ABODE Contemplative Care for the Dying

Background

ABODE Contemplative Care for the Dying is a nonprofit organization based in San Antonio, Texas, dedicated to providing compassionate, interfaith spiritual care in a contemplative environment for individuals in the final stages of life. Established in 2010 and granted tax-exempt status in 2011, ABODE offers its services at no charge, ensuring that those who are dying can leave this world with dignity and grace. The organization operates a three-bedroom home where guests reside in private rooms, each with an en-suite bathroom and access to a serene backyard. Since opening its doors in December 2014, ABODE has cared for more than 300 guests.

Key Strategic Focus

ABODE's strategic focus centers on providing end-of-life care to individuals who lack a place to live or someone to care for them during their final days. The organization collaborates with hospice agencies, hospitals, family members, doctors, and community members to receive referrals for guests in their last three months, weeks, or days of life. ABODE's well-trained staff and volunteers partner with hospice providers to deliver personal care, meals, and support, emphasizing contemplative, focused, and unhurried personal care. Additionally, ABODE offers a robust community education program, teaching the art of contemplative living and dying.

Financials and Funding

ABODE operates entirely on donations and grants, providing its services at no cost to guests. The organization's financials for recent years are as follows:

2023: Revenue of $704,579; Expenses of $532,162; Net Assets of $1,034,605.

2022: Revenue of $567,919; Expenses of $444,399; Net Assets of $861,728.

2021: Revenue of $467,872; Expenses of $382,559; Net Assets of $781,145.

The majority of ABODE's revenue comes from contributions, accounting for 99.8% in 2023. The organization maintains a high program expense ratio, with 83.33% of its expenses directed toward its core programs.

Leadership Team

ABODE's leadership team comprises dedicated professionals committed to the organization's mission:

Mary Thorsby: Executive Director, leading the organization since 2019.

Robert Soza, JD: President, providing strategic oversight and governance.

Beverly Tuomala, RN: Vice President, contributing her expertise in hospice care.

Carol Bertsch: Secretary, offering legal insights and support.

Charlie Watts, CFP, LUTCF: Treasurer, managing financial oversight.

Board Members: Including Peg Armstrong, MA; Lynnell Burkett; Kathryn Eggerss; Richard Ferguson, MD; Roxanna Gonzalez-Soza, JD; Karen Lugar; Rigo Montero; and Lynn Pérez, each bringing diverse skills and experiences to the organization.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The demand for end-of-life care services is significant, with over 1.4 million people requiring hospice care annually in the United States. Non-medical hospice facilities like ABODE play a crucial role in providing compassionate care to individuals who may not have access to traditional hospice services due to financial constraints or lack of caregivers.

Competitor Analysis

ABODE is one of two non-medical end-of-life facilities in Texas and one of 42 nationwide that cater to individuals without other caretakers and financial means. The only other facility in Texas is Aurora House in Weslaco. These facilities are part of the Omega Home Network, a group of non-medical hospice homes that do not charge for services.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

ABODE collaborates with various hospice agencies, hospitals, and community organizations to receive referrals and provide comprehensive care to its guests. The organization is a member of the Omega Home Network, which supports non-medical hospice homes nationwide.

Operational Insights

ABODE's unique approach to end-of-life care, emphasizing contemplative practices and providing services at no charge, sets it apart from traditional hospice facilities. The organization's reliance on donations and grants underscores the importance of community support in sustaining its mission.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

ABODE continues to expand its community education programs, teaching the art of contemplative living and dying. The organization has also initiated training programs for end-of-life doulas, extending its contemplative care approach to meet individuals where they are.