August 2024

RSVP Today

Are you curious about how we provide affordable housing to seniors who struggle to make ends meet? Or, maybe you're looking for an opportunity to get active in your community?

Join us to see our mission in action at our Lake Ridge Fellowship House Open House. Guests will have the opportunity to meet some of our residents, staff, and VIPS from the Prince William County community. The open house will include refreshments, guided tours of the property, and raffle prizes to help support the Fellowship Square mission.

We look forward to seeing you at Lake Ridge Fellowship House and partnering with you!

The Sound of Music

For the last several years, Fellowship Square has focused on bringing new and unique musical programming to the seniors in our buildings. We have had numerous programs, activities and special events that have given them greater exposure to a variety of sounds, instruments, and music from around the world. Fellowship House residents have enjoyed listening to unique musical recordings, attending live concerts, learning about musical instruments and their significance in cultural performances, and using sound for meditation and reflection.

The National Poll on Healthy Aging published by the University of Michigan earlier this year found that a majority of older adults listen to music regularly and they gained a number of mental health benefits from doing so, such as stress relief and relaxation.

Fellowship Houses are home to a multitude of cultures and ethnicities – many who speak different languages. Music is one avenue that allows all residents to come together and enjoy one another’s company even if no words are spoken.

We are thankful for our many community partners who bring music to the ears of our residents; and we are especially grateful to the residents themselves who share their talents and love of music through individual and group performances with their neighbors.

I encourage you to get involved with us and see how your time, talent and treasure is “music to the ears” of those we serve.

In gratitude,

National Night Out Recap

Fellowship Square Celebrates National Night Out

On Tuesday, August 6, Fellowship Square joined the celebration of National Night Out. Each Fellowship House held events that brought residents, local law enforcement, fire departments, and elected officials together to celebrate our communities. Attendees enjoyed delicious food from local vendors and engaging activities that fostered camaraderie among neighbors. The relaxed setting allowed residents to interact with law enforcement and fire personnel, breaking down barriers and building essential trust for community safety.

The event was packed with surprises, including giveaways and resources from community organizations helping to remind our residents and the community that support is always available. Fellowship Square’s National Night Out showcased the importance of collaboration in creating a safe and welcoming environment.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to all the community partners, elected officials, local police, and fire department members who helped bring joy to our residents!

Lake Ridge Fellowship House



Lake Ridge Fellowship House hosted a Immunization Awareness Presentation with One Hanson Pharmacy. Residents learned about immunizations currently being administered and had questions answered by medical professionals. Thank you to One Hanson Pharmacy for your assistance!

Hunters Woods Fellowship House

The residents at Hunter's Woods Fellowship House enjoyed their annual Luau party celebrating National Senior Citizens Day in August. Residents were able to enjoy dancing, singing, and tropical treats!

The Power of Music on Mood, Memory, and Mental Health 

The Power of Music on Mood, Memory, and Mental Health

Megan Barrett

The power of music is profound and can impact human emotions, memory, and mental health. This is where, for seniors, the benefits of music therapy are especially significant and can offer numerous advantages that help lead to a more fulfilling life.  

Engaging with music will lower levels of stress and anxiety. This calming effect can help alleviate worries and encourage relaxation, regardless of age. Beyond its soothing properties, music can also keep the brain active and prevent cognitive decline as people grow older – something we all need as time goes by. Studies demonstrate the efficacy of music therapy in aiding memory, attention, and problem-solving skills, making it a valuable tool for seniors to stay mentally sharp. In addition, music can elevate moods by not only stimulating good feelings but also contributing to one’s general well-being. 

On top of the mental and physical benefits of music, participating in musical activities can also provide opportunities for social interaction. This can help foster connections with others and combat feelings of isolation, which is especially important for people who are growing older and may have limited opportunities to form relationships within their communities. Music also enhances creativity and self-expression, whether it’s through learning to play an instrument or exploring different music genres. You’ve probably noticed that music can often increase your drive and focus, making otherwise boring or tedious tasks seem more enjoyable. This is due to music’s positive impact on intrinsic motivation, which includes enjoyment, interest, and freedom of stress. Music can be easily incorporated into your daily routine; for instance, you can make playlists of songs you enjoy for different moods and activities or attend local concerts, festivals, and other cultural events. Simply singing along to your favorite songs is another great way to boost your mood and engage with music, and by inviting friends, you can also connect with others and share and explore different genres of music. 

Fellowship Square also recognizes the profound impact of music on the residents’ well-being and offers a range of music programs and activities to cater to different interests, such as Tuesday Music Cafés, handbell classes, music at Culture Day, and choir groups offered in multiple languages. Through these opportunities, Fellowship Square is able to offer numerous ways for the community to engage with music and experience its benefits – ultimately encouraging everyone to explore music and discover how it can enrich their lives and their well-being. Information on music programs and activities can be found on the Fellowship Square official website’s Resident Life – Programs & Services page. For those who are passionate about both music and making a difference in their community, visit the Fellowship Square Volunteers page to learn how you can contribute your time and skills. 

Megan Barrett was a summer communications intern at Fellowship Square headquarters. She is currently a Senior at Fairfax High School in Virginia.

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