Submitted by Mindi Baker, CEO
Eventide Senior Living Community is excited to celebrate we have been serving the senior population for 60 years!
Since 1963, Eventide has been a recognized leader in providing senior care and housing services to the Crawford County area and surrounding communities.
While much has changed since 1963, our focus towards our nonprofit mission remains constant. Many who are involved with Eventide quickly realize the nonprofit difference where the bottom line is reinvested into services for residents, families and employees.
We have reinvested in our campus over the last six decades growing from one building to four as well as establishing the Eventide Foundation. The housing services consist of Gracewell Nursing Facility, Silveridge Assisted Living, Realife Cooperative, and Heritage Heights. With all of these accommodations, we are able to provide services to nearly 200 people every day. Our campus provides lifestyle choices for seniors, as the area’s only continuum care community.
As we reflect back, many members in our community have played a significant role in the success of Eventide. We are fortunate to work with healthcare providers, local community leaders, team members, and volunteers who have given guidance and support through the years. We work together for a common purpose, so Eventide Senior Living can continue as a leader and resource in the region for comprehensive aging services.
In the 1950’s, the growing problem of having adequate housing with care locally for seniors was recognized. Then, Denison and surrounding communities took action and joined with Lutheran churches for the construction and operation of a retirement home. A non-profit corporation was formed to represent the various communities which still exists today.
To finance our first project, a group of eight men met with the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). Despite the fact the Eventide application would be one of the first in Iowa to be approved for FHA insurance, and even in the nation, these leaders were determined to find their way through government red tape. The Denison Chamber of Commerce conducted the building campaign. Following the successful fund drives, countless meetings and all the government regulations, bids were opened October 1961. Total cost of the building was $440,000.00.
Eventide welcomed its first resident on Sunday, April 1st, 1963!
The story of Eventide is one that stands as an outstanding example of the benefits a community receives when served leaders of vision, faith and purpose.
As our story developed, each tasks had its own set of challenges and took strong determination to continue forward. As we look back at the past 60 years, there is great pride for all that has been accomplished. And, we are not done yet. We are just as excited about the vision for our future and those we serve.
Our heartfelt thanks to all for your support, dedication and loyalty as we reminisce the past, cherish the present, and plan our vision for the future.
