Frankfort, Ky. (April 24, 2026) — At Morning Pointe of Frankfort Assisted Living, some of the most meaningful moments each week come from the familiar faces who walk through the doors ready to serve, sing, teach, and encourage. This National Volunteer Week, observed April 19 through April 25, 2026, the community is recognizing three dedicated volunteers whose steady presence has become a special part of life for residents.
Mrs. Gayla Stangle, Mrs. Kaye Martin, and Mrs. Sharon Sudduth have each made a lasting impact through weekly Bible studies and hymn singing, offering not only their time but also friendship, comfort, and joy. Together, they have become a treasured part of the Morning Pointe community.
Sharon Sudduth has been volunteering at Morning Pointe of Frankfort for nearly 10 years, leading hymns on Thursdays. A retired nurse, she said she was looking for a way to get involved in volunteer work when her sister-in-law, who worked at Morning Pointe at the time, suggested she try song leading with the pianist.
“The rest is history,” said Sudduth. “Singing brings me joy, and I come weekly to hopefully bring joy to others.”
Over the years, Sharon has built many memories through music. She recalled residents with beautiful voices, special one-on-one moments, and the strong sense of connection that singing creates. One resident in particular stood out to her because of her enthusiasm, even when keeping time with the music was difficult. She also fondly remembered Peggy, a talented pianist who faithfully accompanied the weekly hymn time and helped fill the room with music and warmth.
Each Thursday, the group closes with “Count Your Blessings,” a tradition that has become deeply meaningful to Sharon.
“I think that is my quote to remember how much the Lord loves us and we should be thankful for every day,” she said. “Sometimes I ask if somebody has something special to be thankful for. They often reply, ‘singing,’ and that adds to my joy.”
Gayla Stangle has been volunteering on Monday mornings for the past two years, leading Bible study for residents after being invited by the Life Enrichment Director.
“I was invited to volunteer by Anna, the activities director,” said Stangle. “She was searching around for a Bible study teacher, and I was looking for a way to spread the good word. The Lord will always bring and provide what you need.”
What began as a volunteer role quickly became something more personal.
“I love visiting with everyone in my Bible study group. They have become my friends,” she said.
Gayla said one of the sweetest traditions to come from her time at Morning Pointe is the group’s opening ritual of sharing a few “Dad” jokes before devotion begins.
“I started off a devotion on joy by telling a few ‘Dad’ jokes, so now we have made it a ritual of telling a few ‘Dad’ jokes at the beginning of devotions,” she said. “It always starts the day off right.”
For Gayla, the experience goes beyond volunteering.
“To others it’s considered volunteering, but I just think of it as fellowship with my friends,” she said.
Kaye Martin has been leading the Wednesday Bible study at Morning Pointe of Frankfort for the past four and a half years. She stepped into the role after a longtime church friend, who had taught the class for seven years, felt it was time to pass it along.
“She knew her assignment was up, and she recommended me to take the Bible study,” Martin said. “She and I have been friends for many years, and she knew I have been a Bible teacher throughout the years, also in other facilities.”
Kaye said her motivation is rooted in love and calling.
“I care for and love the residents,” she said. “I feel it’s my assignment from God.”
Through the years, she has cherished the conversations that happen during and around the group’s studies.
“Discussions with the group about our studies and their lives, knowing we have made a difference in our lives by coming together,” she said. “It’s not about me, but how I can make a difference in the lives of others.”
The three women each serve in different ways, but together they reflect the heart of what volunteering can mean in a senior living community: consistency, compassion, and connection.
“We are so thankful for Gayla, Kaye, and Sharon and the love they pour into our community,” said Amber Stansberry, Executive Director at Morning Pointe of Frankfort. “Their faithfulness has touched so many lives here over the years. They are part of the rhythm of our community and a true blessing to our residents and team.”
Morning Pointe Senior Living communities regularly welcome volunteers who want to share their time, talents, and heart with residents through music, games, conversation, education, and more.
To learn more about volunteering with Morning Pointe Senior Living, visit: https://bit.ly/morningpointe-volunteer
About Morning Pointe Senior Living
Founded in 1997 by healthcare entrepreneurs Greg A. Vital and J. Franklin Farrow, Morning Pointe Senior Living operates assisted living and Alzheimer’s memory care communities in five southeastern states, including AL, GA, IN, KY & TN. For more information, visit morningpointe.com.
The philanthropic arm of Morning Pointe Senior Living is the Morning Pointe Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that works to provide clinical scholarships and caregiver support.
