“That survey really yielded a lot more for me than I thought it would,” Mary said. “It affirmed my belief that we were doing a lot of the right things.”

Front Porch communities are making individual decisions to conserve and support the environment, and the overall impact is significant. More than half of Front Porch’s communities have replaced incandescent bulbs with energy efficient LEDs; half have drought-resistant landscaping and water efficient irrigation systems; almost two-thirds have electric vehicle charging stations; and virtually all support recycling efforts, including e-waste. On top of this, individual communities have made individual choices that support green practices, such as Meatless Mondays, tankless water heaters, and solar power projects installed or under consideration.

Nancy Frost, a resident of Canterbury Woods in Pacific Grove, has been encouraging the community’s environmental efforts since she moved in more than 10 years ago. A former employee of the Environmental Protection Agency, Nancy has developed Earth Day programs to keep residents and staff informed about the individual steps they can take. This year, in keeping with the Earth Day theme of Planet vs. Plastics, she is preparing an educational program about plastics, including how to manage the film plastics that are recyclable but not collected by waste haulers.

She’s also educating about hidden plastics. “There’s lots of things that contain plastic that we don’t think about, like tea bags and bottle caps, that you can’t put in a recycle bin,” Nancy explains. “Take away paper cups and paper food containers, they’re all lined with plastic. That makes them trash, not recyclable. So what do you do instead? You get a mug and instead of taking the paper container, you get one of the reusable plastic containers.”

Nancy urges people to take things one step at a time. “One of my display boards for Earth Day this year is going to be Kermit the Frog, and it says, ‘It’s not easy being green, but it’s do-able,’” Nancy says. “I think that’s really wonderful way to put it. It’s just minor little changes. They add up and they add up. And if one year you make a change in one direction, and then you keep that in the next year, you add another one. You don’t have to do it all at the same time. You prioritize what you can do and start doing it.”

At Vista del Monte in Santa Barbara, Executive Director Doug Tucker has been working with the community and prioritizing water conservation in multiple ways. When he first arrived, the community was reviewing its landscaping which had included a lawn in the middle of the campus. “The residents had a slogan: ‘Brown is the new gold’ because they couldn’t water the grass,” he says. The community replaced the water-greedy grass with faux grass in the middle park area and then replanted most of the campus’s landscaping with drought tolerant planting.

But that was only the first step. The community is waiting for final approval from the City of Santa Barbara to engage in phase two. “What we instructed the landscape architect to do is to utilize water saving technologies,” Doug explains. “Some of the things that we’re focusing on is storm water management and returning water back to the groundwater, so we’re putting in permeable pavers, bio basins, and a 3000 gallon catch basin at the entrances and throughout the campus that will move water around the campus for stormwater management, but also to help return water to the aquifers.”

Although the community is allotted 848,000 gallons of water a year for landscaping, it is estimated that with the landscaping changes, the community will only use about 453,000 gallons annually. The landscaping project and its efforts toward water conservation continues the theme that was originally started about 8 years ago, Doug says.

“I’m a firm believer in being an environmental steward,” Doug says. “Being in Santa Barbara with the type of community and the number of residents that we serve, I think that we have a great opportunity to show our environmental stewardship with a lot of the programs that we bring to the community.”

“When you adopt green practices, in order for it to be effective, it has to be personal,” says Mary. “The shift in our communities is exciting to see. Perhaps we need to adjust and reinvent as we move along, but this information about our green practices as an organization gives us a foundation that we up until now really haven’t had.”

In reviewing the Green Initiatives survey, Mary says, “I think that sitting for a moment and taking an inventory of everybody’s good ideas was inspirational. Now that we’ve pulled all this information together, we can actually strategize around it.”

The post Earth Day every day through Front Porch’s green initiatives appeared first on Front Porch.

This walkable neighborhood around Webster House provides those fortunate enough to live in this boutique community easy access to both cultural and culinary experiences that will fill your days. Whether you are interested in the evening concerts at the local Methodist Church or simply want to linger at a local café, the activities you enjoy are only a couple of blocks away.

