In a world where generations move to different rhythms, different schedules, different playlists, and different seasons of life, something special happens inside our communities. They sit at the same table.
At Edgewood, volunteering doesn’t belong to one age group. It belongs to everyone.
“Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they have the heart.” — Elizabeth Andrew
April is National Volunteer Month, and a good reminder that some of the best work happening in our communities is done by people who don’t have to be here. Our volunteers chose to show up. Whether they are a high school student, a retired teacher, or a family member spending time alongside their loved one, each one makes our community stronger.
Teen volunteers bring a spark into the room—laughter that’s a little louder, questions that are curious and unfiltered, patient help with technology, and fresh reminders of youth and possibility. For them, they aren’t just giving—they’re growing, learning, and leaving a little magic behind.
Residents light up when they see young faces. They aren’t polished. They aren’t rehearsed. They’ll tell you, a teen’s enthusiasm is contagious.
Families who volunteer together bring something unique. They bring shared purpose.
It might look like a parent and child setting up for an activity, a grandparent introducing their grandchild to a resident, or siblings delivering holiday treats. But it’s never just about helping. It’s about modeling what community looks like.
Families bring heart into the building, and they often leave with stories they’ll talk about long after the visit ends.
Volunteering doesn’t stop at the doors of our communities.
Many of our residents continue to give back in meaningful ways, knitting blankets for local shelters, organizing donation drives, mentoring young visitors, writing cards to service members, and supporting causes that have mattered to them for decades. They may have retired from careers, but they haven’t retired from purpose.
When residents volunteer, it reminds everyone around them that the desire to contribute doesn’t fade with age. Wisdom still has work to do. Compassion still has places to go.
April may be National Volunteer Month, but the impact of volunteering extends far beyond the calendar. When people choose to volunteer with our community, they often don’t know what to expect. Some come hoping to help, but leave having been touched in ways they never imagined. Many of our volunteers share that their time with residents is both fulfilling and eye-opening. Volunteers have the chance to connect directly with residents and can choose a role that matches their strengths and comfort level.
At Edgewood, we are grateful for every generation that chooses to show up, the teens discovering perspective, the families and friends modeling compassion, and our residents who continue to serve their communities in meaningful ways. That’s something worth celebrating!
To learn more about volunteering or exploring life at Edgewood, visit us at www.edgewoodhealthcare.com.
At 96, Pat LaPlante has a choir to direct, friendships to enjoy, and two Christmas performances to prepare for. Discover how life at Edgewood Hermantown gives her meaningful ways to stay involved, with support close by.
Penny is the neighbor who makes sure you have a seat at lunch. But getting herself back to the table took hard work. With on-site therapy at Edgewood Sioux Falls Prairie Crossings, she’s enjoying more independence, family outings, and birthday dinners worth saving room for.
Edgewood Hermantown has been named Best of the Best Senior Care Facility in the Northland. The community-voted recognition celebrates the dedicated team, meaningful relationships, and compassionate care that make Edgewood Hermantown a special place to call home.
A championship coach still has a team around him. Meet Joe Glenn and see how football, music and family continue to shape his days at Edgewood Eagle Island.
