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Friends Fellowship Community recently celebrated National Volunteer Appreciation Week!
This special week was marked by a series of events designed to honor and appreciate the invaluable contributions of our resident volunteers. We kicked off the celebrations with a social gathering for our resident volunteers, where they were treated to an afternoon of camaraderie and recognition. During this social, we took the opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the dedication of our resident volunteers (and two adorable pups) who tirelessly serve on our resident committees, assist in our dining rooms, mend clothes, fold our monthly newsletter, and engage in numerous other activities that enrich our community.
FFC resident volunteers at the Volunteer Appreciation Social
Our Life Enhancement team played a pivotal role in making this event memorable by distributing recognition certificates and thoughtfully curated goody bags, while our Food Services team delighted everyone with an array of delicious treats that added a special touch to the occasion. And we didn’t forget our pup volunteers! They were treated to adorable bumble bee stuffies.
Marv Sager with Willow
A highlight of the week was the recognition of Sue Muckridge as Volunteer of the Year. Sue's commitment to Friends Fellowship Community is truly remarkable, as she actively participates in multiple committees, including the Christmas Fund Committee, Dietary Committee, Environmental Committee, Library Committee, Residents Association Executive Committee, and What’s Happening Folding Committee. Beyond her extensive involvement at Friends Fellowship Community, Sue also dedicates her time to volunteering at Reid Health and assists with the monthly bulletins at her church. Her recognition during the volunteer social was a testament to her unwavering dedication and impact. Sue graciously shared, “I have learned so much by volunteering! Serving on the Christmas Fund Committee has been rewarding and is a wonderful way to show our appreciation to the employees here at FFC.”
Sue Muckridge is recognized as the 2025 FFC Volunteer of the Year
In addition to the social, we hosted our 2nd Annual Senior Volunteer Expo, which was a great success. We were thrilled to welcome sixteen local organizations that showcased some of the incredible volunteering opportunities available within our community. Resident volunteer Judy Peacock played an important role by managing the registration table and distributing tote bags to attendees. The event included door prizes generously donated by the participating organizations, with the grand prize being a $100 VISA gift card.
FFC resident volunteer Judy Peacock welcomes attendees to the 2nd Annual Senior Volunteer Expo
This event was organized by our Community Outreach Department, and our Food Services team once again delighted attendees with gourmet cookies and refreshing lemonade. Karen Seal, Director of Communications & Community Outreach, expressed her enthusiasm by stating, "We are truly honored to have the opportunity to host such an impressive array of community organizations for the second consecutive year of this event. It is a testament to the vibrant spirit of collaboration and service that thrives within our community. There are so many incredible opportunities available for individuals to engage and make a meaningful impact, whether it's through volunteering their time, sharing their skills, or simply offering a helping hand. Each organization brings its unique mission and vision, providing a diverse range of avenues for community members to contribute and enrich the lives of others. We are excited to see the positive outcomes that will arise from these connections and collaborations."
2nd Annual Senior Volunteer Expo at FFC
The expo included an array of organizations, each bringing their unique opportunities for volunteers. These organizations included:
- Abilities Richmond
- Achieva Resources
- Boys & Girls Clubs of Wayne County
- Civic Hall Performing Arts Center
- Cope Environmental Center
- Hayes Arboretum
- Help the Animals
- Levi & Catharine Coffin State Historic Site
- LifeStream Services
- Model T Museum
- Old National Road Welcome Center
- Opening Minds through Art
- Reid Health Volunteer Services
- Richmond Parks and Recreation
- Richmond Senior Recreation Center
- Wayne County Community Organizations Active in Disaster
We are profoundly grateful for our volunteers and the countless hours they dedicate to making the lives of others better, embodying the spirit of community and service that defines Friends Fellowship Community. Celebrating our resident volunteers and community organizations during this special week was truly an honor.