A stroll down University Avenue provides a wide range of restaurants and shops to choose from. Local favorites for Webster House residents include Café Mademoiselle Colette, Verve Coffee, Redwood Café and Café Venetia, which are all within easy walking distance of their low-rise apartment homes. This accessibility highlights the essence of independent living in Palo Alto, where convenience and community go hand in hand.

For those interested in expanding their horizons or showing their support for the Cardinal, Stanford University is only one mile away, presenting even more opportunities for engagement and exploration. This proximity to such a prestigious institution further enhances the appeal of Webster House as a premiere choice for senior living in the Palo Alto area. You can also participate in community events, such as the local farmers market or community garden.

Living in a walkable neighborhood is increasingly recognized as a key component of healthy, sustainable living. The essence of a walkable community lies in its ability to support an active lifestyle, foster social interactions and provide easy access to daily necessities and amenities. Webster House, nestled in the heart of downtown Palo Alto, exemplifies the pinnacle of walkable living, offering residents a unique blend of convenience, community and wellbeing.

Research has consistently shown that walkable neighborhoods contribute significantly to physical health by encouraging physical activity. Moreover, the Webster House community itself provides residents with a host of wellness activities, an outdoor heated pool, fine dining and access to care and support. The intimate community ensures that you’ll know your neighbors and find connections and camaraderie. 

In addition to the rich amenities and cultural opportunities highlighted, Webster House is also at the forefront of offering luxury senior living in Palo Alto. Each apartment is designed with the comfort and convenience of its residents in mind, ensuring a high standard of living that caters to the specific needs of seniors. The modern finishes and thoughtful layouts provide an unmatched level of elegance and functionality, making it easy for residents to feel truly at home.

Beyond the physical comforts, Webster House places a strong emphasis on creating a vibrant and supportive community atmosphere. Regularly scheduled social events, classes and gatherings encourage residents to engage with one another, fostering a sense of belonging and community spirit. This aspect of social interaction is crucial for a fulfilling senior living experience, allowing residents to form meaningful connections and enjoy their golden years to the fullest.

Safety and security are paramount at Webster House, with measures in place to ensure that residents feel secure at all times. From emergency response systems in each apartment to the presence of attentive staff around the clock, every detail has been considered to provide peace of mind for both residents and their loved ones.

The commitment to wellness extends to the dining experiences offered at Webster House. Nutritionally balanced chef-prepared meals are available, featuring a variety of cuisines to cater to diverse palates and dietary needs. Dining together not only provides nutritional benefits but also serves as another opportunity for residents to connect and share stories over delicious food.

Palo Alto is a culinary haven with an impressive array of dining options all within walking distance. From the comforting ambiance of Fambrini’s Café to the innovative dishes at Son & Garden and the exquisite Mediterranean flavors at Evvia Estiatorio, there’s something to satisfy every craving. The diverse and vibrant restaurant scene around Webster House ensures that residents have access to some of the best dining experiences Palo Alto has to offer, making every meal and adventure waiting to be discovered.

Choosing Webster House means embracing a lifestyle where every need is met with care and every day offers new possibilities for joy and fulfillment. It represents the pinnacle of senior living in Palo Alto.

Come take a walk around Webster House! Schedule a tour and see for yourself how life here seamlessly blends comfort, culture and community, major factors when looking for senior living in Palo Alto. Experience firsthand why Webster House is not just a place to live, but a place to thrive.

The post Walkable Webster House in the Heart of Palo Alto appeared first on Front Porch.

Don’s journey to Villa Gardens is marked by a deep connection to the city. After living in Pasadena and the surrounding area for over 45 years, Don moved to a retirement community in Orange County. However, following the passing of his wife, he felt a strong pull to return to Pasadena, a place he considers home, and settled at Villa
Gardens.

Don’s generosity extends beyond Villa Gardens. He also supports various other organizations, including the Old Mill Foundation, Huntington Library, Colonial Williamsburg and The Smithsonian. His diverse philanthropic interests reflect a commitment to enriching the cultural and historical fabric of his community.

