Friendship Retirement Community

02/21/2026

Today FRIENDSHIP ASSISTED LIVING hosted a celebration of Black History Month featuring Rev. Edward T. Burton, a Friendship Independent Living resident, pastor, Civil Rights leader and Army Veteran, AND Captain Deatria Muse, the first female African-American Captain in Roanoke City’s Sheriff’s Office. Rev. Burton shared his experiences with Martin Luther King, Jr., and helping to integrate Roanoke restaurants. Captain Muse recognized our resident Frankie who served in the Sherrifs office from 1988-2000–paving the way for other African-American women.

02/20/2026

We’re proud to sponsor Kids Square Children’s Museum—and even prouder of what that partnership makes possible.

Each month, families who visit Kids Square take time to create handmade cards for our residents at Friendship Retirement Community. Those simple notes, colorful drawings, and heartfelt messages travel straight from little hands to older hearts—and the impact is powerful. On Valentine's Day, our sister site Friendship Richield Living received cards and gifts for their Health Center residents.

At Friendship, we believe intergenerational experiences are essential to building a stronger, more connected community. When children and seniors share kindness, creativity, and stories (even through something as small as a card), everyone benefits. Smiles are exchanged. Loneliness is eased. And meaningful connections are formed across generations.

Thank you to Kids Square and the amazing families who help remind our residents that they are loved, remembered, and part of something bigger.

Because community is better—at every age—when we grow it together.

02/17/2026

Join us at FRIENDSHIP ASSISTED LIVING for a celebration of Black History Month. The celebration features Rev. Edward T. Burton, a Friendship Independent Living resident, pastor, Civil Rights leader and Army Veteran, AND Captain Deatria Muse, the first female African-American Captain in Roanoke City’s Sheriff’s Office, sharing their personal stories of leadership.

And you want to miss a savory and soulful lunch featuring:
• Bean and Ham Soup
• Fried Catfish or BBQ Ribs
• Macaroni and Cheese
• Collard Greens
• Potato Salad
• Cornbread
• Banana Pudding

SEATING IS LIMITED
LUNCH $10.75 | DESSERT: $1.75.

02/14/2026

This Valentine’s Day, we’re celebrating a love story that proves it’s never too late to find “the one.” 💕

At Friendship, Tom and Nancy discovered something truly special — a friendship that blossomed into romance, and ultimately, marriage. Their journey reminds us that love doesn’t follow a timeline. It shows up when you least expect it.

Join us as we share their beautiful story and the magic that can happen when hearts stay open. At Friendship, we don’t just help people live fully...sometimes, we help them fall in love too. ❤️

02/13/2026

BREAKING NEWS: We've extended the deadline for seniors to apply for the SENIORS FOR SENIORS scholarship to Feb 27th! Get all the details at friendship.us/scholarship

02/11/2026

Black History Month | Vision & Values Honoree
Today, we proudly recognize Rev. Adrian E. Dowell, a lifelong servant leader whose faith, vision, and compassion have strengthened our community for decades.

Since 1994, Rev. Dowell has led Shiloh Baptist Church with integrity and innovative thinking—guiding major growth, a facility expansion, and a vibrant congregation that reaches across Salem, Roanoke City, and Roanoke County. His leadership is rooted in trust, accountability, and a deep commitment to lifting others.

Beyond the pulpit, Rev. Dowell has poured his heart into social work, youth mentorship, and countless community boards—helping shape education, healthcare ethics, and opportunities for young people throughout the Roanoke Valley. Whether coaching youth sports or serving on civic and faith-based committees, he leads by example and inspires everyone around him to be their best.

Rev. Dowell truly embodies what it means to serve with purpose—and we are honored to celebrate his lasting impact. Denise Dowell is accepting this award on his behalf, and we extend our heartfelt congratulations to their entire family.

✨ Thank you, Rev. Dowell, for a legacy of leadership, compassion, and community.

02/09/2026

Help spread the word! Friendship is offering a "Seniors for Seniors" scholarship. Our senior residents will choose high school seniors interested in furthering their education through trade and college programs to receive scholarship money. High school employees and family members of employees and residents are encouraged to apply. Learn more and apply at https://www.friendship.us/scholarship

02/05/2026

We've made it into the finals, but we need YOUR VOTE to get us to the GOLD! Vote at our special link below. https://vote.theroanoker.com/custom_link/6978f8fc0ca51a084d749abb?fbclid=IwY2xjawPx1JxleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeyU6ym5J5eiQWfjh_g56HzFFBw-qVnmg-9dC7QLOqp7NXRqVEwcaYXAHAwPY_aem_Ko7NKJYODjnkuyPH2YAw-Q

Welcome to our 2026 Best of Roanoke Reader's Poll Voting Page! This ballot is your chance to weigh in on the people, places and things that make or break your day here in the valley.

02/05/2026

Raise your hand if you love taking Strength & Balance classes with Michelle! If you haven't tried them yet, join her each Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 10am in the Residents' Center

02/03/2026

📅 February Is Here—and So Are Our Activity & Wellness Calendars! ❄️💙
✨ View the calendars here: https://www.friendship.us/north/independent-living

From fitness classes and wellness programs to creative activities and social gatherings, February is packed with opportunities to stay active, connected, and inspired.

02/03/2026

As part of our ongoing commitment to safety and preparedness, Friendship Health & Rehab Center North and South will be participating in a safety exercise in conjunction with the Southwest Virginia Healthcare Coalition. Part of our task is to make sure that we are able to notify families and our community should an emergency occur.

📣 Please note: Social media is the best place to stay informed about activities, safety-related events, and important updates we share with the public. Should we ever experience an actual emergency, we encourage you to check our social media channels first for timely and accurate information.

SAFETY EXERCISE DETAILS:
🗓 Date: Tuesday, February 3
⏰ Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
During this exercise, our team will practice recommended safety procedures and ensure clear communication. Drills like this are an important way we prepare our employees to respond quickly and effectively in the event of an emergency.
Thank you for helping us make safety a priority—for our residents, our team, and our community. 💙

02/03/2026

As part of our ongoing commitment to safety and preparedness, Friendship Health & Rehab Center North will be participating in a safety exercise in conjunction with the Southwest Virginia Healthcare Coalition. Part of our task is to make sure that we are able to notify families and our community should an emergency occur.
📣 Please note: Social media is the best place to stay informed about activities, safety-related events, and important updates we share with the public. Should we ever experience an actual emergency, we encourage you to check our social media channels first for timely and accurate information.

SAFETY EXERCISE DETAILS:
🗓 Date: Tuesday, February 3
⏰ Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

During this exercise, our team will practice recommended safety procedures and ensure clear communication. Drills like this are an important way we prepare our employees to respond quickly and effectively in the event of an emergency.
Thank you for helping us make safety a priority—for our residents, our team, and our community. 💙