Stories of Service: Making an Impact at The McKendree

Written by, Elijah lovelace

Student Volunteer

Last semester, I had the opportunity to serve at McKendree Village, a supportive senior living community. Many of the residents face serious health challenges and disabilities, and what we were able to offer over the course of eight weeks was simple yet meaningful: our time, attention, and care.

We spent hours playing games, exercising, and sitting in residents’ living spaces, talking with them and listening to their stories. The older generation is full of wisdom, experiences, and testimonies of God’s faithfulness. They are not people to forget, and in serving them, we are reminded that God has not forgotten them either.

One moment that stayed with me was spending time with a woman named Ruth. We walked together to the second floor for games and exercises, and later she said, “I am so thankful you’re here. Sometimes I feel like the world has forgotten about me.” Her words were a powerful reminder that many elderly individuals feel disconnected from the world around them. Showing love and care may seem small, but it has a profound impact. By simply being present, we show them and remind them that they are not forgotten and that God remembers them. These service times are also an important part of my education at the Institute for G.O.D. International, where hands-on service helps students grow in character, faith, and leadership while making a meaningful difference in the community.

The Bible calls us to honor the elderly and care for those who are vulnerable:

"Do not rebuke an older man but encourage him as you would a father, younger men as brothers, older women as mothers, younger women as sisters, in all purity. Honor widows who are truly widows." – 1 Timothy 5:1-3

At McKendree Village, the residents we serve feel seen, heard, and valued. Through our presence and intentional care, they experience love, respect, and dignity, reminders that they are human, cherished, and never forgotten.