Serving at Friends House Retirement Community

In all aspects of community life and living at Friends House Retirement Community there is a sense of mission and purpose. Rooted in Quaker values of service, Friends House residents, staff, and board members are engaged in many activities that enhance not only the lives of those living at Friends House, but also serve to enrich the lives of others in the surrounding Sandy Spring community. The high proportion of Quaker residents influences a culture of simplicity, concern for the troubled areas of the world as well as local causes, and peace and justice issues. Friends House residents, staff and board members are active and involved in public policy, political and social issues and participate in many religious, social and professional associations.

Volunteerism: From assisting in the neighboring Sandy Spring Friends School to picking up trash along the roadway, Friends House residents make a difference in the community. Residents give countless hours to volunteer activities such as assisting the activity program in the nursing center to weeding a neighbor’s patio garden. From its residents, staff and board of directors, Friends House shares its resources, areas of expertise and its facilities so that many individuals and organizations can benefit.

Elephant Shop: Gently worn clothing items, household goods, and many other treasures can be purchased at the in-house Friends House re-sale store called the Elephant Shop. Volunteers manage all aspects of the store operations.

Community Garden: Many residents believe the heart of the campus is located in the community garden. Several acres of land serve to provide individual plots for residents as well as dedicated areas for communal gardening for sharing of the harvest. Volunteers serve on the garden committee organizing the plots, the communal areas, the composting system, garden equipment, and all other aspects of managing the community garden.

Country Store: Resident volunteers manage the campus store providing essential items for sale at a low cost. Residents and staff can purchase anything from snacks to light bulbs in the country store.

Tours and Trips: Residents formed a committee to plan tours and events for residents to enjoy. Day trips to D.C. or Baltimore are frequent, as are evening or lunch outings to plays, restaurants and other local attractions.