In May, Meadowood will officially turn 30 years old, however the inspiration for this unique community happened over 36 years ago. A community of neighbors, set on a large, sprawling campus enjoying each other’s company and thriving in a collegiate atmosphere. That was the vision that sparked the initial Board of Directors in 1982 where residents, board and management would come together to create and operate a dynamic community.
Bill and Sylvia Strasburg, the founders of Meadowood Senior Living, took great care when developing Meadowood, which incidentally was named for the beautiful, rural campus. Bill wanted to create an atmosphere where seniors could experience “country living” and a collegiate atmosphere. Where retirement didn’t mean slowing down, it meant giving back and thriving. Sylvia’s experience volunteering for the local Meals on Wheels program sparked the passion to create Meadowood, as she saw many seniors become isolated in their own homes.
Meadowood recently celebrated their annual Founders’ Day event, honoring a different influential individual(s) each year. The inaugural Founders’ Day in 2016 honored Bill and Sylvia Strasburg. The following year, the honoree was the late Larry Smith, longtime Meadowood board member and former Comcast CFO. This year the honorees were “the class of ’88.” There are five residents at Meadowood that are members of this class. We call them the pioneers!
The Class of ‘88 moved in and created the resident association, started the fitness program, many interest groups and ultimately shaped the culture of the community. Bill Strasburg laid the foundation for a three-legged stool philosophy, which is a guiding principal to this day. Residents, board and management come together to make the decisions that not only affect the day to day operations, but also to shape the future and vision of the community. This can be seen by resident voting members on the Board of Directors as well as residents usually outnumbering board and staff on all board level committees!
Meadowood’s campus has transformed throughout the 30 years, with many updates and additions. The recent addition of the cool-water lap pool has rounded out an already robust and comprehensive wellness program. The pool has even started a new tradition – a staff versus resident water volleyball series!
Throughout the year, Meadowood will celebrate the 30th Anniversary. The wellness courtyard and dining expansion and renovation will open in mid-April, the annual Anniversary dinner in late May and many more events to commemorate this momentous occasion! Stay tuned for updates throughout the year!