Hear from Our Residents

Hezla's Story

Piedmont Gardens |Oakland, California

As physicians, Dr. Hezla and her husband, Dr. Pareed, both know the importance of having access to exceptional care. So, when Pareed’s Parkinson’s disease became too difficult to manage living in the family home, they made the decision, with encouragement from their two daughters, to move to Piedmont Gardens. They knew that moving to a Life Plan Community would provide Pareed with the day-to-day care he needed while giving Hezla the opportunity to live in the nearby independent living apartments.

“At first, I didn’t think moving to a Life Plan Community would be the right fit for us, but the more we researched our options, it became apparent that this was exactly what we needed,” Hezla says. “Pareed is receiving the proper care he needs, which gives me great comfort and security. I cannot say enough good things about the support we have received from the Piedmont Gardens team members and other residents.”

Tapping into her personal and professional experiences, Hezla serves on the social services committee, which is made up of a group of residents who have careers as physicians, physical therapists, occupational therapists and social workers. The mission of the committee is to provide guidance and support to residents who live independently but might have a loved one living in a higher level of care. The committee also provides advice to residents who are considering transitioning to another part of the continuum of care offered at Piedmont Gardens.

“By participating in the Caring Partners group, I find it very rewarding to share my experiences with others and, in turn, have received valuable suggestions and support along the way,” Hezla shares. “Sometimes it can be overwhelming to manage the care of a loved one, so it’s important to have a community like this. I have made some very good friends on whom I can lean in difficult times.”

When not spending time with her husband or nearby family, another way Hezla feels connected is by participating in the wonderful exercise classes available at Piedmont Gardens. “I take most of the classes, including tai chi, yoga and strength training. It’s a wonderful way to meet new people, relax and feel good about yourself.”

Sara's Story

Terraces at Los Altos |Los Altos, California

Sara works full-time 1.5 miles away from The Terraces at Los Altos as founder and president of Hartcom, a communications firm helping individuals and organizations change, grow and realize their best potential.

Her latest projects include writing a book, Prime Spark: Women Over 55, It’s Our Time! She also launched a podcast, Prime Spark with Sara Hart, and started a greeting card line that includes encouraging and uplifting words for women.

“I believe we are on the cusp of major social change, and it’s very exciting,” Sara says. “We are about to see the ascendency of women over 55 standing up and saying, ‘OK, it’s time for a change. We are dynamic, involved, contributing, powerful, desirable and vital to our communities.’ I wrote this book for older women who want to thrive, change the way our culture depicts us, and make the best choices during our prime years.”

In 2017, Sara moved to The Terraces, but before that, she endured an emotional journey of downsizing.

“I had to go through the painful and, frankly, sad process of leaving my large home and getting rid of my things, but I knew this was what I wanted to do,” she says. “After going through this process, I wanted to share my journey with others, so I wrote a book, The Upside of Downsizing: Getting to Enough. It’s not a book about how to sell, sort and donate your things; it’s about the feelings you experience while doing all of that and knowing when you have enough. It’s amazing how many heartwarming emails I receive from my readers thanking me for recognizing these real emotions.”

Since she moved to The Terraces, she has felt empowered by her decision and has never looked back. She lives in a one-bedroom apartment with her beloved cat, Mr. Bu, and enjoys the freedom of going to work every day and not having to worry about home maintenance.

“I finally found my enough,” she says, “and I am extremely happy.”

Jerry and Kay's Story

Las Ventanas at Summerlin |Las Vegas

For as long as they can remember, volunteering has been a way of life for longtime Las Ventanas residents Jerry and Kay. Jerry, a retired colonel in the Air Force, served our country for 27 years, and his wife, Kay, volunteered her time with the Red Cross and Military Family Services before they moved to Las Ventanas. Fortunately for us, they have continued to have that can-do attitude here and in the greater Las Vegas community.

“When we first moved from Florida, we didn’t know anyone, so we leaned into our passion for volunteering and our need for socialization,” Kay says. “Giving of our time and talents has provided us a sense of belonging and the opportunity to give back to our community.”

