We are Proud to be a certified Eden Alternative™ Organization

You may ask, what does it mean to be a registered Eden Alternative Community?  All in all, it means that Brethren Retirement Community is committed to creating a healthy human habitat for their elders, and those who care for them.  Further, it is a pledge to strive for the principles and practices of the Eden Alternative.  It is equally important to remember that Eden is a never-ending journey and that work and education are an on-going progression at Brethren Retirement Community.  Keep in mind that Eden Alternative is a journey, not a destination.  The Eden Alternative journey in full incorporation impacts the physical environment, organizational structure, and psycho-social interactions of the organization.

Brethren Retirement Community’s environment is enlivened to resemble a home-like atmosphere. In addition to many planned and spontaneous activities, you will be pleasantly surprised to see animals, live plants, and children!  

We are dedicated to creating active environments and eliminating the plagues of loneliness, helplessness, and boredom.  The Eden Alternative encourages companion animals. They give our residents the opportunity to give meaningful care to other living creatures.  Additionally, we provide and encourage intergenerational activities that provide variety and spontaneity in their day-to-day life. These changes can succeed where pills and therapies fail.

Each and everyday at Brethren Retirement Community, we hear success stories from the residents, staff, and families on how Eden has impacted their environment.  One resident states, "I believe the Eden Alternative is a wonderful idea.  It makes it feel more like home.  I have a good feeling about it.  It makes this a wonderful place to be.  I can do what I want when I want.  The staff considers me a real person.  My care depends on what I need and not what the next person needs.  I also helped pick out the colors and curtain material for the neighborhood spa."

An employee is quick to respond also by saying, "Being part of an Eden Alternative Organization is very uplifting.  The atmosphere is home-like therefore, when I walk into work it feels like a second home and not just a job.  The cats add a nice touch to our community also.  It's wonderful to see the reactions of the residents of the residents and their families when they walk into the room.  They are always willing to love, offer companionship and have filled voids in many resident's lives."

The core concept of The Eden Alternative is strikingly simple - we see our environments as habitats for human beings rather than a facility for the frail and elderly. We encourage living life to the fullest!