Investing in People: How We Support Career Growth at Friendship

At Friendship, our mission is centered on serving seniors—but we know that fulfilling that mission starts with investing in the people who care for them every day. As one of the largest employers in the Roanoke Valley and Salem, we believe it is our responsibility not only to provide jobs, but to provide career pathways, leadership development, and opportunities for professional growth.

When our employees grow, our organization grows. And ultimately, the seniors we serve benefit from confident, skilled, and compassionate professionals who see senior living not just as a job—but as a career.

Leadership Development Close to Home

One of the ways we invest in our team is through partnerships with local colleges and workforce development programs. These partnerships allow our employees to receive high-quality leadership training right here in the Roanoke region while continuing to work and grow within our organization.

The Management Institute at Roanoke College

We are proud to support team members who participate in The Management Institute at Roanoke College, a respected leadership program designed for current and emerging leaders in our community.

This program provides practical, high-impact leadership education through a hybrid format that combines in-person workshops with online learning sessions. Participants learn from Roanoke College faculty and local business leaders while building leadership skills, strengthening communication, and expanding their professional networks across the Roanoke Valley.

We are proud to recognize employees who recently graduated from The Management Institute. Their commitment to professional growth reflects the culture we strive to build at Friendship—one where employees are encouraged to learn, lead, and continue growing throughout their careers.

Customized Leadership Training with Virginia Western Community College

In addition to external programs, we also provide customized leadership training through Virginia Western Community College Workforce Solutions. This program is designed specifically for Friendship team members who supervise others, including leads, supervisors, managers, and directors.

Since launching this program in October 2024:

• 57 employees have completed Level 1 leadership training
• 40 employees are currently participating in Level 2
• Participants complete a capstone presentation at the end of the course
• Additional pop-up training sessions, such as customer service training, are offered throughout the year

What makes this program especially impactful is that it is customized specifically for Friendship and for the unique environment of senior living. The courses are designed for adult learners and focus on skills that can be immediately applied in the workplace—from communication and conflict resolution to leadership confidence and team development.

Building Careers, Not Just Filling Positions

In senior living, relationships matter. Experience matters. Leadership matters. That’s why we focus on building careers, not just filling positions.

By investing in leadership development and professional growth, we are:

• Preparing the next generation of leaders
• Promoting from within whenever possible
• Strengthening our teams and workplace culture
• Improving the quality of care and service we provide to residents
• Investing in the Roanoke Valley workforce and local economy

When people choose to work at Friendship, we want them to know they are choosing a place where they can grow, advance, and build a meaningful career.

Because when we invest in our employees, we are ultimately investing in the seniors who call Friendship home—and in the entire community we serve.

Grow Your Career With Us

If you’re looking for more than just a job—if you’re looking for a career where you can grow, lead, and make a difference—we invite you to consider joining our team.

At Friendship, we invest in our employees through leadership development programs, career advancement opportunities, and partnerships with local colleges and workforce training programs. Whether you are just starting your career or looking to take the next step into leadership, you’ll find opportunities to grow here.

Explore careers and apply today at friendship.us/careers
Come grow with us—and be part of something meaningful.

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