By Rachel Byrd
2,142. That’s how many older adults The Preserve, a senior living community in Fort Myers, has served since we opened our doors in 2020. But each resident we’ve served is more than a number – they’re family.
This year, we celebrate a significant milestone – the fifth anniversary of The Preserve. This isn’t just a mark on the calendar, but a celebration of the friendship, memories and achievements that make this community special. We’ve overcome so many obstacles from our first day open, from opening just before the eruption of COVID-19 to sheltering with residents in our community during multiple major hurricanes.
We opened our doors in the spring of 2020, and since then, we’ve been serving older adults who need assisted living, skilled nursing, memory support, or rehabilitation services. However, our pathway to serving older adults started 10 years ago during a time of critical need.
In 2015, former Governor Rick Scott released a Certificate of Need for 75 skilled nursing rooms. Volunteers of America National Services, our sponsoring organization, responded to this need and was awarded the responsibility because of its reputation and history of providing high-quality care. The result was The Preserve, a three-story, 118,000-square-foot community offering assisted living, memory support and 75 skilled nursing suites for long-term care, skilled nursing memory support and skilled rehabilitation. These options provide residents with the unique opportunity to stay at The Preserve residents as medical needs change.
Five years later, we’re proud to have served over two thousand seniors in all capacities, from outpatient rehabilitation to skilled nursing. We couldn’t do it without our team, many of whom have been with us since our doors first opened in March of 2020. These exceptional people care for our residents and contribute to the quality of life in Southwest Florida. Even though they aren’t related, our team treats each resident with the care, compassion and attention that you’d give to a family member.
We wouldn’t be the community we are today without our residents. When speaking with our residents about what they love so much about The Preserve, one of the most common remarks is “the people.”
Maureen Arend, 86, didn’t plan on moving to The Preserve. She had a home in Southwest Florida and family nearby. In 2022, she was recommended to check out The Preserve by her tax professional. She got a tour, fell in love with the decor, and months later was moving into our community.
“I’ve met some wonderful people, and there’s no place else I’d rather be,” says Arend.
Beverly Larsen, 91, moved to our community in 2021, but her late husband, Loren, was one of the first residents at The Preserve in February of 2020. While Larsen still lived in her home in the Gateway area, she would frequently travel to The Preserve.
“After almost two years, I decided it was time to sell the house because I was coming here so often,” says Larsen. “I moved into The Preserve in October of 2021, and this is where I’ll stay.”
Since moving to our community almost four years ago, Larsen has made many friends and enjoys participating in community activities.
Another long-time resident, Barbara Weinberg, appreciates The Preserve’s team for their empathy, care and dedication toward our residents.
“It’s the warmth of the people – all the people who work here are very special. I think it’s a mantra of this place. They care,” said Weinberg. “And that’s what makes The Preserve great.”
To our residents: you’re the heart of our community. Your stories, wisdom and laughter make this community a home. To our associates: your compassion and hard work every day ensure that every resident feels cared for and valued. For the past five years, we’ve shared countless unforgettable moments, celebrations, activities and just enjoyed being together. As we reflect on these years, let’s also look ahead to the future and the memories we’ll make over the next five years.
About the author
Rachel Byrd is the area sales and marketing director for assisted living at The Preserve. To learn more about The Preserve, call 239-722-6167.