Blue Ridge Christian Home was founded in 1975 on the Bender family dairy farm as a not-for-profit organization dedicated to honoring the elderly through Christian principles of care. Embracing a philosophy that aging and frailty do not diminish a person's value or purpose, the home provides a nurturing and dignified environment in which residents can continue their journey while maintaining their personal identity. The community is deeply rooted in family values and rural traditions, drawing inspiration from the practice of supporting neighbors in times of need, much like the culture in which the organization’s founder, Mr. Bender, was raised.
Life at Blue Ridge Christian Home is intentionally designed to feel warm, safe, and familiar. The facility is small enough that care is always close at hand, and the staff are known for their loving attentiveness and commitment to honoring each elder as an individual. Rather than an institutional setting, the home embodies a family-oriented atmosphere, with staff trained to work closely with families, who are always welcome and encouraged to remain involved in their loved one's daily life. There are no restrictions on visiting or trips out, allowing residents the freedom to enjoy meals out, scenic drives, or visits home for special occasions and vacations.
From the first day of admission, staff at Blue Ridge Christian Home work to understand each elder’s personal lifestyle, creating individualized care routines that provide consistency and peace of mind for both residents and their families. This approach helps minimize fluctuations in care, ensuring that every resident receives the respect, attention, and support they deserve. The staff is never supplemented with temporary agency personnel, reflecting the organization’s commitment to continuity and familiarity in relationships.
The living room is the heart of the home, transformed over time into a true communal gathering space where residents can socialize, relax, or watch the events of the day unfold. Personal touches such as bringing in favorite recliners from home are encouraged, ensuring that everyone feels a sense of ownership and belonging. This area is also a hub for activities, frequently becoming a chapel, movie theater, or concert venue for quality events and gatherings. Meals are a cherished tradition, with elders and staff dining together around the table, sharing not only good home-cooked food but also conversation and camaraderie. Every year, the residents collectively provide nearly 9,000 meals for staff, celebrating the bonds formed through daily interaction and shared experience.
Blue Ridge Christian Home places a strong emphasis on spiritual nourishment and meaningful connection. There are regular weekly services, including Tuesday evening Bible study, Wednesday morning chapel, Saturday evening song service, and Sunday morning worship. The home is also blessed by a thriving community of alumni families and volunteers who return to share their time, talents, and love with current residents. Special events such as game nights, movie nights, poem readings, and concerts by groups like the Jacobs Family Bluegrass Band are regular features, fostering a vibrant and joyful environment.
Family involvement and continuity of leadership have been hallmarks of Blue Ridge Christian Home’s legacy. The organization remains family-owned and operated, with members such as Melvin and Carmina Bender building new campuses and guiding the home’s ongoing growth, while others like Katrina and Shawn have continued the tradition of close-knit, intergenerational care. Each day at Blue Ridge Christian Home is guided by the enduring belief that regardless of past experience or circumstance, every elder deserves to be honored, respected, and loved in a true home setting.