In 1984, Villa Rose Information Center opened at the corner of Route 140 and Moreland Road. Just a short distance away, developers turned a spade of soil to begin the construction of Villa Rose. They also constructed their purpose for the soon-to-be senior living community—to provide, at a reasonable cost, comfortable housing and related necessities that are fundamental to a secure life.
During the following year, then marketing director, Judy Marquis-Hoffman, and her assistant, Denyse Woody, were busy with inquiries and presentations about Villa Rose. On July 1, 1985, Villa Rose opened its doors as retirement apartments offering seniors a way to remain independent in a secure surrounding. The staff was committed to providing sound management and excellent service. Woody assumed the role of manager in February, 1986, and continues leading the staff to this day.
Not long after opening, Villa Rose recognized that seniors often are motivated to leave their homes and move to a retirement community when health or safety becomes an issue. As an answer to this need, on Feb. 1, 1986, Villa Rose teamed up with Alton Memorial Hospital to become the first of its kind in the area, a senior community that provides health and supportive services to its residents. Before “assisted living” came into being, Villa Rose was offering basic services such as exercise classes, physical therapy, and blood pressure checks. Eventually, the relationship with Alton Memorial was expanded to offer residents even more assistance. In the mid-90’s, Alton Memorial became BJC, and the relationship continues today with BJC Home Care Services on-site helping residents remain as independent as possible.
Woody has watched the community grow and change over 25 years. The exceptionally caring, dedicated staff continuously monitors and evaluates programs to ensure they enhance the physical, emotional and social health of the residents. They are committed to maintaining the building and grounds, making improvements when necessary, and providing a comfortable place for seniors to live. In 2009, smaller apartments were combined to create spacious, newly-renovated suites with full kitchens and large ADA-compliant bathrooms. New sidewalks were added to complete a walking path around the building for active residents. And recently, all of the windows in the building were replaced with new, energy-efficient ones.
Changes and improvements have helped the senior community remain viable and competitive, but the best of Villa Rose has remained the same through the years. Staying true to its original purpose, the staff looks to the future with excitement and encourages seniors to discover the difference at Villa Rose. |
