Still Hopes Named One of the 17 Best Nursing Homes in South Carolina
July 24, 2026
South Carolina's population is aging fast — the median age jumped from around 36 in 2010 to 40 in 2020, and by 2034 older adults could outnumber children nationwide for the first time in U.S. history. Against that backdrop, U.S. News & World Report released its latest nursing home rankings, and Still Hopes Episcopal Retirement Community made the cut.Hot Points:A five-star distinction. Out of 188 nursing homes evaluated across South Carolina, only 17 earned a perfect overall rating of five out of five — and Still Hopes is one of them. High performing where it counts. To earn the ranking, a facility must be "high performing" in short-term rehabilitation, long-term care, or both — meaning real, measurable quality of care.A trusted nonprofit choice. As a nonprofit, church-affiliated community offering continuing care, Still Hopes stands out among a list dominated by larger corporate and for-profit operators. Read the full ranking in the state
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SCETV Spotlights Aging & Caregiving — Featuring Still Hopes Leadership
South Carolina's aging story made statewide TV. SCETVs investigative series IMPACT South Carolina released a new episode, "The Silver Tsunami," examining how South Carolinians are preparing — or not — for a historic demographic shift: by 2030, older adults will outnumber children for the first time ever. The episode was followed by a live taping of Palmetto Perspectives, "Parenting Our Parents," featuring former Still Hopes CEO Danny Sanford.Hot Points:A statewide lens on a personal issue. The episode dives into housing, healthcare, finances, legal planning, and caregiving — the full picture of what aging well requires.Real stories, real communities. Producers visited senior centers and retirement communities across South Carolina, including voices from Still Hopes leadership, to show what aging with dignity can look like.A conversation for every family. The companion Palmetto Perspectives episode brought caregiving professionals and family advocates together to talk openly about planning ahead — a topic that touches nearly every household. Watch the full SCETV feature
Still Hopes CEO Starts the Conversation, and Points the Way Forward, on Senior Living
Roughly 12,000 Americans turn 65 every day, and by 2030 every Baby Boomer will be 65 or older. In a national Newsweek essay, Donald Lilly, President and CEO of Still Hopes Episcopal Retirement Community, explains why senior living has to evolve now — not later — to meet the coming wave of demand.Hot Points:"It's not just housing anymore." Lilly says today's older adults want wellness, experience, and meaningful connection — and communities that don't adapt risk becoming obsolete.A new definition of success. Still Hopes is investing in programming that builds physical, cognitive, nutritional, and social wellness before residents ever need higher levels of care — helping people stay independent longer. Thinking beyond the campus. As a nonprofit, Still Hopes is pursuing new partnerships and service models to reach older adults who may never move onto a physical campus but still deserve support and connection."Senior living should never be the place where life gets smaller. It should be a place where people continue to live fully, stay connected, and thrive." — Donald Lilly, CEO Read the full Newsweek feature
Resident Recipes: Best-Ever Banana Split Dessert
We all have that family recipe that makes our mouths start to water just thinking about it. There’s nothing like getting together with friends or family to share a tasty treat and make memories at the kitchen table. Whether you're making a dessert the night before a big event or sharing recipes with loved ones in your life, this Banana Split Dessert is perfect.This recipe is easy to make, doesn’t require any baking, and tastes delicious! With a graham cracker crust and a sweet and creamy filling, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to customize as well, just add your favorite toppings like chocolate syrup, strawberries, pecans, or sprinkles, or even a few candles for a birthday celebration. Good desserts remind us of laughter, of celebration, and of sharing a slice after dinner at Nana's house. From pies and chess squares to ice cream sundaes, trying out new recipes with family is one of the best ways to connect, and this Best Ever Banana Split Dessert is perfect for sharing with loved ones. So get together with your kids, grandkids, bible study, or anyone with a sweet tooth, and enjoy this Best-Ever Banana Split Dessert!A special shout-out to Ruth Marcus and her family for submitting this recipe.
