Why volunteer?
Gainesville, Florida, home to the state’s flagship university, is perceived by many as a “college town”. Yet there is another side to Gainesville: a richly diverse community which includes wonderful small-town folks who have lived here for generations. In their later years, some find themselves at one of the city’s nursing homes. Friends Across the Ages is the only program in Gainesville, and one of the few in the nation, which focuses entirely on volunteering in nursing homes. We are dedicated to forming true friendships with socially isolated residents of nursing homes, to enrich their lives and ours. Our primary focus is on one-to-one visitation.
Why volunteer in a nursing home?
First of all, you are needed. What you may find when you visit a nursing home is that the people there have one problem in common: loneliness. Even if you can only visit one hour a week, you can restore hope, dignity, and sense of belonging. You will be a connection to the “outside world”. Over time, you may become a friend and confidant.
Additionally, you will benefit. Our friends at the nursing home enrich our lives in many ways—by sharing their stories of times and places we may not have experienced, by their appreciation of the little things, and, most of all, by offering their friendship and love.
How do I get started?
Friends Across the Ages has volunteer groups at several nursing homes in town, and if your schedule aligns, you may be able to join us. Use the “Contact” button above to inquire.
In recent years (and especially post-pandemic), we have fewer of these groups available. The good news is, you can get started on your own. Every nursing home in town has a full-time employee known as the Activity Director. Just call the main number for any of the nursing homes below, and ask to speak to him/her about volunteering. They will go over the options for you.
You can also call the Activity Director if you several volunteers who want to volunteer as a group. Typical group activities would include Bingo, arts-n-crafts, singing, games, joke telling, and more.
Gainesville Nursing Home Locations/Phone
Gainesville Health and Rehab–4000 SW 20th Ave, 352-377-1981
The main entrance is located on the side of the building as one enters the parking lot. Parking can be found on the side of the building before the main entrance, and also around the back.
Magnolia Ridge Rehab–6517 NW 39th Ave, 352-677-3422
The newest facility in Gainesville. It’s set way back from 39th Ave so you may miss it driving by, but you won’t miss the main entrance straight ahead of you as you drive onto the property.
North Florida Rehab and Specialty Care–6700 NW 10th Place, 352-331-1111
This facility is located near North Florida Regional Medical Center. There is some parking in front of and just to the side of the building. Enter through the main entrance (the door closest to NW 10th Place).
Parklands Care Center — 1000 SW 16th Ave, 352-376-2461
Parking can be a challenge at this facility. There is small parking out in front of the building (on SW 16th Ave) and another behind the building. There is also parallel parking on the side street next to the facility (SW 10th Terrace). Do not park in any of the nearby apartment complexes or you may be towed.
Park Meadows Health and Rehab–3250 SW 41st Place, 352-378-1558
There are two small parking lots at this facility; either is fine. The main entrance is located off the 2nd parking lot as one travels east on SW 41st Place.
Palm Garden of Gainesville–227 SW 62nd Blvd, 352-331-0601
Parking can be found in the front and sides of this facility. Main entrance is located on the south side of the building.
Plaza Health and Rehab–4842 SW Archer Rd, 352-376-8821
This is a newer, large facility on Archer Road, with plenty of parking. Main entrance is the door closest to Archer Road.
Terrace Health and Rehab–7207 SW 24th Ave, 352-333-0600
The entrance to the parking lot is a little west of the building, close to the Walgreens. Turn left after entering the driveway to get to the parking lot. The main entrance is the one closest to SW 24th Ave.