Celebrating CLC’s Golden Jubilee
Clermont Park - Christian Living Communities
Jul 01, 2022
Colorado - Denver Metro
Email US
Click to Email Us
It is our 50th Anniversary celebration week at Christian Living Communities. Team members, residents, families, friends and business partners are gathering for a series of celebrations. As we celebrate, we also recommit ourselves to the sacred work that began more than 50 years ago, below is our story and here are some thoughts from Chaplain Jim Kok during this celebration week.
The Beginning
The story of Christian Living Communities begins in the late 1960’s, when the Board of Directors for Bethesda Hospital made the difficult decision to close their Continuing Care Unit, which had been providing long-term care for seniors.
With hard work, a lot of prayers, goodwill from others, and of course, the grace of God, a small group of dedicated community members made up of the Reformed and Christian Reformed churches, as well as members from the Bethesda Hospital opened the University Hills Christian Nursing Home on May 7, 1972. They started with just two thousand dollars in the bank. Yet, what they lacked in funding, they made up for in determination and love.
“What can you do with two-thousand dollars, even back then 50 years ago, not much”. So there was some struggling… it was good that Bethesda came on board… it all worked out well, never had doubts… a lot of prayer went into it. God led it all the way, without him it probably wouldn’t be here today.”
–Earl Lammers, the liaison between the Bethesda and University Hills Christian Nursing Home Association, former board member, and current Clermont Park resident
A plea for support went out in early 1970 by way of advertisements in The Banner and Church Herald magazines that offered non-secured “promissory notes.” Constituents overwhelmingly responded by purchasing notes totaling $627,000.
It was kinda of fun as well bringing on the sweat, a few tears sometimes, but we seemed to be blessed with success.”
– Elmer Houtsma, original nursing home administrator and former Clermont Park resident
Construction began and those early volunteers, board members, and founders poured a lot of themselves into building University Hills Christian Nursing Home. Contractor Don Jeltema essentially built the 62-bed nursing home at cost.
“It was his vision to provide for the elderly . . . he knew older people don’t like to be put on the shelf.”
– Dottie Jeltema, original volunteer, wife of the former Don Jeltema, and former resident of Someren Glen
“We would go and sweep the floors so it would be clean for the next day and when the windows got put it we went and washed the windows and when the furniture was brought over that had been stored in a barn we washed all the furniture down – so it was just exciting, we could see the progress we were making, they were such good memories.”
– Mary Ham original volunteer, wife of the former Rod Ham who served on the original board, and current Clermont Park resident
Visionary Then, Visionary Now
A window for every resident – sounds common, but even today some skilled nursing communities are built with companion suites that have beds side by side, with only one window for residents to share. In 1972, with dignity and respect as the cornerstone, our founders ensured a window for each person to enjoy fresh air and a beautiful view.
Advocacy is also at the foundation of CLC. Instead of ‘Mr. Smith Goes to Washington”, we had Elmer Houtsma Goes to Washington. In the ‘70s, Congress passed legislation mandating each nursing home must have a Medical Director – little direction, no provisions for funding, legislation without a nod towards implementation. Mr. Houtsma, our first administrator, was relentless in his advocacy for nursing home rights and influenced the further clarification and financial support for the start of programs.
Elmer Houtsma also signed CLC on as an early member of a statewide senior care advocacy group then called the Colorado Associate of Homes for the Aging (CAHA), now known as Leading Age Colorado. CLC’s faithful support helped Leading Age grow from just a few care providers to the 200 strong members it is today.
CLC helped pioneer the assisted living option in the state of Colorado. It was among the first to develop a care level offering help with dressing, medications, and meals to seniors who didn’t fit skilled nursing criteria but weren’t safe at home. CLC was also one of the first organizations to introduce Life Plan Communities in the Denver metro area.
Jubilantly Moving Forward in Our Golden Jubilee Year
In the spirit of our founding, Christian Living Communities continues to look at dignity in the details. Instead of windows, it is details like choice dining and resident-directed services. CLC is one of the national leaders in providing what is known as person-directed care and a citizenship culture. This means the organization sees itself as a partner to older adults in supporting autonomy, purpose, and true belonging, in an age-positive and ability-inclusive environment. CLC also continues its presence in the national discussion with executive leadership serving on multiple advocacy committees.