Kay recalled how some special women in the community encouraged her to get involved with Assistance League, a national nonprofit organization with a mission to provide clothing and personal care items for children and adults in need.

“Our Las Vegas chapter has received numerous recognition awards, and we have helped to clothe thousands of children,” she says. “I am so proud of the good work my friends and I are doing to assist underserved families.”

Kay is also the chairperson of the Las Ventanas activities committee, which she says gives her a chance to interact with many of her neighbors. “I know firsthand how important it is to feel connected with others, so if I can inspire just one person to get involved, then I’ve done my job.”

Jerry also stays very active by volunteering his time on the exterior committee and the safety and security committee at Las Ventanas. He is the liaison for the Military Officers Association of America with the ROTCs at the University of Las Vegas and for Junior ROTCs at 27 area high schools. One of his favorite ways to volunteer, however, is bartending for community happy hours. He is well known around campus for making the best martinis!

Kay adds, “As much as we’ve given back, Las Ventanas has given us so much more in return: true friendships, a sense of purpose and a delicious martini from time to time, thanks to Jerry!”

Let’s toast to that!

Bobbie's Story

Regents Point |Irvine, California

Bobbie is inspired by a lifelong love of learning. “You say the word 'education,' and I immediately become passionate about the possibilities for everyone,” Bobbie, who has two master’s degrees and a Ph.D., says.

Education has always been at the center of Bobbie's life. Whether working as an elementary school principal, teaching as a university professor or developing programs to help people with learning disabilities, she believes in the power of education to open doors.

Bobbie channels her passion and her experience into chairing the resident-run Regents Point Education Fund to help team members — many in entry-level positions — advance their professional goals. Since its inception in 2013, when it was created through a bequest from two former residents, the fund has given out more than 120 education awards totaling more than $67,000. The funds are raised through voluntary donations from the residents.

“I feel so strongly that even though it’s not a huge amount of money — up to $750 per award — it helps people to achieve the dreams that they have,” Bobbie says. “It’s a relationship we build with the team members that shows them we care about them.”

Awards have been used to pursue a wide range of disciplines, from business administration to physical therapy. With the help of the education fund, several team members graduated from four-year universities. In some cases, they were the first in their families to attend college. Bobbie is involved in a number of other Regents Point activities. She teaches a weekly Bible class, chairs the vespers committee and participates in book groups. She also has worked with the library committee and the trip committee.

For many of the team members, the encouragement of Bobbie and her committee members has had a lasting, life-changing impact.

Sandra Garcia was a new licensed vocational nurse at Regents Point when she received her first award. Since then, she has received 12 awards through the program, which helped with her tuition to get her certification to become a registered nurse. She hopes to become a nurse practitioner.

Joel's Story

The Terraces of Boise

Joel shares his many talents with everyone. A retired mortgage banking executive and lifelong musician, Joel finds joy in pursuing his passion for the saxophone, which he has played since the age of 14. He brings his talents and passions to his life at The Terraces of Boise.

His love for community bands and jazz groups has followed him across various places throughout his life, including New Jersey, the Hudson Valley of New York, Cleveland and now Boise, Idaho. Currently, Joel plays in four bands within the greater Boise community: the Kings of Swing, The Midnight Jazz Cats, The Switch in Time Jazz Orchestra and the Boise Community Band.

What makes Joel’s story even more remarkable is the generational legacy of saxophonists in his family. His son, Adam, a staff psychologist at the VA Medical Center, is also a professional musician. His grandson, Jacob, a music education major at the University of Idaho, also plays the saxophone. All three generations live locally, allowing them to spend quality time together, share their love of music and even swap instruments from time to time!

Joel also occasionally performs for his fellow residents at The Terraces, which is always a welcomed treat. His involvement at The Terraces goes beyond his musical contributions. He serves on the resident council as secretary and is a member of the activities and lifestyle committee. His participation in the Lively Lit group allows him to read poetry and song lyrics out loud, enriching the cultural fabric of the community. Joel is active in many pursuits at The Terraces, from lively social events to captivating murder mystery dinners.

