Knoxville, TN. (April 24, 2026) — During National Volunteer Week, April 19–25, communities across the country pause to recognize the people who give their time and heart to others. At Morning Pointe of Hardin Valley Assisted Living and Memory Care, one of those individuals is Madalyn Whedon, a volunteer whose steady presence is making a meaningful difference in residents’ daily lives.
Whedon began volunteering earlier this year, inspired by personal experience. Having had relatives in senior living communities and nursing homes, she saw firsthand how much a simple visit or shared activity can brighten someone’s day.
“I knew how much of a difference volunteers make,” she shared.
Since February, Whedon has become a familiar and welcome face in the community, especially during one of residents’ favorite pastimes: bean bag baseball. She has spent the semester helping with practices, encouraging players, and cheering them on. Recently, she had the opportunity to support residents during a tournament, where their hard work and dedication were on full display.
“It was awesome to see all of the hard work they put in be shown off,” she said.
While her role may seem simple on the surface, Whedon’s impact runs deeper. By showing up consistently each week, she helps create moments of connection, confidence, and joy. Whether assisting with activities or simply offering a smile, she adds to the sense of community that residents value.
“I enjoy learning more about the residents and making them smile,” Whedon said. “I try to be encouraging at practice and help lead activities. I’m just there to be another friendly face while they complete their day.”
That reliability has not gone unnoticed. Residents look forward to her visits, and her presence brings a sense of familiarity and encouragement that enhances their experience.
“What keeps me coming back is seeing how much it means to them,” she added. “I love being a part of their day.”
At Morning Pointe of Hardin Valley, volunteers like Whedon play an important role in supporting life enrichment programming and fostering meaningful relationships. Their contributions help create an environment where residents can stay active, engaged, and connected.
Morning Pointe of Hardin Valley Assisted Living and Memory Care offers personalized care, dining, and life enrichment services designed to support seniors in a comfortable, engaging environment, with associates available to provide support and peace of mind for both residents and their families.
As Morning Pointe Senior Living celebrates National Volunteer Week, stories like Whedon’s serve as a reminder that making a difference does not always require grand gestures. Sometimes, it is simply about showing up, offering encouragement, and sharing in the everyday moments that matter most.
For those interested in volunteering at a Morning Pointe Senior Living community, opportunities are available to support activities, events, and resident engagement. Learn more at: 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.