By creating a consulting and management division known as Cappella Living Solutions in 2014, CLC also looks to serve more older adults in need of our care and services. Through this work, CLC has extended its mission reach outside of Colorado to mission-aligned for-profit ownership groups by serving as a third-party manager.
As of this May, CLC touches the lives of more than 2,000 older adults daily at 13 senior living communities in three states. In addition, CLC owns and operates Denver-based home care service, Rhythms Home Care, and is revolutionizing aging services with programs, services, and care that honor and respect older adults more than ever before with purpose-filled living.
The last few years have been very difficult; weathering the global COVID-19 pandemic, national workforce shortages, and the rise of inflation are all difficult waters to maneuver. But we know, as it was in the beginning, it is now, we can do hard things.
“We know from the stories of those who were part of the founding that people came together, overcame obstacles and did what needed to be done to ensure that the vision of University Hills Christian Nursing Home would become a reality. That steadfast faith and commitment to our organization’s important work and mission have led CLC to weather the storms and impact the lives of thousands of people over our 50 years of service.”
– Jill Vitale-Aussem, current CLC President & CEO
As it was then, it is now, and it will be in the future – CLC is an impactful organization.
Christian Living Communities remains a locally owned and operated, faith-based non-profit that is committed to creating a culture of belonging for everyone, residents, team members, and families. Conservatively we estimate we’ve served more than 25,000 older adults and their families in our 50 years of service.
We are humble and we are grateful for the gift we received; a fantastic organization. We are resolved to continue building on the foundation laid long ago to reach out to those who could benefit from our services and be involved in the community around us. Our deep roots will continue to lead to extraordinary new growth.
Other Articles You May Like
The Cost of Senior Living: Understanding Your Options
Planning for the next chapter in life comes with many decisionsand one of the biggest questions seniors and their families face is: What will senior living cost, and how can we prepare? With a variety of care levels and housing options available, understanding the true cost of senior living is essential for making confident, informed choices.In this guide, well explore what impacts the cost of senior living, break down common types of care and pricing structures, and offer tips to help you find the right fit for your needs and budget.Why Understanding the Cost of Senior Living MattersWhether youre a senior looking to downsize or a caregiver researching options for a loved one, budgeting for senior living can feel overwhelming. Monthly expenses, care services, insurance, and long-term needs all factor into the equation. By understanding the cost of senior living ahead of time, you can avoid surprises, plan accordingly, and ensure the best possible quality of life.Key Factors That Affect the Cost of Senior LivingSeveral variables influence what youll pay for senior living. Location is one of the biggest factorscommunities in metropolitan or coastal areas tend to have higher rates. The level of care you need, the size of your living space, and the amenities offered (like dining plans, transportation, or wellness programs) will also affect the overall cost.Generally, the more specialized the caresuch as memory care or skilled nursingthe higher the cost.Understanding Your Senior Living OptionsIndependent Living: Designed for seniors who are still active and need little to no assistance, independent living communities offer private apartments with access to social activities and amenities. These typically cost between $2,000$4,000 per month.Assisted Living: For those who need help with daily tasks like bathing, dressing, or medication management, assisted living provides personalized care in a residential setting. Monthly rates range from $3,500$6,500 depending on services and location.Memory Care: This specialized form of assisted living supports individuals with Alzheimers or dementia. Memory care includes additional security, staff training, and programs, with costs averaging $4,000$7,000 per month.Skilled Nursing Facilities: For seniors who need medical supervision or rehabilitation, skilled nursing offers 24/7 care. These facilities are often covered in part by Medicare for short-term stays, but long-term care can exceed $8,000 monthly.Home Care Services: For those wishing to age in place, home care provides assistance right at home. Services include companionship, personal care, and nursing, and typically cost between $20$35 per hour.Senior Housing Financial Planning TipsWhen planning for senior living, consider these financial tips:Start Early: Begin exploring your options before a crisis occurs. This allows time to evaluate costs, benefits, and locations with less stress.Assess Your Finances: Understand your monthly income, assets, insurance coverage, and long-term financial goals.Explore Funding Sources: Medicare, Medicaid, veterans benefits, long-term care insurance, and reverse mortgages may help offset