Joel exemplifies how a lifelong passion can continue to thrive at any age. His dedication to music, coupled with his active involvement in the community, has made him a cherished resident of The Terraces. Living his best life, surrounded by family and fellow residents, Joel is a testament to the enriching power of music and the importance of community.

Bryce and Ann's Story

Regents Point |Irvine, California

Residents Bryce and Ann are on a mission to make a difference. In 2007, motivated by scientists reporting that the world’s climate was beginning to warm, Regents Point residents Bryce and Ann took a tourist expedition to southern Argentina and the Antarctic Peninsula. They were alarmed by what they saw.

It was climate change right before their very eyes. 

“The ice was indeed disappearing,” Bryce says. “We visited research stations and wildlife areas where expert scientists had reached this conclusion already.”

It would be easy to be discouraged by such a frightening assessment of the Earth’s future. But the career scientists are harnessing their deep knowledge and passion for the environment to encourage, educate and empower people to find solutions.

“Bryce is a teacher at heart; I am a worker at heart,” Ann says. For more than a decade, Bryce has coordinated a class called Our World in Change at the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at California State University, Fullerton. This class has provided a view of the causes and effects of global warming and research into ways to reduce it.

Ann went back to school to leverage her software experience to predict climate change. She has been a member of the research staff of UC Irvine’s Department of Earth Systems Science since 2014. Using a mathematical computer ocean model, she studies the delicate balance of the currents, the chemistry and the biology.

Their marriage has been filled with adventures, including driving independently on safari in the Serengeti in a Volkswagen Beetle and traveling down the Nile through the Sudd swamp in southern Sudan on a paddle steamer.

They have hiked and biked around the Americas and Europe. With a lifelong appreciation for nature, they were drawn to Regents Points’ neighboring Mason Park, where they enjoy walking and bicycling along the trails.

They take steps — both big and small — to help protect the environment.

“We’re trying to change minds,” Bryce says. "We’re trying to use what we’ve learned to help change the course of global warming, and to encourage people to take action urgently.”

Stan and Jackie's Story

Rydal Park & Waters |Jenkintown, Pennsylvania

In the wise words of Warren Buffett, “In the world of business, the people who are most successful are those who are doing what they love.”

This sentiment couldn’t be any truer for Stan as he has embarked on not one but four careers to date. As a recognized thought leader and influencer, Stan — the former CEO of a global chemical and engineered glass materials company — is a nationally syndicated columnist for the Philadelphia Business Journal and the author of “Be Different! The Key to Business and Career Success.” His mission is clear: to help others be successful. “It’s important to me to give back to others and share whatever knowledge I can to help other business leaders be successful,” Stan says. 

To say Stan and Jackie are active in the greater Philadelphia community is an understatement. Stan has served on numerous public, private, private equity and nonprofit boards and is currently the vice chairman of the board of trustees of Drexel University and a board member and chair of the finance committee at Saint Christopher’s Hospital for Children. Jackie and Stan also sponsor a third-grade class in Northwest Philadelphia every year, helping the students take local field trips and purchase classroom supplies. “It always feels good to give back,” Jackie shares with a smile.

Once they saw the beautiful cottage options at Rydal Park & Waters, the move there was a done deal. “Whether it’s for work or pleasure, it’s also nice to know that if we choose to, we can walk to the Rydal train station and be in Center City, Philadelphia, in less than 30 minutes,” Stan says.

“We could have moved anywhere, but we decided Rydal Park & Waters was the right decision for us,” Jackie adds. “We are people who embrace so many aspects of our life. Whether we are working out at the local gym, spending time with family, working or volunteering, we wanted a place that was low maintenance but had the space and beautiful amenities that we desired in this next chapter of our lives. Our grandchildren especially love visiting the clubhouse!”

With a nod of agreement, Stan adds, “We have no intention of slowing down, so living at Rydal Park & Waters has given us the gifts of time and convenience, which are priceless to us. Who knows what hobby or career we will take up next? Only time will tell.”