Resident Recipes: Watermelon Salad
As warmer weather is upon us, it’s time to beat the heat with refreshing recipes like this watermelon salad! Whether you are planning a summer brunch, enjoying lunch with family and friends, or bringing a dish to dinner, this recipe is simple and delicious. Another plus, this recipe is a great source of healthy fats, keeping you full for longer and supporting heart health. With Vitamins C, A, B6, potassium, and magnesium, watermelon salad is an excellent healthy choice for older adults looking to combat dehydration and fight muscle loss. Calcium and Vitamin K also help maintain bone density so you can stay strong!With only 5 steps, you can make a perfect salad to impress your guests! A refreshing watermelon salad is the perfect picnic or potluck dish on its own or paired with a glazed grilled chicken or crispy salmon bites for some extra protein! The melon is a lovely foil for the salty feta, spicy onion, and tart vinegar. A big thank you to resident Liz Wheeler for this delicious recipe we’ll all be enjoying this summer!
Our 20-Acre Backyard: Explore the Perpetual Forest Trail
Step outside and discover something a little unexpected. At Still Hopes, “the backyard” is more than just a view. It’s 20 acres of natural beauty ready for you to explore, unwind, and enjoy.At the heart of it all is the Perpetual Forest, a special space with a meaningful story. This land was gifted by Dr. Jane Bruce Guignard with the intention that it would always remain a green, peaceful place for future generations. Today, it continues to do just that.A Trail Designed for EveryoneTucked within the forest, the Perpetual Forest Trail is the perfect place to take a walk, get some fresh air, or simply slow down for a bit. You’ll find sunlight filtering through the trees, birds in the background, and plenty of quiet moments along the way.The paved path makes it easy for everyone to enjoy, no matter your mobility level. Along the way, you’ll also find simple, man powered exercise and stretching stations that make it easy to stay active while enjoying the surroundings.Wellness in Every StepWellness at Still Hopes is about more than just staying active. It’s about feeling your best in ways that are simple and natural. The Perpetual Forest Trail makes that easy.Whether it’s a morning walk, an afternoon reset, or a relaxed stroll with a friend, it’s a chance to move, breathe, and recharge. For many residents, it becomes part of the rhythm of the day, a go-to way to clear your mind and enjoy the moment.Preserving and Growing the ForestThere’s a lot that goes on behind the scenes to keep the Perpetual Forest looking and feeling its best. Over the years, our Environment and Grounds Committee and landscaping team have worked to restore native plants and protect local habitats, including the ground nesting bees near the pond.More recently, a grant helped bring even more life to the forest with the addition of over 200 native trees and plants. You’ll spot favorites like dogwoods, redbuds, magnolias, and azaleas, all chosen to fit naturally into the landscape.Today, those additions are part of what makes the trail so enjoyable year round. From seasonal blooms to touches of honeysuckle and blueberry bushes, there’s always something new to notice. It’s a space that continues to grow and change, while still feeling like the peaceful, familiar place people love. (function() { document.querySelectorAll('[data-gallery-thumb]').forEach(function(thumb) { thumb.addEventListener('click', function() { var index = this.getAttribute('data-gallery-thumb'); var gallery = this.closest('.vizy-image-gallery'); // Update main images gallery.querySelectorAll('.gallery-main-image').forEach(function(img) { img.classList.remove('active'); if (img.getAttribute('data-gallery-image') === index) { img.classList.add('active'); } }); // Update thumbnail borders gallery.querySelectorAll('.gallery-thumbnail').forEach(function(t) { t.classList.remove('border-emerald'); t.classList.add('border-transparent'); }); this.classList.remove('border-transparent'); this.classList.add('border-emerald'); }); }); })(); .gallery-main-image { display: none; position: absolute; inset: 0; } .gallery-main-image.active { display: block; } .gallery-thumbnails { scrollbar-width: thin; scrollbar-color: #897F6E #E5E1D8; } .gallery-thumbnails::-webkit-scrollbar { height: 6px; } .gallery-thumbnails::-webkit-scrollbar-track { background: #E5E1D8; border-radius: 3px; } .gallery-thumbnails::-webkit-scrollbar-thumb { background: #897F6E; border-radius: 3px; } .gallery-thumbnails::-webkit-scrollbar-thumb:hover { background: #2D4453; } A Place to ConnectAt Still Hopes, the Perpetual Forest Trail is more than a scenic walk. It is a place for reflection, movement, and connection, and a natural extension of life engagement here on campus. Whether it’s part of your daily routine or an occasional escape, the trail creates opportunities to connect with others, enjoy the outdoors, and take time for yourself.These simple moments, walking with a neighbor, sharing a conversation, or pausing to take in the surroundings, are what life engagement is all about. It’s about staying active, involved, and connected in ways that feel meaningful to you.It’s a space shared by residents and team members alike, reflecting the sense of community that makes Still Hopes unique—where everyone has the opportunity to step outside, recharge, and feel connected.It’s a reminder that connection, movement, and time outdoors don’t have to be planned. They’re already here, woven into everyday life at Still Hopes.
Spring Cleaning You Don't Have to Do: The Maintenance-Free Lifestyle
Spring should feel light and refreshing. So why does it so often come with a long list of chores, heavy lifting, and home projects that take the joy out of the season?From deep cleaning and yard work to ongoing home upkeep, spring can quickly shift from a fresh start into a demanding checklist. It becomes less about enjoying the season and more about keeping up with everything your home requires.But what if this season felt different?At Still Hopes, spring is not something you manage. It is something you experience. With maintenance-free living, the focus shifts away from chores and back to what matters, your energy, your routine, and the moments that make each day feel full.The Reality of Home Maintenance Over TimeWhat once felt like a productive weekend can start to feel like a full-time responsibility. As time goes on, the physical demands of maintaining a home can become more noticeable. Tasks like scrubbing floors, reaching high shelves, carrying laundry, or keeping up with yard work require more energy and effort than they used to. What was once routine can begin to feel exhausting.Beyond the physical side, there is also time commitment. Spring cleaning is not just one task. It is a collection of responsibilities that can take days or even weeks to complete. Instead of enjoying the season, many people find themselves working through it.There are also real safety concerns to consider. Climbing ladders, lifting heavy items, or even navigating tight spaces can increase the risk of injury. These are not just inconveniences. They are important factors that can impact long-term well-being.At a certain point, it becomes worth asking a simple question. Should your energy be spent maintaining a home, or simply living your life?What “Maintenance-Free Living” Really MeansMaintenance-free living is not simply about having fewer responsibilities. It is about stepping into a lifestyle where everything is thoughtfully taken care of, with attention to comfort and detail.The demands of homeownership begin to fade into the background. There is no need to plan your days around cleaning, keep up with yard work, or worry about ongoing repairs. Every detail is handled with intention, allowing your home to feel effortless and refined.What takes its place is a greater sense of ease. Your routine feels more open, no longer shaped by obligations that demand your attention. There is comfort in knowing that your environment is consistently cared for, and a quiet confidence that everything is exactly as it should be.Instead of focusing on what needs attention, you are free to focus on what brings you joy, fulfillment, and connection each day. (function() { document.querySelectorAll('[data-gallery-thumb]').forEach(function(thumb) { thumb.addEventListener('click', function() { var index = this.getAttribute('data-gallery-thumb'); var gallery = this.closest('.vizy-image-gallery'); // Update main images gallery.querySelectorAll('.gallery-main-image').forEach(function(img) { img.classList.remove('active'); if (img.getAttribute('data-gallery-image') === index) { img.classList.add('active'); } }); // Update thumbnail borders gallery.querySelectorAll('.gallery-thumbnail').forEach(function(t) { t.classList.remove('border-emerald'); t.classList.add('border-transparent'); }); this.classList.remove('border-transparent'); this.classList.add('border-emerald'); }); }); })(); .gallery-main-image { display: none; position: absolute; inset: 0; } .gallery-main-image.active { display: block; } .gallery-thumbnails { scrollbar-width: thin; scrollbar-color: #897F6E #E5E1D8; } .gallery-thumbnails::-webkit-scrollbar { height: 6px; } .gallery-thumbnails::-webkit-scrollbar-track { background: #E5E1D8; border-radius: 3px; } .gallery-thumbnails::-webkit-scrollbar-thumb { background: #897F6E; border-radius: 3px; } .gallery-thumbnails::-webkit-scrollbar-thumb:hover { background: #2D4453; } What You Don’t Have to Do at Still HopesAt Still Hopes, maintenance-free living is part of everyday life. Instead of spending your time on chores and upkeep, you are free to focus on connection, relaxation, and enjoying each day.Here is what you can leave behind:No Housekeeping StressEnjoy a consistently clean, comfortable home with regular housekeeping included, plus freshly laundered bed and bath linens handled for you. No Yard Work or Outdoor MaintenanceFrom landscaping to seasonal upkeep, everything outside your door is taken care of, no mowing, raking, or weekend projects required.No Home Repairs or UpkeepA dedicated maintenance team handles repairs and home needs, so you never have to coordinate vendors or fix things yourself.What You Get Instead: A Life You EnjoyWhen daily responsibilities are taken care of, something more meaningful takes their place. At Still Hopes, your days are no longer shaped by chores, but by choice. With fewer tasks to manage, you have more room for what you enjoy. That might mean attending social events, participating in wellness programs, picking up a hobby, or simply enjoying a quiet morning at your own pace. Our community offers opportunities to stay active and engaged while also giving you the space to slow down when you want to.Connection becomes part of everyday life. Whether it is through shared activities or casual moments with neighbors, relationships form naturally and create a strong sense of belonging.Just as important is the ability to choose how you spend your day. You can fill your schedule or leave it open. You can be social or enjoy time to yourself. The flexibility is yours.The result is simple. More freedom, more ease, and a way of living that feels more like your own. Your days are yours to shape. (function() { document.querySelectorAll('[data-gallery-thumb]').forEach(function(thumb) { thumb.addEventListener('click', function() { var index = this.getAttribute('data-gallery-thumb'); var gallery = this.closest('.vizy-image-gallery'); // Update main images gallery.querySelectorAll('.gallery-main-image').forEach(function(img) { img.classList.remove('active'); if (img.getAttribute('data-gallery-image') === index) { img.classList.add('active'); } }); // Update thumbnail borders gallery.querySelectorAll('.gallery-thumbnail').forEach(function(t) { t.classList.remove('border-emerald'); t.classList.add('border-transparent'); }); this.classList.remove('border-transparent'); this.classList.add('border-emerald'); }); }); })(); .gallery-main-image { display: none; position: absolute; inset: 0; } .gallery-main-image.active { display: block; } .gallery-thumbnails { scrollbar-width: thin; scrollbar-color: #897F6E #E5E1D8; } .gallery-thumbnails::-webkit-scrollbar { height: 6px; } .gallery-thumbnails::-webkit-scrollbar-track { background: #E5E1D8; border-radius: 3px; } .gallery-thumbnails::-webkit-scrollbar-thumb { background: #897F6E; border-radius: 3px; } .gallery-thumbnails::-webkit-scrollbar-thumb:hover { background: #2D4453; } Take the Next StepThis spring, imagine a life with fewer responsibilities and more time for the things you enjoy. A life where your days feel lighter, your schedule feels more open, and your home supports the way you want to live.If this feels like the kind of lifestyle you have been looking for, we invite you to take a closer look at Still Hopes.Get in touch to explore if Still Hopes is the right fit for you. Or schedule a tour and experience maintenance-free living for yourself.
