On July 24, around 20 members of ASEZ STAR, the Church of God Student Volunteer Group, from the Newport News branch in Virginia visited Riverside Lifelong Health & Rehabilitation Warwick Forest as part of the Good Neighbor Project. This initiative aims to foster altruism and a sense of community by making a positive impact through neighborly acts of kindness. Arriving at the facility around 9 a.m., the members spent a joyful time with the elderly residents. The first activity was decorating flowerpots together. This activity was designed to stimulate the senses, enhance cognitive function, and add vitality to daily life. ASEZ STAR members helped the seniors decorate pots using stickers and handwritten messages, then planted seeds such as beans, flowers, and herbs based on their preferences. After the planting activity, they spent time engaging with the residents through puzzles, chess, and heartfelt conversations.
Eliza Stevens (15), shared her thoughts: “I learned how to communicate with kindness and consideration from the grandparents. From now on, I want to greet everyone with a smile, just like I did today.”
