Friends Village

02/26/2026

Congratulations to Jaysen Bechtold, our January 2026 Team Member of the Month! Nominated time and time again by residents, Jaysen brings a cheerful, kind, and thoughtful presence to our Culinary team each day. As a dedicated server, he goes above and beyond to make every dining experience warm and welcoming.

His enthusiasm for working at Friends Village is so genuine that he has even encouraged family members and friends to join the team.
We are grateful for the energy, heart, and commitment he brings to our community. Congratulations, Jaysen!

02/24/2026

We are proud to partner with the Art Department at Woodstown High School to showcase a new collection of student artwork throughout Friends Village!
These thoughtfully created pieces have added fresh beauty and inspiration to our shared spaces, and our residents truly enjoy experiencing the talent and creativity of the next generation. It is a meaningful reminder of the connection between art, education, and community.

02/20/2026

Today, we celebrate National Caregivers Day and the extraordinary individuals who pour their hearts into caring for others. Our caregivers offer far more than assistance. They provide comfort, reassurance, dignity, and compassion each and every day. Their steady presence and selfless dedication make a meaningful difference in the lives of those they serve.
We are deeply grateful for caregivers everywhere whose kindness, strength, and commitment uplift individuals, families, and communities every single day.

02/19/2026

Love doesn’t fade with time. It grows, deepens, and takes on new meaning. In our latest blog, we explore how love, friendship, and community continue to shape emotional well-being in the golden years. From lifelong partnerships to new romances, meaningful friendships, and inclusive Valentine’s Day celebrations, connection remains at the heart of life in our community.

Read more about love, companionship, and community at:

Explore how love, friendship, and companionship support emotional well-being for seniors in community living, especially during Valentine’s Day.

02/17/2026

Last week, we had the honor of celebrating Keegan Mattson at the LeadingAge New Jersey & Delaware 2026 Awards Ceremony, where he officially received the Excellence in Professional Advancement Award.

Seeing Keegan recognized among peers across the aging services field was a proud moment for Friends Village. His journey from frontline team member to Director of Culinary Services reflects dedication, heart, and a true passion for elevating the resident dining experience.

Congratulations again, Keegan, on this well-deserved recognition. Your leadership continues to make a meaningful difference every day.

02/14/2026

Happy Valentine’s Day! Here’s to friendship, kindness, and the many ways love shows up in our community every day.

02/13/2026

Valentine’s Day is a time to celebrate love in all its forms. At Friends Village, that includes honoring resident couples like John and Jan, who have shared 55 years together and continue to inspire us with their story!

02/11/2026

February is Heart Health Month! ❤️💪 Older adults can take simple steps toward better cardiovascular wellness with mindful eating, regular gentle movement, stress management, and strong social connections. Read our latest blog for practical tips to support heart health all year long →

Discover heart-healthy tips for seniors during American Heart Month, including nutrition, gentle exercise, stress management, and lifestyle choices.

02/09/2026

Last week, our Culinary Department hosted a friendly Chef Competition at Friends Village.

Three teams were challenged to create a full meal, from entrée to dessert, while residents were invited to enjoy the dishes and vote for their favorite.

It was a wonderful evening filled with creativity, teamwork, and great food — and even better company. Events like this are just one of the many ways we bring our community together!

02/06/2026

Our residents and team members are wearing red today in support of National Wear Red Day. ❤️ This annual day reminds us that heart disease is the leading health threat for women and encourages everyone to make heart-healthy choices like staying active, eating balanced meals, and connecting with the people who lift us up.

02/02/2026

Our Culinary team kicked off American Heart Month with a delicious food demonstration highlighting a heart-healthy superfood: oats. Residents watched as oatmeal pancakes with rustic applesauce were prepared and, of course, enjoyed a taste of the final dish. Healthy eating never tasted so good.

01/29/2026

Congratulations to Care Partner Shaneeka Burgess, our December 2025 Team Member of the Month! Shaneeka’s positivity, teamwork, and dedication make a difference every day. Residents love her, and she consistently demonstrates our core values while building meaningful relationships with those she works with, cares for and serves. Thank you, Shaneeka, for being an essential part of the Friends Village team!