Rightsizing Your Life: Is a Concierge Suite the Best Kept Secret in Columbia?
What if the next chapter of your life felt lighter, not smaller?Rightsizing your life isn’t about giving something up. It’s about gaining something better.For many older adults, there comes a point when home begins to feel like more responsibility than freedom. The upkeep. The maintenance. The extra space that no longer serves a purpose. What once felt comfortable can begin to feel overwhelming.At the same time, traditional downsizing options do not always solve the challenges people are trying to address. Moving to a smaller home may reduce square footage, but it does not always simplify life in the ways that matter.So what comes next?For those exploring a Continuing Care Retirement Community, our Concierge Suites offer a unique style of living that brings together independence, ease, and connection.It may not be the first option people think of, but for many, it becomes the one that simply feels right.What Does It Mean to Rightsize?Rightsizing is about aligning your home with your lifestyle.Instead of focusing on what you may be leaving behind, it is about choosing what truly supports your day-to-day life. Less to manage can create more freedom, and the right environment can bring a greater sense of ease.A Different Kind of Living OptionAt Still Hopes Episcopal Retirement Community, the Concierge Suites offer a more thoughtful approach to living within a Continuing Care Retirement Community.Located in the historic Guignard Mansion, these suites provide a unique style of living centered on comfort, simplicity, and connection. It is a suite where independence is respected, with support available when it's needed.Designed for Simplicity and SupportConcierge living is designed to streamline everyday life.Residents enjoy three meals a day, a maintenance-free environment, and a central location on campus. Additional services are available to enhance support when needed, creating a flexible lifestyle that adapts over time while maintaining independence.By removing many day-to-day responsibilities, this living experience allows more time to focus on what matters most. Is It the Right Fit?Choosing what comes next is a personal decision, and it should feel that way. Concierge living offers a way to simplify daily life while staying connected to a vibrant community.Sometimes, the next step is not about doing more or less. It is about choosing an environment that fits your life today and gives you confidence in what comes next.Still exploring your options? Watch our short video to better understand the difference between Assisted Living and Concierge Suites. Watch here: What is the Difference Between Concierge and Assisted Living?
The Next Step: Understanding the Transition from Independent to a Care Setting
When “Independent” Begins to Feel DifferentFor many families, the transition from independent living to a care setting does not begin with a single moment. Instead, it often unfolds gradually through small changes that suggest daily life may be becoming more challenging. Tasks that once felt routine may require more time or effort. Managing medications may start to feel more complex. Safety concerns, such as increased fall risk or moments of forgetfulness, may begin to surface. These shifts are often subtle at first, but together they can signal that additional support could be helpful.Recognizing these changes early allows individuals and families to plan thoughtfully rather than respond in the midst of a crisis. Conversations can happen with greater clarity, and decisions can be made with care and preparation.When these changes begin to appear, families often start exploring what the next level of support might look like and how it can help preserve comfort, safety, and overall well-being.Is it time to get help? Take our assessment. What a Care Setting Really MeansIt’s important to understand that a care setting is not one-size-fits-all. Within a CCRC (Continuing Care Retirement Community) such as Still Hopes, care is designed to adapt to individual needs rather than replace independence. For some, this may mean Assisted Living, where support with daily activities is available while personal routines and decision-making remain respected. For others, it may include Memory Care, which offers specialized support in a secure and compassionate environment. Rehabilitation services provide short-term recovery after illness, injury, or hospitalization, while Skilled Nursing offers long-term clinical care for individuals who require ongoing medical support.The purpose of these options is not to take over someone’s life, but to provide the right level of support at the right time so individuals can continue living with independence, security, and peace of mind.The Benefit of Staying in One CommunityOne of the greatest advantages of a continuing care retirement community is the ability to remain in a place that already feels like home. Within a continuing care model such as Still Hopes, residents do not have to leave the community they know as their needs change. Instead, care adapts around them.Familiar surroundings can make transitions feel less overwhelming. While some daily routines or