At Villa Gardens, Don’s donations are driven by a passion for enhancing culture and life enrichment. “I like to bring additional programming to Villa Gardens, particularly more music programs,” he said, envisioning a community enriched by the arts.

Don’s story is a testament to the power of community and the impact one individual can have. His three years at Villa Gardens have been marked by a desire to give back to a community that resonates deeply with him, a sentiment that inspires many. His contributions to the Front Porch Communities Foundation and other charitable organizations demonstrate a deep commitment to enhancing the quality of life for those around him, making Don a true pillar of his community.

The post Don Cotton’s Generosity Shines at Villa Gardens appeared first on Front Porch.

Several years ago, the community opened Summer House, a memory care neighborhood serving residents with Alzheimer’s and other dementias, and began offering Truly Yours, a program that brings personal assisted living services directly to residents in their homes at Vista. The community also recently enhanced resident amenities, including a new resident lounge, refurbished and expanded dining room and an outdoor patio.

In 2022, the Foundation partnered with Vista to pilot video touch-screens that tell resident and community stories, provide information about the campus, and showcase the community’s compassion through charitable gifts to the Foundation.

Vista del Monte residents have a zest for life that matches the vitality of the entire Santa Barbara area. Some residents explore their creative sides, in groups like the Vista Voices Choral Group and the Vista del Monte Players theatre company. Others stretch their minds with lifelong learning classes taught by outside experts as well as by residents.

Vista del Monte has always been a generous community. Through gifts from residents, the community has been able to make numerous enhancements to its campus, including the opening of Summer House. Joanne Freeman, the chair of the VDM Philanthropy Committee, made a gift through her Donor Advised Fund (DAF) to support that project, and also regularly donates to the Employee Scholarship Fund. “When I was a child, my family had a practice of giving back to others,” Joanne said. “I’ve kept this practice throughout my adult life and love giving to programs that serve people in my local community.”

Joanne’s friend and neighbor Jeanne Giacobine chairs the Scholarship Committee, a role she took on because “it’s a cause that means a lot to me.” But Jeanne’s charitable giving did not stop there. She has also donated to the Foundation’s Resident Assistance Fund for her community, to assist those neighbors who, by no fault of their own, have outlived their resources. “I look at residents who have been here for a long time and think how scary it must be if they ran out of money,” Jeanne said. “The Foundation elevates Front Porch and this community from just being a business to something bigger and greater. I’m happy to be part of that greater good.”

The post Vista del Monte: Looking to the Future appeared first on Front Porch.

Michael was inspired to put on the fashion show at Kingsley Manor, a senior living community in Los Angeles, because older generations are so often forgotten by the fashion industry. “I wanted to bring awareness to fashionable seniors,” Michael noted. “[Acting is] one of the few industries where you see seniors represented but you don’t see them much in fashion. I want to showcase older adults who love fashion.”

A Fashion-Filled Evening

For residents participating in the fashion show, the afternoon kicked off with having their hair and makeup professionally done by stylists who work in the film industry. After getting gussied up, Michael and four wardrobe stylists styled residents in special outfits chosen specifically for the runway that night. 

While resident models were busy getting ready, the Kurt Szul and Friends jazz band set the mood with soft tunes while guests snacked on hors d’oeuvres out on the Kingsley Manor patio. Fifty Kingsley Manor residents were joined by sixty outside guests in the audience to witness this fun and fashionable evening.

The show kicked off by showcasing clothing designed by Preston Douglas, who specializes in creating clothing pieces for dancers. Professional dancers hit the stage featuring Preston’s designs, dancing their way down the catwalk to showcase the versatility and movement in his pieces.

Following the dance portion of the event, the show paused for an intermission accompanied by music by DJ Daniel Gonzalez. With spirits high from the first half of the show and inspired by what they had just witnessed, guests broke into an impromptu dance party, moved by the DJ’s tunes.

The dance-filled intermission set the perfect stage for the second half of the show dedicated to the resident models. Michael notes that some of the residents were shy at the prospect of walking in a fashion show but his favorite part of the evening was “seeing residents blossom into the night” as they got more comfortable.