Allen's Story

Piedmont Gardens |Oakland, California

When asked what committees Allen serves on, it’s easier to mention the ones he’s not involved with at Piedmont Gardens. Allen’s can-do attitude shines through in everything he does both on the campus and in the greater San Francisco community. From serving as vice president of the resident council to participating in the music, activities, film and social work committees, Allen keeps himself and other residents active and connected.

“I have always believed you only get out of a place what you put into it,” Allen says. “Whether it’s at school, your job, your neighborhood or your community, if you put in the energy and time, you will be rewarded in wonderful and fulfilling ways.”

Allen has a passion for music, dance and the theater that he shared with his late wife, Ellen, so it was only natural for him to be involved with the music committee. Allen helps to choose the artists that perform once or twice a week at the community and keeps it fresh by bringing in a variety of professional and nonprofessional artists who perform everything from classical to pop music.

Additionally, Allen often organizes outings to the San Francisco Ballet, San Francisco Opera, San Francisco Symphony and the Berkeley Repertory Theatre with other residents.

“I will buy tickets to an event and then ask if anyone would like to join me,” Allen says. “We generally make a night of it by going to dinner beforehand and then end the night with a great performance. I get to experience all of this with different people, which makes it fun and interesting.”

Allen also enjoys planning monthly outings to museums and parks. And while the many friendships Allen enjoys are so valuable, he is also busy planning activities to do with his two grandsons, who live nearby. “It’s so important for me to share my passion for culture and the arts with my family. Now that my grandsons are a little older, I am looking forward to taking them to museums and concerts. I am planning to take my older grandson to eight concerts this year. I am so looking forward to it!”

Allen adds, “I really have the best of both worlds: family and friendships that keep me active and happy.”

Jo Ann and Pat's Story

Valle Verde |Santa Barbara, California

As former owners of a bed-and-breakfast inn in Santa Barbara, residents Jo Ann and Pat learned the importance of making people feel comfortable and welcome every day.

Both entrepreneurs at heart, Jo Ann and Pat ran their inn for 10 years. They even started the Professional Association of Innkeepers International; taught innkeeping seminars for 17 years; and published a book, So You Want to Be an Innkeeper. They brought that compassion and business spirit to the greater Santa Barbara community as well as to Valle Verde, where they participate in various committees and help organize social events for not only the residents but also their four-legged friends.

Pat started a statewide organization offering workshops and national conferences for the 44-year-old Alternatives to Violence Project (AVP), bringing it to multiple communities and 30 California prisons. AVP focuses on enriching people’s lives and is committed to building peace in homes, schools, prisons and the greater community.

From a very early age, Jo Ann has had a love of animals. Specifically, she is passionate about animal rescue efforts. Jo Ann is involved with the national Havanese organization. She also enjoys attending the playdates for residents and their pets at the beautiful dog park on campus.

“We currently have five weekly play dates for the dogs, which are very well attended,” Jo Ann explains. “Even those who don’t have dogs enjoy hanging out to see them run and play. All the dogs that live at Valle Verde bring so much joy, including our sweet dog, Darcy.”

An event that is also popular is the annual Valle Verde Dog Show, where residents can “show” their dogs and take part in the festivities, which include a “Kanine Kissing Booth,” thanks to Pat, Jo Ann and, most certainly, Darcy, who gives out doggy kisses.

Jo Ann and Pat, however, are not just mindful of the happiness of the four-legged residents on campus. They have also served as zone representatives, checking in on neighbors and welcoming new residents to the community.

“Valle Verde is committed to making sure every resident is thriving and feeling connected,” Pat says. “It’s very rewarding to be a part of this effort. As a zone representative, I help plan monthly happy hours and Coffee Saturdays, so people stay engaged.”

Jo Ann adds, “Our careers and entrepreneurial ventures have brought us to this exciting place in our lives. We are grateful we can call Valle Verde our home and continue living a life full of learning, positivity and warm hospitality. And it’s nice to know the community not only welcomes us human beings but our four-legged family members too.”

Rod's Story

Hillside |McMinnville, Oregon

When Rod and his wife, Leila, moved to Hillside, they quickly became enamored with the greater community of McMinnville. “I have worked at various wine-tasting rooms in Sonoma County, so it’s been exciting to explore the wineries McMinnville and the surrounding area have to offer.”