spaces may change as care needs evolve, the broader community remains recognizable. Residents continue to see familiar faces, walk the same campus paths, and remain connected to the place they already call home.Existing friendships remain intact. Relationships built over shared meals, worship services, classes, and events continue. Residents are not starting over socially. They remain part of the same larger community, even if their level of support changes.Care teams already know the resident. Team members understand personal preferences, routines, and health history, creating continuity that builds trust. Rather than navigating an entirely new environment, individuals experience a gradual and supported transition as their needs shift.Navigating the Transition with ConfidenceTransitions feel easier when families have guidance. The process begins with thoughtful assessments and open conversations to understand current needs and determine the right level of support.Family involvement brings clarity and reassurance, ensuring decisions reflect shared values. Preparation is both emotional and practical, and having a trusted team to guide logistics and answer questions helps ease uncertainty.Many individuals ask, “Will I lose my independence?” In reality, care is designed to protect independence, not remove it. Support is personalized so residents maintain choice and control in their daily lives.Others wonder, “What if I am not ready?” Planning ahead simply creates options. It allows families to move forward thoughtfully rather than react during a crisis.Choosing additional care is not stepping back. It is proactive planning rooted in wisdom and confidence.A New Chapter, Not the End of OneLife does not pause when care needs change. It remains active, meaningful, and connected.Social events, spiritual life, and wellness programs continue to play an important role each day. Community friendships stay strong, faith remains central for many, and opportunities to stay engaged and active are always present.Care enhances safety while still preserving independence and purpose. It offers reassurance without taking away identity.Choosing additional support is not stepping back. It is stepping forward with intention, prioritizing health, comfort, and quality of life in this next chapter.
A Lifetime of Lessons in Heart Health
A lifetime in emergency medicine has given Dr. Bob Malanuk a unique perspective on heart health. Now a Still Hopes resident and former Director of Emergency Services, he has also faced his own journey with two stents and quadruple bypass.His advice is simple but powerful: “Your heart is what you eat and how you live.”Decades of experience have shaped the lessons he shares about protecting your heart. Rethinking the Modern DietDr. Malanuk believes one of the greatest challenges to heart health today is the modern diet. Ultra-processed foods often no longer resemble their original form. They are enhanced, preserved, colored, and engineered to last longer and taste better.These products commonly contain added sugars, preservatives, artificial colors, flavor enhancers such as MSG, and chemicals designed to extend shelf life. While convenient and appealing, they frequently come at a cost to long-term health.He encourages people to turn packages over and read the ingredient list carefully. A simple guideline he shares is this: if there are more than five ingredients listed, it may be worth reconsidering.Ultra-processed foods are typically high in saturated fats, sodium, and sugar. Over time, this combination can raise blood pressure, increase cholesterol levels, stiffen blood vessels, and significantly increase the risk of heart disease.Protecting the heart often begins with something simple: paying closer attention to what goes into your body each day.The Slow Build of Heart DiseaseOne of the most common misconceptions about heart disease is that it happens suddenly. While a heart attack may feel abrupt, the underlying damage usually develops gradually over many years.Dr. Malanuk explains that heart disease is rarely the result of a single event. It is shaped by long-term patterns. Smoking damages blood vessels and accelerates plaque buildup. Poor dietary habits contribute to elevated cholesterol and stiffening arteries. Physical inactivity weakens the cardiovascular system, reducing the heart’s strength and resilience over time.Maintaining a healthy weight and keeping blood pressure under control are equally important. Elevated blood pressure silently strains blood vessels day after day, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.The real danger is not dramatic. It is cumulative.Blood Pressure: The Quiet Risk FactorBlood pressure remains one of the most important and most overlooked components of heart health. Dr. Malanuk describes it as a silent driver of cardiovascular disease, particularly as we age. Over the age of 65, approximately 75 percent of adults have hypertension, often without noticeable symptoms.An ideal reading is around 120 over 80. When numbers consistently reach 130 or higher, treatment is often recommended to prevent long-term vessel damage.He also points to national data showing that nearly a quarter of patients stop taking