Celebrating 20 years at Aspen Ridge Lodge

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Didsbury, AB, September 16, 2024

Mountain View Seniors’ Housing (MVSH) is proud to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Aspen Ridge Lodge, a vital part of the Didsbury community since 2004. Built as a legacy project, Aspen Ridge Lodge was part of a groundbreaking pilot initiative to offer higher levels of care to seniors within their own community, all while integrating those who didn’t need the same level of assistance. Today, this innovative approach stands as a model for compassionate, community-based aging.

Aspen Ridge Lodge marked this milestone with a joyful afternoon celebration. The event featured a birthday cake, inspiring words from local and provincial leaders, and a entertaining performance by Will Reeb – Tribute to Elvis.

Nathan Cooper, MLA for Olds-Didsbury-Three Hills, spoke warmly of the lodge’s impact: “Today is such a great opportunity to come together and celebrate all the things that make our community strong, and you, Aspen Ridge Lodge, are certainly a huge part of making our community strong.”

Mayor Rhonda Hunter of Didsbury praised the lodge’s role in providing a nurturing environment for seniors: “It’s such a good feeling to know that all our seniors have a real home here and are looked after so very well. Didsbury is fortunate to be part of MVSH and to have Aspen Ridge Lodge in our community, providing a kind, caring, and compassionate environment for all who have the opportunity to be here.”

Also in attendance was James Nibourg, President of the Alberta Seniors and Community Housing Association (ASCHA), who presented a commemorative certificate to Aspen Ridge Lodge. Reflecting on the importance of community-based housing for seniors, he said: “Many people are forced to leave town to go to seniors’ housing. I really believe it’s important to stay in your home community. This is your home, and we celebrate that opportunity today.”

MVSH Board Chairman Dwayne Fulton spoke of the lodge’s journey, reminiscing:“I can remember when this was a new facility—it just seems like yesterday. This milestone is a testament to the dedication of our staff and everyone who works here, including our operations and maintenance crew that keep everything running smoothly.”

Stacey Stilling, CAO of MVSH, emphasized the sense of family and teamwork that makes Aspen Ridge special: “For two decades, Aspen Ridge Lodge has provided services in this beautiful building. But what truly makes Aspen special is the community created by all the team members who choose to work here. Without these amazing people, none of this works.”

Tears of gratitude were also shared by Teina Bowen, Site General Manager of Aspen Ridge Lodge, who reflected on her deep connection with residents and staff: “For many of us, this is not just our job—it’s our family. I sometimes can’t believe that I get paid to do this, to care for our residents and staff. It’s an incredible privilege.”

Milestones Over 20 Years:

• Activities Team: Aspen Ridge Lodge has facilitated over 110,000 memorable activities, engaging residents in enriching social experiences.

• Maintenance Team: With 50,000 work orders completed and 32,000 hours of maintenance, the lodge has ensured the smooth functioning of its facility for two decades.

• Food Service Team: The kitchen has served over 1.2 million meals to residents, delivering nourishment and comfort every day.

• Housekeeping Team: Each resident suite has been cleaned approximately 1,040 times over 20 years, contributing to 60,320 total cleanings, not including common areas, offices, and washrooms.

Aspen Ridge Lodge continues to be a shining example of community-based senior care, ensuring that seniors can age with dignity, comfort, and a sense of belonging in their own hometown. Mountain View Seniors’ Housing is proud to make Aspen Ridge Lodge home to our local seniors for many more decades to come!

Embracing Love, Laughter, and Lifelong Memories

– Mountain View Seniors’ Housing