Faithful Friends @ The Greens

In Pinehurst, a quiet corridor of a rehabilitation and long-term residential home hosts a powerful expression of faith in action. The Buddy Program, a longstanding outreach of Christ Community Church, pairs residents with caring volunteers who commit to monthly visits and, in many cases, weekly friendship. For more than 15 years, this ministry has offered tangible companionship, shared stories, and opportunities to experience the love of Christ in everyday moments.

The Greens in Pinehurst houses about 90 residents who benefit from a range of supportive programs and community connections. Christ Community Church has sustained this outreach for over a decade and a half, recognizing that meaningful relationships can transform the experience of aging and rehabilitation. Among the church’s programs—holiday celebrations, Bible study, a weekly Sunday service, a Book Club, monthly Veterans’ gatherings, and jewelry making—the Buddy Program stands out as a deeply personal form of care.

At the core of the Buddy Program is the simple, powerful commitment to visit with a resident at least once a month. Many volunteers maintain a more frequent presence, creating ongoing relationships built on trust, respect, and shared faith. Activities during visits are flexible and resident-centered, ranging from devotional reading and hymns to crafts, treats, outdoor time, and meaningful conversations about life and family. The aim is not to “fix” anything but to accompany a neighbor through days that can feel long or lonely.

The program offers a practical embodiment of James 1:27: “Religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained by the world.” Volunteers describe their experiences as moments of real connection, where simple acts of generosity—sharing Scripture, singing together, or listening—become lasting signs of Christ’s love.

Volunteer relationships can be deeply personal. One coordinator notes how visits foster joy, companionship, and a sense of belonging that residents may not otherwise experience. A volunteer who has grown close to a resident named Ella shared, “Over the last two years I’ve grown to truly know and love my Buddy.” Such testimonials illustrate how regular, heartfelt engagement can become a source of mutual renewal—strengthening the faith journeys of volunteers as they witness resilience and grace in those they serve.

The Buddy Program seeks compassionate people moved by the Holy Spirit to serve. Volunteers commit to monthly visits, with many choosing weekly engagement. Activities are intentionally simple and doable, designed to fit busy schedules while maintaining the integrity of personal connection. Training and ongoing support from the ministry team help volunteers feel prepared, confident, and connected to a broader network of others serving in this mission.

A friendly invitation to discuss availability, interests, and the needs of residents.

Introduction to the Buddy system, with guidance on visit structure and suggested activities.

Matching with a resident who shares compatible interests and compatibility of personalities.

Ongoing support and opportunities to participate in additional ministry events or substitute roles.

The impact of The Buddy Program extends beyond individual friendships. It reinforces a culture of care within The Greens, uplifts residents’ spirits, and provides a tangible, everyday expression of faith. For volunteers, the experience deepens their own spiritual journey as they share Scripture, faith, and life with someone who values companionship and presence.

If you feel drawn to become a Buddy, the next step is to reach out to Paula VanAntwerp. She can share more about the program, discuss availability, and explain training and support structures. The invitation is open to anyone who senses a call to serve—whether you’re ready to commit monthly visits or would like to serve as a substitute Buddy or assist with special events.

“The Buddy Program is an enduring reminder that faith translates into acts of care,” one coordinator reflects. “By visiting, listening, and sharing life with our residents, we demonstrate Christ’s love in the most practical of ways.”

If you’re curious about serving, contact Paula VanAntwerp to learn more and explore next steps.

Consider sharing this opportunity with friends, family, or church groups who are seeking meaningful, local ways to live out their faith.

The Buddy Program at The Greens represents a quiet but powerful form of ministry—one that recognizes every person’s longing for connection and the transformative power of neighbor-love. Through faithful daily acts, volunteers and residents together illustrate what it means to live out faith in practice: to visit, to listen, to encourage, and to be present with one another in the light of Christ.