The resident portion of the show was broken into two sections, the first group of residents was styled by Michael while the second group was styled by volunteer wardrobe stylists. Participants walked and rolled down the runway, flaunting their outfits and bright smiles. Michael shared that “one model took it upon herself to kick it up a notch and stole the show. She had feared that she wouldn’t be able to fully participate but she took the moment in and completely embraced being on the runway.”

The audience and residents alike had a great deal of fun at the event and feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. “[The residents] want to do it again,” Michael shared. They’ve even asked to do another fashion show as soon as this summer. “I can’t even put into words how great it was,” Michael shared, reflecting on the event. “It brings me so much joy to see our residents light up.”

Future Events at Kingsley Manor

Michael is busy planning for upcoming events at Kingsley Manor. Currently, he is working on a Light Up the Block festival in August that will shut down the block in front of Kingsley Manor and transform it into a block party. Michael is looking to “light up the block with positivity,” and plans to feature local performers and invite the wider East Hollywood community, including the city council. To keep up to date with events at Kingsley Manor, check out the Kingsley Manor Facebook page and the senior living community’s website.

The fashion show is just one example of the eclectic events available to residents at Kingsley Manor. If you would like to learn more about the benefits of senior living in Los Angeles, check out our blog post all about the highlights of living at Kingsley Manor in East Hollywood.

Join Our Community!

If this dynamic lifestyle sounds appealing to you, we invite you to take a closer look at our community. We’re more than just a senior living community in Los Angeles, we’re a family. Experience Kingsley Manor for yourself by booking a tour.

The post A Night of Glitz and Glamour on the Kingsley Manor Catwalk appeared first on Front Porch.

On March 5, Seniorly announced that Casa de Mañana in La Jolla ranked in the top five in its Best of Senior Living Awards 2024. The San Diego Union Tribune reported on the honor on April 3. The story was also reported on KUSI’s website.

On March 26, The Oaklandside shared a feature article about how Home Match, Front Porch’s home sharing program, addresses homelessness and on April 2, KPIX also shared a story about the program on its evening broadcast. Home Match was also selected as the 2024 recipient of LeadingAge California’s Best Practice/Innovation of the Year Award in recognition for its work in homelessness prevention.

On April 16, Colorado Public Radio featured a segment on Social Call, Front Porch’s friendly visitor program, titled Overcoming loneliness and isolation with a simple phone call. The story featured conversations with a volunteer and participant as well as with Katie Wade, senior director for creative engagement.

On April 17, KFMB – CBS8 shared a story about the Men’s Shed program that is sponsored by Carlsbad By The Sea as they built a shed for ‘Raptor Ridge’.

On April 3, SuperMoney included Wesley Palms in San Diego in its Best Places to Retire in California 2024 guide.

On March 4, Senior Living Foresight posted about Front Porch’s involvement in the San Diego Senior Women’s Basketball Association.

On March 18, Front Porch shared a press release about Kingsley Manor as it hosted a fashion show in partnership with L.A. Fashion Week.

On March 15, Front Porch shared a press release, celebrating Friends House‘s 40th anniversary serving the Santa Rosa community.

The post Front Porch in the Media: March-April 2024 appeared first on Front Porch.

Growing up in southwestern Wisconsin during World War II, the anxiety of conflict loomed even though the war itself was far away. “Having no idea about geography and distances, I learned to identify planes by silhouette in case they flew over the farm,” she said. 

As a student at the University of Wisconsin, Madison, Ellie joined the Methodist Youth Fellowship and attended a presentation by the American Friends Service Committee on the arguments against pacifism. “He was dealing with the very subject of war and peace and how to resolve conflict,” she said. “It answered all my basic questions. I spent the next year reading literature on ethical and moral violence and what a good Christian does.”

After graduating in 1956 with a double-major in English and History, Ellie went to New York City, looking for a role that supported her desire to work for peace. “I knew the names of the peace organizations and told them I was looking for a job.” She was hired by the Fellowship of Reconciliation as one of its first regional field directors, covering Michigan, Ohio, Western Pennsylvania and Western New York.

