As the leaves change and the air grows crisp, it’s the perfect time for seniors and caregivers to come together and give back.
Join us at The Kensington Falls Church this November for a heartwarming gratitude and community spirit celebration at our annual Friendsgiving event.
On Nov. 26th, we’ll gather to “Stuff the Truck” with donations that will make a real difference. From household essentials to gift cards, your contributions will help the local charity Homestretch provide much-needed support to those working towards self-sufficiency.
If you’re looking for community projects for your senior loved one, Friendsgiving is the perfect opportunity to get involved.
As a token of our gratitude, donors will receive a delicious pumpkin cheesecake to take home—perfect for your holiday celebrations.
Our promise is to love and care for your family as we do our own.
The impact of your donations on Homestretch
The Kensington Falls Church proudly supports Homestretch, a nonprofit in our community dedicated to empowering homeless families in Falls Church, Virginia.
Since 1990, Homestretch has offered shelter and equipped families with the tools for lasting self-sufficiency.
Participating in our Friendsgiving event and donating essential items will help these families with the resources they need to overcome homelessness and rebuild their lives.
Join us in making a significant difference—every contribution brings a family closer to stability and independence. Let’s make real change together for our community!
How to support our Friendsgiving efforts
Supporting our Friendsgiving efforts is a wonderful way to give back and share in the season’s spirit.
Here’s how you can help make a difference:
What to Donate
We’re collecting various items to aid families in their journey toward independence.
- Gift cards: Grocery stores (Aldi, Lidl, Giant, Safeway), clothing stores, and Target.
- General household/cleaning supplies: Mops, buckets, brooms, dustpans, vacuum cleaners, laundry baskets, and cleaning agents like disinfectant wipes and glass cleaners.
- Linens (new only): Twin and queen sheet sets, comforters, fitted crib sheets, pillows, and bath linens, including towels and mats.
- Kitchen essentials: Trash cans, trash bags, pots and pans sets, flatware, dishware sets, and kitchen utensils like measuring cups and cutting boards.
- Bathroom necessities: Toilet paper, shower liners, bathmats, and cleaning products.
Where and When to Drop Off: You can bring your donations to The Kensington Falls Church throughout November, with a special collection day on Nov. 26. Drop off your items at our main entrance, where our team will be ready to assist you.
Community projects for seniors: How to give back
If you and your loved ones want to stay active and give back, there are plenty of heartwarming ways.
Here are some ideas that make a big impact and connect you with others who care just as much about our community.
Help out at local shelters or food banks
Dedicating time to local shelters or food banks offers invaluable assistance to those facing hard times.
By sorting donations, preparing meals, or simply lending a listening ear, you can make a meaningful difference in someone’s life.
Join efforts with national charities
- Meals on Wheels: Deliver meals and smiles to those who are homebound.
- Habitat for Humanity: Help build homes for families needing affordable housing.
- AmeriCorps Seniors: Connect with programs that leverage your experience to strengthen communities.
- National Park Service: Contribute to the upkeep and visitor services at national parks.
- Feeding America: Assist in efforts to combat hunger by working at food banks coordinated by this organization.
- American Red Cross: Volunteers can help with disaster response, blood drives, and other emergency relief efforts.
- The Salvation Army: Opportunities include helping in thrift stores, serving in soup kitchens, and participating in seasonal drives.
- United Way: Engage in various local initiatives that address education, financial stability, and health.
- AARP Foundation: Get involved in programs that support the well-being of older adults through advocacy, service, and information dissemination. Learn more about AARP’s “Staying Sharp” program.
- Canine Companions for Independence: Assist in raising puppies to become service dogs for people with disabilities.
- Note: At The Kensington Falls Church, pets are always welcome!
Get your hands dirty with community gardening
Community gardens are a fantastic way to engage with nature and neighbors.
These projects beautify neighborhoods and produce fresh produce that can be shared with local food banks. Check out the Falls Church Garden Club for more information.
Share your wisdom through tutoring or mentoring
Use your expertise to guide the younger generation. Whether you help students with their academics or offer career advice, your knowledge is a priceless gift to the future.
Craft and donate
Handcrafted blankets, scarves, and mittens can provide warmth and comfort to those in hospitals or on the streets. Consider knitting or sewing these items as part of group activities in community centers.
Participate in fundraising walks or charity runs
These events focus on raising awareness and support for senior health issues. They’re a great way to stay active while supporting causes that matter to you.
Lead workshops or classes
If you have skills in areas like woodworking, cooking, or painting, why not lead workshops at your local senior center? This is a fun way to engage with peers and pass on your passion.
Volunteer for administrative roles
Many charities and nonprofits need help behind the scenes. If you’re good with computers, phones, or clerical work, your skills can help organizations operate more efficiently.
Assist at veteran centers
Many veteran centers welcome volunteers to help organize events, provide companionship, or assist with daily activities. Your presence can comfort veterans.
Participate in library programs
Libraries often run programs that benefit from volunteers to help with reading sessions for children, assist in organizing community events, or even run classes on using technology.
Support local arts
Volunteer at local theater productions, community concerts, or dance recitals. Behind-the-scenes support or even roles in productions can be fulfilling ways to engage with the arts.
The Kensington Falls Church’s community projects for seniors
At The Kensington Falls Church, we take pride in offering a full spectrum of care through our assisted living and memory care services.
Our senior living community is not just about supporting our residents but also about extending our support to the local community.
Through events like our annual Friendsgiving, we actively contribute to local causes such as Homestretch, demonstrating our commitment to giving back.
Join us to see how we embody Our Promise to love and care for your family as we do our own.
Contact The Kensinigton Falls Church to discover more about our community and how to volunteer with us.