costs. Be sure to consult with a financial advisor or elder law professional for guidance.Ask for Price Transparency: Some communities offer all-inclusive rates, while others use tiered pricing based on care levels. Dont hesitate to request a full breakdown of costs and whats included.Use a Trusted Resource: Seniors Blue Book offers a comprehensive directory of senior housing and services across the country. You can filter by care level, location, and even price to help narrow your options quickly and confidently.Common Mistakes to AvoidDont wait too long to planemergency decisions often lead to rushed and expensive choices. Avoid assuming one size fits all; different communities offer different atmospheres and services. Lastly, dont overlook additional costs like transportation, supplies, or lifestyle preferences, which can add up.How Seniors Blue Book Can HelpAt Seniors Blue Book, we make it easier for seniors, caregivers, and families to navigate the cost of senior living with confidence. Our free online directory helps you compare communities, home care providers, and senior-focused services in your area.We provide practical, up-to-date information on everything from financial planning to choosing the right housingensuring you have access to the tools and resources you need to make empowered decisions.Final ThoughtsSenior living is not one-size-fits-all. Understanding the cost of senior living and exploring your options early on allows you to align care needs with budget goalswhile also giving peace of mind to your family.If youre beginning to research senior living, or need help comparing costs and care options, were here to support you every step of the way. Seniors Blue Book is your go-to source for trusted senior resources, housing directories, and expert insights.Lets make your search easier and smarter.Contact Seniors Blue Book today at hello@seniorsbluebook.com or call 800-201-9989 for a free consultation. Well provide you with a personalized care and financial assessment, along with helpful tips you can implement right away. Explore your options with confidencebecause informed decisions lead to better outcomes.
The Mouth is the Gateway to the Bodyand the Brain, too
Oral health is about much more than a clean smile. For older adults, brushing and flossing can become difficult due to arthritis, memory loss, or physical limitations. When dental care is missed, harmful bacteria build up. And they dont stay in the mouth.Research has found links between gum disease and a range of serious health issues: heart disease, pneumonia, diabetes complications, and more recently, dementia. In studies, bacteria associated with gum infections have even been found in the brains of people with Alzheimers disease, suggesting a role in inflammation and cognitive decline.The good (but not-so-new) news? Professional cleanings and oral screenings help reduce bacteria, spot issues early, and protect overall health. And theyre not just for those with medical conditionseven healthy individuals benefit from reaching the areas daily brushing and flossing miss.Dental care is healthcare. For aging adults, it plays a vital role in maintaining comfort, dignity, and quality of life.Mouth health is whole-body healthespecially as we age. Editors Note: This article was submitted by Jacob H. Nguyen, RDH. Jacob is a Direct Access Dental Hygienist and Founder of Dental Carvan. For more information he may be reached at 303-210-0999.
Making the Move Easier: 6 Tips for Seniors and Caregivers Navigating a Big Transition
Whether your aging parent is transitioning to assisted living, downsizing to a senior apartment, or moving in with family, planning ahead can ease the stress for everyone involved. Moving in later life comes with unique emotional and physical challenges, but you dont have to do it alone.As a senior living placement company in the Greater Pittsburgh area, weve helped many local families navigate this journey with confidence and compassion. Here are six practical tips to support you and your loved one every step of the way.1. Start Small and Share the LoadLets face it: a lifetime of memories can be hard to pack. Many older adults have spent decades in the same home, surrounded by treasured keepsakes and familiar routines. The thought of letting go can be overwhelming.Heres how to lighten the emotional load: Begin with low-sentiment spaces like guest rooms or bathrooms. That first win builds momentum. Sort together. Create keep, donate, and pass along piles. Encourage your loved one to gift meaningful items to children, grandchildren, or close friends. Make it meaningful. Donating to local Pittsburgh charities or giving heirlooms to family members can bring peace of mind. 2. Consider Senior Move Management ServicesHiring a professional can make a world of difference. While friends and family are often eager to help, a neutral third party especially one trained in working with older adults can ease tension and smooth the process.Look for services like: Senior move managers who specialize in downsizing and relocation for older adults. Companies affiliated with the National Association of Senior Move Managers (NASMM) for trustworthy help. Local resources in Pittsburgh that offer packing, organizing, estate sales, and post-move support. If youre juggling work, caregiving, and moving logistics, outsourcing some of these tasks can give you much-needed peace of mind.3. Make Travel Safe and ComfortableGetting from point A to point B isnt always easy for older adults. Whether youre moving your loved one across town or across state lines, transportation should fit their health and comfort needs.Travel tips for seniors: Add buffer time. Frequent breaks help with circulation and comfort. Plan around mobility needs. For flights, request wheelchair service and pre-boarding. For car trips, pack medications, snacks, and extra pillows. Look into senior transportation services. In Pittsburgh and beyond, some companies offer non-emergency medical transport, including services equipped with stretchers, wheelchairs, or even nursing staff. 