Rod is a member of one of Hillside’s social wine groups and was instrumental in planning the first wine and food pairing for club members and other residents. He worked alongside Hillside’s director of community life, dining directors and another resident to plan the event, which received rave reviews.

“I recommended we bring in wine from the local award-winning Chris James Cellars winery, and the dining team prepared all the food pairings. This was a wonderful example of how residents and team members can lean on each other’s talents and passions and pull off a successful event for everyone to enjoy. I am excited to say another wine- and food-tasting event is in the works!”

When Rod isn’t enjoying a glass of wine or learning about the latest grape varietal, he is in the woodworking shop creating wooden utensils and charcuterie boards. He is the chair of the woodworking committee and is affectionately known around campus as the “fix-it guy.” Rod enjoys refinishing and refurbishing furniture for residents and helping the buildings and grounds committee with smaller projects around campus.

Living at Hillside has given Rod the freedom to explore his passions and use his talents for good. He’s even thinking about applying for a job at one of the tasting rooms on Third Street. Get to know Rod — you never know when you will need a delicious glass of wine or a beautiful charcuterie board for your next gathering.

Cheers!

Marti's Story

The Terraces of Phoenix |Phoenix, Arizona

If you’re in search of Marti, you’re likely to find her lifting weights in an exercise class. Or doing the “Boot Scootin’ Boogie” and the “West Coast Shuffle” in a line dancing lesson.

Marti does everything she can to take care of herself. And life at The Terraces provides her with plenty of healthy living options — from fitness classes to massage therapists — all under one roof.

“You feel so good,” she says. “It makes a world of difference!”

In addition to caring for her body, The Terraces has been good for her soul. As a caregiver to her husband, she has received support from both the staff and the entire community. That experience has been far different than the one she had caring for her first husband before she moved to The Terraces. He was living with dementia, and she had to depend on the help of friends as his health deteriorated.

Just as the community supports her, Marti is always there for them. She gives Communion to people who can’t make it to church, delivers food to people’s doors and pops in to check on fellow residents.

Even when she’s working out, she finds ways to help others, regularly guiding a visually impaired resident through exercise classes.

“We were all put on this earth to help each other,” she says.

Haren and Pratima's Story

Rydal Park & Waters |Jenkintown, Pennsylvania

When you look up the definition of “doing good in the world,” you'll find Haren and Pratima. Haren is a renowned vascular, trauma and general surgeon and was the medical director of three hospitals in the Philadelphia area, and his wife, Pratima, is an ophthalmologist with cornea transplant as a subspecialty. She was on staff at the world-famous Wills Eye Hospital. Both have committed their lives to a journey of public service and giving back to others who are less fortunate.

“We were both raised by parents who lived by a generous philosophy of selfless work for others, so we are honoring their legacy by helping to make the world a better place,” Haren says.

At the age of 60, both Haren and Pratima had accomplished so much in their careers, serving the Frankford, Philadelphia, community, but they knew they needed to do even more. They decided to step outside their comfort zone and do more for their native country of India. They returned to India to donate services and expertise to help the poorer populations in Shamlaji. 

Since 2003, they have been offering free health care services to more than 100,000 people in 100 villages. They also offer free plastic surgeries and 350 free cataract surgeries monthly. They actually purchased a hospital back then and converted it into a more modern health care facility.

Haren recalls the first free cleft palate surgery they performed on a young girl from a nearby village. “I remember her parents being so relieved and happy as she was getting teased about her looks. We recently tracked her down and found out that she’s doing well and has plans to become a nurse. These are the type of stories that makes my heart happy.”

“We like to say that we didn’t choose Shamlaji — it chose us,” Haren adds.

Haren and Pratima manage the hospital remotely but travel to India six months out of the year to volunteer their time and expertise.

They have been recognized with the prestigious Spirit of Philanthropy award presented by Frankford Health Systems for their incredible dedication and work. For those who know them, including their new neighbors at Rydal Park & Waters, the award couldn’t be more justified.

