At John Knox Village of Central Florida, community isn’t just a word—it’s a way of life. Just ask Bev, a resident whose commitment to helping others continues long after she retired from her career as a Kindergarten teacher. She’s become a shining example of our Orange City senior living community’s spirit of service and support.
For Bev, volunteering gives her much more than something to do during retirement. “It’s always been part of who I am,” she shares. “I like being where I can be useful. It gives me purpose. Living here, you don’t feel like you’re just aging in place. You’re growing, giving, and still making a difference.”
Small acts of kindness that make a big impact
That desire to give back has followed Bev throughout her life—and it’s stronger than ever here at John Knox Village. After moving into the community with her husband seven years ago, she immediately started volunteering to help out our assisted living residents. And that was just the beginning.
Whether she’s greeting new residents, knitting hats and blankets for newborn babies, or simply checking in on neighbors, Bev is known throughout the community for her warm smile, generous heart, and boundless energy.
“I’ve always believed that if you see something that needs doing, you do it,” Bev explains. “That’s what community is about. We support each other. I’m so glad I’m here, and my health has enabled me to contribute. I’m really grateful for that.”
What Bev loves most about John Knox Village is that she’s not alone in her outlook. Many residents share her desire to help, creating a truly tight-knit community where purpose never retires—it evolves.
That culture of compassion and volunteerism is deeply woven into the fabric of our community. Residents participate in everything from neighborhood support and garden groups to charitable drives and mentoring programs—both on and off campus. Whether it’s volunteering for a charity drive, helping residents who have transitioned to assisted living stay active, or simply offering a ride to a neighbor, these small acts of kindness happen here every day.
It’s not just about staying active—it’s about staying connected.
Bev’s story is a reminder that retirement with purpose is more than possible—it’s powerful. Studies show that seniors who stay socially engaged and contribute to their communities experience higher levels of well-being, and Bev is living proof. She admits that despite how much she does for others, she gets back more than she could ever give. “Everybody that we help at assisted living is so grateful,” she says. “They can’t thank you enough; it’s almost embarrassing sometimes. We’re doing it for them, but the feeling of appreciation that we get is just awesome.”
She credits the community’s warm, inclusive culture for helping her thrive. “It keeps me active, it keeps me joyful, and it keeps me connected to something larger than myself. I’ve made wonderful friends here. We look out for each other. It’s more than just neighbors—it’s like family.”
A culture that encourages giving back
At John Knox Village, there’s no shortage of ways to get involved. Our calendar is always full of volunteer opportunities for seniors. Everyone is encouraged to contribute in whatever way they can.
Many of our residents (and staff) have special artistic talents they like to share, whether it’s music, photography, or art. “We have a lot of musical groups and several of them come to assisted living once a month, which is really appreciated,” Bev says. “One of the greatest turnouts of volunteers is during pet visitations. People bring their pets to visit residents of assisted living and, of course, everyone loves that.”
She also wants to remind everyone that you don’t need any special skills to volunteer. You could get supplies ready for an upcoming craft or help get someone who has trouble walking to the dining room. Sometimes, just sitting with a neighbor and sharing stories is the greatest thing you can do. “I think we all want to know we’re still needed. That what we do still matters,” Bev says. “Here, I feel that every day.”
Like Bev used to tell her students, “You just have to raise your hand.” And these days, her hand is the first one up.
Interested in becoming part of a community like this?
Bev’s story is one of many at John Knox Village—a community built on mutual support, active living, and the belief that the later years of life can be the most enriching yet.
If this sounds like a place you want to live, we’d love to have you. Contact us for more information about our Orange City senior living community or to set up a tour. Call 386-775-0788.