Celebrating the 15th Anniversary of Riderwood

Riderwood, the Erickson Living retirement community, kicked-off a month-long celebration to commemorate its 15th anniversary.

Doug Franchot (left), a resident of Riderwood retirement community, presented a citation to Chip Warner (right), executive director, on behalf of State Comptroller Peter Franchot during a luncheon on May 1.

The festivities begin on Friday, May 1 during a luncheon honoring the “founding members” of Riderwood, the 64 pioneer residents and 14 employees who moved in or began working at the campus in 2000.

Special guests included State Senator Jim Rosapepe, former Executive Director Donna Mason and Ms. Patricia Davis, resident member of the Riderwood Board of Directors. Doug Franchot, a resident, presented a proclamation on behalf of Maryland State Comptroller Peter Franchot.

Chip Warner is the Executive Director of Riderwood. “It’s fitting that we begin our fifteenth anniversary celebration by honoring our pioneer residents and employees,” stated Mr. Warner during the anniversary luncheon. “In 2000, they were the first to take the leap of faith on a new idea and a construction site. By having the energy to invest deeply in the community and in each other, they created the foundation for thousands of residents to live better lives in retirement.”

On Saturday, May 2, the community hosted the Riderwood Carnival for residents, employees and family members. The event featured the annual fishing tournament plus live music, circus performers, games and food throughout the campus.

Additionally, each week in May will highlight a different theme of life at Riderwood including events to showcase music, history and the creativity of its residents.

Opened in 2000, the 120-acre campus is home to over 2,500 residents and 1,400 full and part-time employees. Riderwood features 1,903 independent living apartment homes in a variety of floor plans and 306 extended care residences providing assisted living, skilled nursing, short-term rehabilitation and memory care health services.

Its residents have formed 120 groups, clubs and service organizations, and in 2014, contributed more than 109,000 hours of volunteer service on campus and throughout the greater community.

About Jeff Getek

Jeff Getek is the public affairs manager for Riderwood, the Erickson Living retirement community in Silver Spring. He authors the blog The Journey On on MyMCMedia.

View all posts by Jeff Getek