“The people we have met at Rydal Park & Waters are so welcoming, and the community offers so many opportunities to recharge our minds, bodies and spirits. And that does us good which, in turn, allows us to do more for others.”

Arminee's Story

The Terraces at San Joaquin Gardens |Fresno, California

Louis' Story

The Terraces of Los Gatos |Los Gatos, California

Ninety miles per week is the target cycling goal for Louis. And he hits that goal on the regular. In fact, over the past 40 years, he has taken to the open road, logging thousands of miles on his bike.

“I always enjoyed jogging, but once I turned 50 years old, I decided to take up cycling,” Louis explains. “It’s a great way to stay in shape, socialize with others and see much more of the countryside than driving in a car.”

And see the country and the world he has — by sea, air and, of course, the open road. As a retired Navy captain, naval aviator and commercial pilot, Louis has logged millions of miles in the air and across our vast oceans. He claims that flying off an aircraft carrier is “man’s greatest sport.”

Louis became very serious about cycling in his late 60s. He has participated in a few 100-mile rides, known as centuries, which many consider to be equivalent to running a marathon. His longest cycling trip was a continuous ride from the Canadian border to Thousand Oaks, California, which took him about a month to complete.

“I am looking forward to joining a local cycling club, but for now, I am enjoying riding my bike on my own," he says. "There are many beautiful trails and a variety of terrains in and around The Terraces of Los Gatos. One day, you can cycle to an area with steep climbs, and another day, you can be on flat terrain. I prefer riding on the open road.”

Louis moved from Thousand Oaks to The Terraces to be closer to his children.

“Just last week, I visited my son, and we went on a bike ride together,” he says. “My son races bikes, so it’s great I have the option of using an e-bike to keep up with him. I am grateful for the time I can spend outside enjoying what I love to do with the people I care about.”

Janet's Story

Plymouth Village |Redlands, California

Janet was born on the island of Kauai, Hawaii, and raised on a sugar plantation, but she later moved to the mainland to attend college. She later settled in Redlands, where she had an esteemed 37-year career teaching history, economics and government at two Redlands high schools.

“One of my favorite parts of teaching was instilling a love for the United States in my students,” she says. “Our country is filled with so much richness and variety. I believe everyone should have an opportunity to experience all that it has to offer.”

Janet surely lives by example. She has made traveling — not only across the United States but also around the world — a priority.

Impressively, Janet has walked on all seven continents of the globe, sailed on all five oceans, visited 117 countries and traveled to all 50 states. For many years, she was a weekly contributor to the local newspaper, Redlands Daily Facts, where she chronicled and shared her travel adventures with her readers.

“One of the most amazing trips I ever experienced was to the geographic North Pole,” she says. “I had the opportunity to go there aboard a nuclear-powered Russian icebreaker and walk on the ice there. I remember it like it was yesterday. It was truly an experience I will never forget.”

Another memorable trip was a 17-day journey on the Trans-Siberian Railroad from Moscow to Beijing.

“I was thrilled to find other people at Plymouth Village who had the same passion for travel as I do,” she says.

Janet participates in the Village Voyagers — a travel group here at the community — and looks forward to planning and taking trips throughout the year. She also gets to reminisce and talk about her life growing up in Hawaii with other residents.

“Some of the residents grew up in Hawaii too or have a love for the islands, so they started a Hawaiian group, where we meet and talk about all the things that make my childhood home so special,” she says. “This has been so much fun and comforting for me.”

When she doesn’t have a trip planned, Janet loves to read books about faraway places from the vast collection at Plymouth Village.

“I am so impressed with the library here that I don’t think I will ever have to buy another book again. I plan to borrow one of the many books and bring it along with me to my next travel adventure!”

Marilyn and Bob's Story

White Sands La Jolla

After living in a community in San Francisco, Marilyn and Bob decided to move to White Sands to take advantage of the glorious beaches, climate and proximity to family. Their choice of community living reflects their belief in the importance of connection, wellness and sustainability.

The to White Sands move happened quite by accident. While visiting family in San Diego, they were encouraged to take a tour of White Sands La Jolla. “As soon as we walked through the doors and saw the breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean, we were hooked,” says Marilyn. “The idea of being close to family, coupled with the beauty of White Sands, was too enticing to pass up.”

