We Have a Place in our Hearts — and our Homes — for Volunteers

Last week was National Volunteer Week and we celebrated our amazing volunteers who give their time, talents, and compassion to support our community of elders. By visiting one-on-one, helping with activities, or sharing special skills, our volunteers give back to our community and to the seniors who have contributed so much to our lives.

Because of our volunteers, meaningful moments happen every day, and the impact is lasting. To all our volunteers, thank you for being such an integral part of the happiness and well‑being of our A.G. Rhodes family!

Interested in making a difference? We have a place for you. 

Rooted in Gratitude:
Kathy’s Story of Recovery and Giving Back

Volunteer Spotlight: Kathy Engeman

After a sudden illness led to a 48-day stay at A.G. Rhodes Atlanta, Kathy Engeman expected a difficult experience. Instead, she found connection, healing, and a sense of community she didn’t anticipate.

“I said, ‘This is going to be bad.’ And it wasn’t. I couldn’t believe it. I enjoyed every moment.”

Now, she returns each week—not as a patient, but as a volunteer, helping care for the gardens she once enjoyed during her recovery.

“I just felt like I needed to do something as a payback.”

Dedicated to Safety and Care

Employee Spotlight: Evanny Lopez, RN
Infection Preventionist Nurse, A.G. Rhodes Wesley Woods

"I’m trying my best to ensure resident safety, as well as employee wellness.”

That’s how Evanny Lopez describes her work as an Infection Preventionist nurse at A.G. Rhodes Wesley Woods—a job that often happens behind the scenes but plays a critical role in daily care.

Evanny monitors infection trends, educates staff, and helps implement protocols that reduce risk across the building. It’s detailed, consistent work, especially during peak seasons when outbreaks are more likely and quick response matters.

Generation Connect 2026

Applications are now open for Generation Connect 2026! This unique intergenerational program brings together students and elders to build meaningful connections, share stories, and learn from one another in ways that leave a lasting impact.

This year's camp is already over half full, so if you’re ready to be inspired, make a difference, be part of something truly special, and have fun, apply today! 

Read more about the full camp experience HERE.

Recipes That Tell a Story:

Homemade Cornbread

At A.G. Rhodes, food continues to bring people together in meaningful ways through shared memories and traditions.

In our latest Recipes That Tell a Story installment, we head to A.G. Rhodes Wesley Woods, where an elder shared her recipe for "Fancy Cornbread". Residents and staff spent time preparing and enjoying a classic, well-loved dish. And by the way, a can of creamed corn is the secret ingredient that makes this cornbread fancy!

Six Years Strong:

A.G. Rhodes Cobb Named Best in Cobb Again

A.G. Rhodes Cobb was once again named Best Nursing Home in Cobb County in Cobb Life Magazine’s “Best of Cobb” annual competition. Click here to see the “Best of” issue of Cobb Life Magazine, which features A.G. Rhodes and the other winners. 

Spring Happenings In Our Homes

Activity and fun this month has been as high as the pollen count! Spring is in full swing across our A.G. Rhodes homes, bringing with it a variety of activities for residents to enjoy. From Easter to milestone birthdays to Walmart outings to manicures to just getting out and enjoying the sun, here are a few recent snapshots.

Team Accolades

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

We know how wonderful the A.G. Rhodes community is. We want everyone to know! Kind words mean a great deal to our Care Partners. If you have some kind words you'd like to send a staff member, you can send them a Care Partner Praise HERE!

"We were very pleased with our experience at A. G. Rhodes in Cobb. We came after about 6 different recommendations from friends. We felt the nursing staff was experienced with dementia patients and did an outstanding job with our mom’s recovery! They knew when to encourage and motivate and when to give her space. The physical and occupational therapists were excellent with my mom. Many activities to choose from and a music channel which was so good for settling her. Her room was spacious with a beautiful window to see outside. The grounds were beautiful for outside strolls and the birds inside were high motivation for getting her out for exercise. Rhodes made strides with her the family thought we’d never see again."

~ Marcia C.

In Memory Of...

If you have a loved one who was an A.G. Rhodes elder who recently passed away, email us at communications@agrhodes.org if you would like to include his or her name and link to the obituary in the next issue.