their blood pressure medication within a year. That statistic is concerning, because discontinuing treatment can quietly undo years of protection and significantly increase the risk of heart attack or stroke.For Dr. Malanuk, understanding medications is key. Blood pressure treatments and cholesterol-lowering medications such as statins play an important role in reducing overall cardiac risk. When taken appropriately and consistently, they save lives.The Power of Everyday HabitsThe most meaningful heart-protective behaviors are rarely dramatic. They are steady.Dr. Malanuk emphasizes daily movement, whether that means walking, engaging in regular physical activity, or simply remaining physically and mentally active. Exercise does not need to be intense to be beneficial. Even gentle activity strengthens the heart and improves circulation.He also underscores the importance of sleep and stress management. Eight to nine hours of quality sleep allows the body to recover and regulate blood pressure. Managing stress is just as essential. He personally chose early retirement as a way to reduce stress and protect his long-term health.“Limit your responsibilities. Be organized. Get enough sleep,” he advises.Even low-impact options, such as walking in a pool where buoyancy reduces strain on joints, can make a meaningful difference. What matters most is staying engaged and consistent.Heart health is built in ordinary routines.Reflections on a Healthy HeartMost heart emergencies do not begin in the emergency room. They begin years earlier in everyday decisions.Dr. Malanuk believes the strongest protection does not come from dramatic interventions, but from steady, intentional living. The foods you choose, the stress you manage, the sleep you prioritize, the medications you take, and the steps you walk each day all contribute to your long-term health.Protecting your heart is not complicated, but it does require awareness and commitment.And as he reminds us, it is never too early or too late to begin.
A family favorite, year after year.
If you’ve ever found yourself trying to win over a picky eater at the Thanksgiving table, you’re not alone. Barbara, one of our residents here at Still Hopes, faced that exact challenge years ago when her grandkids, then just six and four, came up to the family home in the mountains for their first Thanksgiving. Like any good grandmother, she knew the secret weapon: fruit, sugar, and a little bit of nostalgia.She remembered a dish from her church in Cullowhee, North Carolina. The youth group there used to serve a warm, fruit-filled casserole at brunch fundraisers after Sunday services. She called another mom from that group to track it down. The original recipe was long gone, but luckily, the friend had another version to share. Barbara gave it a try.That was the first Thanksgiving she made cranberry apple casserole. Her grandson Quinn was six then. Now he’s a sophomore at Clemson, and every year since, this dish has had a place on the Thanksgiving table. Even during COVID, when the family had to hand dinner over the porch railing of his apartment, the casserole still made the trip.This week, I had the absolute pleasure of joining Barbara in her apartment as her Sous Chef...though I really only peeled and cored a few apples. I was locked in as an observer of the magic at work! After hoodwinking her into making her specialty a few weeks earlier than normal, I assured her the deliciousness would not go to waste. Armed with her casserole and the cutest carrying basket you've ever seen, I began to parade the staff halls offering scoops of still-warm fruity goodness. I didn’t even make it five minutes before the dish was scraped clean and people were asking for the recipe. So, in the spirit of sharing, here’s Barbara’s cranberry apple casserole. It’s one of those dishes that feels like it’s always been part of the holiday, even the first time you make it.Barbara’s Cranberry Apple CasseroleIngredientsFruit base:12 oz fresh cranberries1 to 1½ cups sugar (Barbara uses 1 cup, and I felt it was PERFECTLY balanced)6–8 Granny Smith apples, cored and thick-sliced5 tablespoons cornstarchA splash of bourbon (optional, but highly recommended if no one at the table is under ten)Topping:1 cup old-fashioned oats1 cup sugar1 cup chopped pecans¼ cup flour1 stick butter, melted1 tablespoon vanilla extractInstructionsPreheat oven to 350°F. Spray a 13x9 glass baking dish with non-stick spray.Spread cranberries evenly in the dish.In a bowl, mix the cornstarch and sugar. Pour over the cranberries and stir gently to coat.Arrange apple slices on top of the cranberries. You can line them up neatly or go a little rustic. Either way works.Pour the bourbon over the apples as evenly as possible.In another bowl, mix all the topping ingredients until everything is well combined and the butter coats the dry ingredients.Spoon the topping evenly over the apples.Bake uncovered for 1 hour and 20 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling around the edges.Let it cool a little before serving. Or just grab a spoon and go in. Your call.Make-Ahead Tip: You can prep the whole thing a day ahead. Just cover it, refrigerate, and bake it the next day when you’re ready.