For Bob, moving to White Sands also opened new opportunities for him to pursue his passion for the environment. Bob is an active member of the green committee, an initiative that focuses on sustainability and eco-friendly practices within the community. “Being environmentally conscious is a way of life for me,” Bob says. “I love being involved in many of the green committee’s projects that contribute to a healthier planet for future generations.” Through the committee, Bob initiated a program in which residents can donate gently used clothing to local homeless shelters. Bob is also a pioneer in sports psychology and has written several bestselling books.

For Marilyn, an educator and family therapist, retirement has provided her an opportunity to expand and grow. At 65, she became a certified yoga instructor, embraced a vegan lifestyle and began teaching yoga classes at the community.

She and Bob are also strong supporters of the arts and enjoy community trips to the local La Jolla Playhouse and The Old Globe. Marilyn returned to school for an MFA in playwriting and has had her plays produced and read internationally. Marilyn’s next adventure? She is currently writing a memoir, Confessions of a Marriage Counselor.

“Through the richness of White Sands programs both within the community and outside, we have quickly felt like locals,” Bob says. “Our story is a testament to the power of Life Plan Communities to not only provide an engaging lifestyle but also to foster connections with new friends and family. We are living proof that, with the right environment, this next chapter in your life can be a time of growth, passion and meaningful engagement with the world around you.”

Marcia's Story

Hillside |McMinnville, Oregon

For Marcia, music has played a significant part in her life since she was a young child. She has studied piano since she was 7 years old and has made her life's work as a professional pianist and organist.

“There are so many talented musicians and singers who live at Hillside, so it’s meaningful to me when we can come together and share our beautiful music with the entire community,” Marcia says.

Helping to plan the community’s annual performances, including the holiday concert and spring concert, gives Marcia great pleasure. She also orchestrates smaller groups of musicians to perform throughout the year.

Marcia also gives piano lessons to people of all ages on her Steinway grand piano that sits in the living room overlooking one of the community meadows. “There is so much beauty that surrounds our cottage, so it is truly a perfect place to teach others how to play this magnificent instrument.”

Additionally, she is stretching her musical skills as a member of the community's Strummer’s Music Group, which is made up of guitarists, ukulele players and autoharp players. “I always wanted to learn how to play guitar but decided to learn how to play the ukulele, which has been great fun!”

When Marcia is not strumming the ukulele or tickling the ivories, she is serving as chairperson for the music committee. In her role, she oversees all the music activities in the community.

“Music is truly the universal language and brings joy and happiness to everyone around me," she says. "I am grateful that I can use my talents to give back and serve others here at Hillside and in the greater McMinnville community. I truly believe this is why I am here.”

Ted's Story

Las Ventanas at Summerlin |Las Vegas

Known as the resident shutterbug, Ted finds joy in taking photographs and video footage of community events happening at Las Ventanas. Whether it’s the annual butterfly release, costume and birthday parties or community theater productions put on by the Las Ventanas StageCrafters, Ted is in the thick of it, documenting these happy occasions.

After retiring from a successful career with California’s South Coast Quality Management District inspecting cruise ships and other offshore facilities, Ted bought a local photography studio in Las Vegas. Honing his photography skills, he enjoyed capturing weddings at casinos on the Vegas Strip and local school events.

Oh, the stories he could share!

“I have always had a passion for photography, so I am grateful I have the opportunity to continue doing what I love to do: capturing fun moments of community team members and my neighbors doing what they love to do,” he says.

The community and the greater Las Vegas area give him opportunities to also tap into his love of music. Ted joins “Meetup” groups where he plays his ukulele and guitar with other musicians and adds his singing talents as a bass singer in his church choir.

“I have always understood the power that music and photography have to draw people closer together, and I have experienced that firsthand here,” he says. “It’s a joy to see how my talents have touched the lives of my neighbors, who I consider some of my closest friends and even family. I am looking forward to capturing the next event!”