Her work coincided with the start of the Montgomery bus boycott. To avoid the impression she and other members of the Fellowship were northerners sent to tell others what to do, Ellie took a leave of absence and paid her own way to Montgomery to observe the movement. 

By the time Ellie arrived, the boycott had been going on almost one year. After her first night in Montgomery, she and Glenn Smiley, the national field secretary for the Fellowship of Reconciliation, walked over to Dr. King’s house. “Dr. King, of course, had studied Gandhi and nonviolence when he was in seminary, and he’d been thinking about it ever since,” Ellie explained. “When the boycott began, it was simply supposed to be a one-day strike. But when it became a movement of love and non-violence, [Glenn Smiley] just got on the bus, knocks on Dr. King’s door, introduced himself and the Fellowship of Reconciliation and said, ‘What can we do to help?’ So that’s how I got acquainted.”

Learning from Dr. King and others has continued to inform Ellie’s ongoing efforts for peace and justice. “We think we know exactly what needs doing in a situation whether we know anything about it or not,” she said. “I keep just trying to learn.”

Ellie continues her dedication to peace and non-violence as a member of the Society of Friends in San Diego.

She also shares what she’s learned with others, including a recent presentation to her fellow-residents at Wesley Palms on Martin Luther King Day. Along with recounting her personal experiences, she distributed copies of a comic book still used to illustrate the principles of non-violent resistance. Learning the principles “gives you the tools in advance, so when you do encounter a situation, you’re ready.” 

Even at 90, Ellie has more to do. “I’m always working on one project or another. Who would think that I would still be working and talking about it – something I did when I was 22?”

The post Wesley Palms resident Ellie Shacter shares lessons learned from working with Martin Luther King Jr. appeared first on Front Porch.

This prestigious list was compiled after analysis of over 500,000 customer reviews across 60,000 facilities. Such a distinction speaks volumes about the quality of life and satisfaction experienced by our residents and their families. “This award is a reflection of our dedicated staff, whose efforts make Casa de Mañana not just a living space, but a community where life is enriched, valued, and celebrated,” said Executive Director Kurt Norden.

Being selected in the top five is no small feat. The criteria for selection were stringent, requiring communities to rank in the top two percent based on consumer sentiment, maintain a clear record free of licensing violations for the past 36 months, and have no negative media coverage in the last 24 months.

At Casa de Mañana, we pride ourselves on offering a comprehensive range of services, from independent and assisted living to a variety of contract options, ensuring flexibility and peace of mind for our residents and their families​​. We’re proud to be recognized by Seniorly and remain committed to providing outstanding care and service for residents. This accolade motivates us to continue innovating and enhancing our services, making sure that Casa de Mañana, and indeed all Front Porch communities, represent the very best in senior living.

For more information about Casa de Mañana, visit our website at casademanana.org or call 800-959-7010.

To read the full announcement, visit Seniorly.com.

The post Celebrating Excellence: Casa de Mañana Earns Top Honors in Senior Living Awards 2024 appeared first on Front Porch.

As she delved deeper into her life at Vista del Monte, Judy learned about the Front Porch Communities Foundation through her new friends and neighbors. Their praises for the Foundation’s work resonated with Judy’s own values.

Eager to give back and be a part of something larger than herself, she discovered the benefits of a charitable gift annuity (CGA). A CGA offered Judy the chance to donate in a way that was both meaningful and financially prudent. Through this gift plan, available through the Foundation, her gift annuity was funded by a Qualified Charitable Distribution, free of taxes, directly from her individual retirement account. The CGA provides Judy with lifetime income at a set rate. And after she passes away, the Foundation will receive the balance of her generous contribution to support the community she loves. “The numbers just worked for me,” she explained. “It was a win-win situation.”

