Congressman Diane & Dr. David Black, Rev. Doug & Linda Varnado, and Rev. Jerry Moll. Now, Mary Anne joins this inspiring group of community trailblazers from Tennessee.

The 2026 Strong and Courageous Banquet was held on May 12, 2026  in Celorio Hall on the campus of Welch College. Each year, the event raises vital funds for student scholarships, having generated over $325,000 to date.

Mary Anne’s work through Veranda Ministries is a powerful reminder of how one person’s calling, fueled by faith and expertise, can transform lives. Her legacy of care, advocacy, and spiritual resilience continues to inspire us all.

For more information about the Strong and Courageous Award, visit the Welch College website. https://welch.edu/give/strong-and-courageous/

The 114th Tennessee General Assembly concluded its 2026 legislative session with significant progress for families caring for aging adults and individuals with disabilities. Among the most notable achievements was the passage of SB1581/HB1495, legislation designed to expand access to community-based respite care programs across the state. The bill broadens exemptions for smaller church-operated respite programs, increasing the number of participants that may be served at one time from 15 to 20 individuals and raising the allowable weekly participation hours from 12 to 16 per person. The measure was approved by the legislature and sent to the governor, marking an important step toward increasing care capacity for Tennessee families.

Another important advancement came through HB0712, which directs the Tennessee Department of Disability and Aging to develop guidelines that make it easier for qualified family members to be hired as paid caregivers. The legislation recognizes the critical role family caregivers play in supporting loved ones and seeks to reduce barriers that often prevent relatives from receiving compensation for the care they already provide. Together, these measures reflect a growing commitment by Tennessee lawmakers to strengthen support systems for caregivers while helping individuals remain in their homes and communities.

A key advocate behind the respite care expansion was Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly, co-founder of Veranda Ministries and a respected leader in dementia care services. Oglesby-Sutherly worked diligently with legislators, caregivers, and community organizations to advance the legislation and highlight the increasing need for respite services throughout the state. Tennessee's efforts align with broader national initiatives, including increased federal funding for the Lifespan Respite Care Program, which received $11 million for Fiscal Year 2026. These combined state and federal actions represent meaningful progress for caregivers and families seeking support while caring for loved ones.