Victor's Story

The Mansion at Rosemont |Rosemont, Pennsylvania

When Victor was invited to attend one of the first meetings of the “Rosemont Players,” he was somewhat apprehensive because he had no real interest or experience in drama. However, at the time, he was caring for his now-late wife, Janet, and knew he needed a creative social outlet, so he accepted.

Six productions — including “A Christmas Carol,” “Moonstruck” and “Hamlet” — later, and Victor is smitten with the stage and the camaraderie it has created in his life.

“As a former high school principal and musician, I was used to being in front of large audiences, but I had to step out of my comfort zone to start acting in front of people," he says. "The good news is that all my fellow Rosemont Players and residents who attend our plays are encouraging and laugh with us, not at us!”

Getting involved was paramount for Victor as he navigated the “new normal” when Janet passed away. “It was a difficult time for me, but I was fortunate to have the support of nearby family and good friends I have met here. After dinner, there are a few of us that gather and watch television together in one of the common areas. It seems like a simple thing, but the act of gathering, talking and hanging out together makes a world of difference to me. I like to call our group ‘the gang!’”

These days, Victor doesn’t have a lot of downtime because he also serves as the president of the resident association. He leads the association meetings and ensures that all the residents have a safe and fair place to voice their opinions and make suggestions.

“It’s important for me to continue trying new things so I keep my brain active and my spirit alive," Victor says. "I am grateful for the opportunities and the encouragement I receive from my friends and team members, so I can live a productive and fulfilled life.”

Irene's Story

White Sands La Jolla

Irene’s husband, Eduardo, has a nickname for her: “High Octane.” It’s not hard to see why. From art classes and poker to world travel and working on the community finance and budget committee, Irene is involved in programs too numerous to list. If a club doesn’t exist, she creates it.

 “Being busy and focused is key,” she says. “I’m really happy with everything I’m doing.”

Irene spent her career as a blood bank specialist at the Red Cross, working on state-of-the-art blood and blood stem cell procedures. Being committed to worthy causes is innate to who she is. Since moving to White Sands, Irene has become an invaluable member of the community. Whether helping other residents with digital devices or reviewing financial numbers for the finance and budget committee, she uses her many skills to help others.

 “And for fun, I play games,” she says.

Originally from Hong Kong, the mahjong aficionado started a club for the tile-based game with two other residents. They initially played one day a week, but that has grown as more people have joined.

“It’s fun, and it creates a sense of community,” she says.

While she enjoys life at White Sands, Irene and her husband have a passion for travel, which has taken them to numerous countries.  

“I love learning about the history, the different cultures and meeting people,” she says.

Their next trip is planned for the Outer Hebrides in Scotland. And although she may be halfway around the world, you can be sure she’ll still stay up to date with all the happenings at White Sands.

“I always take my computer with me on my travels to stay connected,” she says.

It’s that high energy and engagement that not only enriches her life but also the lives of those she touches.

Danny's Story

Westminster Garders |Duarte, California

Danny never had much of a green thumb. He had unsuccessfully attempted to care for his late wife’s African violets; only one survived. So, he made it his mission to learn everything he could about gardening.

Danny’s gardening bug has taken root on Westminster Gardens’ lush campus. He now has his own garden on a secluded plot. He grows Japanese vegetables, including burdock root, Chinese long beans and winter melon, and carrots, potatoes and celery. Some of his neighbors have their own gardens as well, and they share advice.

“With the time and space, I’ve started to experiment,” Danny says.

His interest in plants extends beyond his own garden. He also loves living among 32 acres of luscious fruit groves and exotic plants.

“There are trees you don’t see anywhere else,” Danny says.

He works with a group that picks fruit off the trees and is on a crusade to rehabilitate plants in need. One forlorn avocado tree has become a pet project for him.

It was the parklike setting that first appealed to Danny when he toured Westminster Gardens. He looked out the back window and saw a big grassy area surrounded by trees.

“I was captivated,” he says. “I thought this could be a good place for a big city boy to learn about planting crops or raising chickens and bees.”

As for those African violets that first sparked his interest in gardening? “Now I have a lot of them,” Danny says proudly.