“It was important for me to be part of the tradition of giving at this community,” Judy said. Her donation is designated for the Vista del Monte discretionary fund, which is directed to meet the community’s most pressing needs. Judy does have certain causes close to her heart. She is particularly passionate about the Resident Assistance Fund, which serves as a “circle of friends” to help support residents who outlive their resources, and the Scholarship Fund, which helps Front Porch team members pursue their education goals. Her dream is for her contribution to also benefit the Fitness and Aquatic Center and the Caring Companions program, which trains resident volunteers to check on the well-being of other residents and offer one-on-one support.

“For many, there is a feeling in the back of our minds that we may run out of money and as a result, no longer be able to live at Vista. Having a resident assistance fund gives you a sense of security. I wanted to contribute to that,” Judy said.

Her personal history played a major role in her support of the scholarship fund. “I’m a strong believer in education. I went to college on a scholarship, and I want others to have that same opportunity.” At Vista del Monte, Judy found not only a home but a purpose. Her journey turned out to be more than just a change of address; it became a journey of community, generosity, and shared dreams.

The post A New Chapter of Generosity for Judy Gilbert at Vista del Monte appeared first on Front Porch.

The post A New Chapter of Generosity for Judy Gilbert at Vista del Monte appeared first on Front Porch.

A Haven of Activities

East Hollywood is a bustling district filled to the brim with entertainment and cultural attractions. Within a 4-mile radius of Kingsley Manor, you’ll find treasures like the Griffith Observatory for the stargazers, the Greek Theatre for music lovers, and local parks like Barnsdall Art Park for those who enjoy serene nature walks.

Griffith Observatory

For those with their hearts in the cosmos, the Griffith Observatory offers an exciting journey into the mysteries of the universe. Experience the breath-taking views of the night sky through the Zeiss telescope, attend a live demonstration at the Leonard Nimoy Event Horizon or simply marvel at the beautiful architecture of the Observatory itself. And don’t worry, accessibility is taken care of with ramps, elevators, and wheelchairs available for those who need them.

The Greek Theatre

Music enthusiasts, rejoice! The Greek Theatre is a world-renowned venue that hosts a variety of concerts and performances. Whether you’re a fan of jazz, classical, pop, or rock, there’s always something to pique your interest. Plus, with comfortable seating and excellent acoustics, it’s a pleasure for all ages. Enjoy an evening concert under the stars, or catch a matinee performance to beat the late-night crowds.

Barnsdall Art Park

For the nature lovers and art enthusiasts, Barnsdall Art Park is a true gem. Embark on a leisurely stroll through the olive groves, sit by the peaceful pond or take part in the weekly art workshops tailored for seniors. The park is also home to the famous Hollyhock House designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, making it a must-visit for architecture buffs. Wheelchair paths and benches are scattered throughout the park, ensuring a relaxing visit.

Indulge in Delectable Cuisine

For the food enthusiasts, living at Kingsley Manor in East Hollywood is a paradise. A melting pot of cultures, you’ll find a diverse array of cuisines right at your doorstep.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the renowned Pacific French Bakery, where the scent of freshly baked bread and pastries fills the air. For lunch, a visit to Marouch is a must. This local favorite offers a taste of authentic Armenian and Lebanese cuisine. Capping off the day, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at Sushidan-LA, an authentic sushi restaurant offering an array of fresh sushi and sashimi options. Living in Los Angeles is not just about the sights, but also the delightful gastronomical journey.

Kingsley Manor: Your Home in East Hollywood

Its East Hollywood location isn’t the only thing that makes Kingsley Manor stand out from other retirement communities in Los Angeles. Residents enjoy the perfect blend of relaxation and activity, with access to a plethora of amenities and events at this senior living community. Relax on the rooftop patios with views of Los Angeles, explore a new medium in art class and enjoy delicious meals in the dining room. Kingsley Manor embodies the vibrant spirit of East Hollywood while also providing the comfort and care essential to senior living.

Join Our Community!

If this dynamic lifestyle sounds appealing to you, we invite you to take a closer look at our community. We’re more than just a senior living community in Los Angeles, we’re a family. Experience Kingsley Manor for yourself by booking a tour.

The post Discover the Joys of Senior Living in East Hollywood appeared first on Front Porch.

The post Discover the Joys of Senior Living in East Hollywood appeared first on Front Porch.