Friends Life Care recently had the privilege of partnering with Historic Fair Hill for a meaningful book collection. Historic Fair Hill was represented by Kerry Roeder and Friends Life Care member Jean Hurd.

The event brought people together around the love of reading. In addition, it highlighted the important work Historic Fair Hill is doing to promote literacy and community connection in Philadelphia.

About Historic Fair Hill

Historic Fair Hill is a Quaker burial ground in North Philadelphia. It’s history stretches back to the 1700s.

It is the resting place of notable abolitionists and suffragists. And today the campus also serves as a vibrant community hub.

Guided by Quaker values of equality and education, Historic Fair Hill focuses on strengthening neighborhoods by engaging residents in literacy, gardening, and social justice programs.

Literacy Programs Making a Difference

At the heart of Historic Fair Hill’s mission is a commitment to literacy. This positively impacts the lives of local children. Through its Early Literacy Program, Historic Fair Hill partners with Fairhill elementary schools, Historic Fair Hill to reopen and staff libraries, welcome volunteer reading buddies, hire parents are classroom assistants, and host family literacy workshops.

By working with nearby schools, they provide one-on-one reading support that helps students gain confidence, build fluency, and develop a lifelong love of books.  Many of the volunteers are older adults who serve as reading buddies and mentors, demonstrating how intergenerational connections can spark both academic achievement and personal growth.

These programs go beyond improving reading skills. They empower children to see themselves as capable learners and community leaders. The book collection Friends Life Care supported will help provide more books for these students to enjoy.

Jean Hurd: A Shared Connection

This partnership was especially meaningful because it was championed by Friends Life Care member Jean Hurd.

Jean’s commitment to literacy and social justice aligns perfectly with Friends Life Care’s values of vitality, independence, growth, and resilience (VigR®).

Her involvement reminds us that our members are not only beneficiaries of care and planning services, but also leaders who continue to shape their communities in powerful ways.

Visit or Volunteer with Historic Fair Hill

If you feel inspired by this work, there are many ways to get involved. Historic Fair Hill welcomes visitors to explore its historic grounds, gardens, and walking paths. You can enjoy this peaceful space for reflection and community connection. And there are changes to give back. Volunteers support the literacy program, tend gardens, and help with events.

Whether you can give a few hours a week as a reading buddy, lend a hand in the gardens, or attend a community gathering, your time and energy make a difference. Learn more about opportunities to visit and volunteer by exploring Historic Fair Hill’s website or reaching out directly to their team.

Building Community Through Collaboration

The book collection was a success thanks to the collaboration of Friends Life Care staff, along with Kerry Roeder, and Jean Hurd. This collaboration highlighted the impact of people and organizations working side by side to support their community.

At Friends Life Care, we believe aging vibrantly means staying engaged, connected, and purposeful. Supporting initiatives like Historic Fair Hill’s literacy program is one way we can help foster resilience and opportunity for generations to come.