4. Set Up Health Care Before the MoveA new ZIP code may mean a new doctor, pharmacy, and care team. Take care of these logistics early to ensure a smooth transition especially if your loved one has ongoing health needs.To-do list: Transfer prescriptions to a nearby pharmacy. Verify insurance coverage in the new area check which local specialists and clinics are in-network. Connect with a geriatric care manager. These experts often know the best local healthcare providers and in-home care agencies in Western PA. Having a plan in place ensures continuity of care from day one.5. Help the New Space Feel Like HomeEven if the new apartment or assisted living suite is smaller, it can still feel cozy, familiar, and full of life. Small touches make a big difference.Ideas to personalize the new home: Recreate familiar spaces by placing photos and dcor just as they were before (snap a few reference photos before packing). Unpack favorite blankets, books, or that special coffee mug first. Bring beloved furniture or artwork, and explore fun updates like a new recliner or colorful accent wall. Many senior living communities surrounding Pittsburgh encourage residents to decorate their rooms to reflect their style this helps ease the emotional transition.6. Emphasize the PositivesYour loved one may be leaving behind a house filled with memories, but theyre also stepping into a new chapter one filled with support, activities, and connection.Help them see the bright side: Less worry. No more home maintenance or mowing the lawn. More connection. Many assisted living communities offer events, exercise classes, and outings. Opportunities for joy. Explore local senior centers, volunteer programs, or art classes in their new neighborhood. Encourage them to explore and celebrate whats next.Ready to Take the Next Step?Moving a senior loved one can feel like a huge undertaking but you dont have to navigate it alone. As a trusted senior living advisor in Pittsburgh, weve helped thousands of families find the right care options, whether it's assisted living, independent living, memory care, or downsizing solutions. Let us guide you through the process from personalized placement help to local resource referrals. Contact us today at Serving Our Seniors to speak with a compassionate senior care advisor who truly understands the Pittsburgh area.
Local Services By This Author
Clermont Park - Christian Living Communities
Assisted Living 2479 South Clermont Street, Denver, Colorado, 80222Since our founding in 1972, Clermont Park has a proven history of providing exceptional senior lifestyles and care. Studio and one bedroom apartment homes offer apartment-style living with the support of a caring, trained staff to assist with activities of daily living. Basic services include meals, weekly housekeeping and laundry, wellness programs, spiritual support and planned activities. Additional service packages are available as needs change. Call for a personal visit today!
Clermont Park - Christian Living Communities
Skilled Nursing 2480 South Clermont Street, Denver, Colorado, 80222Since our founding in 1972, Clermont Park has had a proven history of providing exceptional senior lifestyles and services. Our skilled nursing offers around-the-clock care by licensed and certified nursing staff trained to provide a high level of medical assistance. And like everything at Clermont Park, these top-quality services are delivered with attention to the individual, and in a way that gives residents the freedom to enjoy life as they choose. Residents receive the specialized service they need in a supportive, dignified setting, leaving them free to focus on getting the most out of each day. Call for a personal visit today!
Clermont Park - Christian Living Communities
Independent Living 2479 South Clermont Street, Denver, Colorado, 80222Since our founding in 1972, Clermont Park has had a proven history of providing exceptional senior lifestyles and services. Clermont Park offers a full continuum of care and services including assisted living, memory support and skilled nursing. Clermont Parks Residential Living offers affordable one and two-bedroom apartments in a well-established residential neighborhood. All apartments have full kitchens and private baths. Accepting private pay and subsidized rental applications, we comply with the Fair Housing Act. Refundable entrance fee residential apartment homes offering beautifully appointed, maintenance free, active retirement living options. Clermont Park residential living offers peace of mind and real financial protection. At Clermont Park our Deep Roots lead to Your New Growth. Call today for a personal visit today!