Prepping for Hundreds of Thanksgiving Guests
How many people are normally at your Thanksgiving gatherings? A close handful of loved ones? A larger group of extended family and friends? Well what if you were having close to 500 people over for Thanksgiving? That is a mind boggling thought for most of us. However, for the Still Hopes Culinary staff, that is exactly what they plan to do here at our Retirement Community West Columbia, SC on Thanksgiving Day. We talked to Andy Marchant, Still Hopes' Director of Culinary Services, to see exactly what goes into preparing for such a busy day. How many people are we expecting for Thanksgiving here at Still Hopes? We are expecting to have 350 residents and their guests dine with us on Thanksgiving Day. We will also have 75 staff on hand and we will prepare 100 meals for our healthcare neighborhoods. How do you conceptualize the Thanksgiving meal? Do you stick with tried and true favorites or throw some new things in the mix? We do a little bit of both. We have the traditional favorites and some not so traditional favorites, like cranberry pecan salad and shrimp and grits. How far in advance do you plan the Thanksgiving meal? We start planning for Thanksgiving about mid-October and our Chef finalizes the menu around November 1st. We also start taking Thanksgiving reservations for the Palmetto Dining Room on November 1st, which is our main dining room. How do you know how much food you will need? It is simple math. We estimate how many ounces of each item we think the guests and residents will enjoy. Let's look at sweet potato souffle, for example. We estimate each guest will eat about 3 ounces of sweet potato soufflé. So we take our total number of guests, which is 525, multiply that by 3 ounces and then divide by 16 (ounces in a pound) to find out how many pounds of food to prepare. In addition, we have a history of how much food we have prepared in the past. Chef Greg here at Still Hopes has been doing this for so long, it is almost surreal how close he gets to the right amount to prepare! He also knows that we will need more stuffing and gravy than Brussels sprouts! It is an art form to be sure! What is your favorite part about preparing a meal for so many people? This might sound corny, but for me it is like a concert at the symphony. You see every player doing their part – the front of the house staff taking reservations and spending time on the seating chart, to making sure that we do not have too many guests at a certain time and scheduling staffing with just the right amount of workers. Then, you see the Chef go over the menu, checking each detail so that nothing is missed. Next, the food and supplies start rolling in and the food prep begins! Like the orchestra musicians, each culinary staff has a vital part to play to make sure that the show goes off without a hitch. Then on the special day, it is “show” time! And when all of the preparation and practice is complete and all the players are in place and everything is ready for our guests…that is when I know that it’s going to be a great “show” and our guests will be happy with what we have prepared for them. When each player is contributing and on the same page, to me, it is like beautiful music! That is my favorite part. What tends to be the most popular item/couple of items? Hands down, the traditional Thanksgiving favorites are dressing and gravy, roasted turkey with cranberry sauce, and macaroni and cheese. Some things you just do not need to mess with. Thank you for taking the time to peek into what goes on at Still Hopes during the holidays. We hope you and your loved ones have a blessed Thanksgiving.