Rotary Villas expands with additional building

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This article was published 13/02/2025 (385 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Brandon’s Rotary Villas at Crocus Gardens has expanded to meet growing demand for seniors housing, adding a new west-side building with 47 suites to its existing 107-unit complex.

The expansion, which brings the total number of suites to 154, was driven by the increasing need for independent seniors living options in the city.

Executive director Jody Kehler, who has been with Rotary Villas since 2018, said the original building opened on March 1, 2015, and has seen consistent demand over the years. The decision to add more units came in response to requests for more independent living accommodations.

Unlike the original building, which provides full meal service and kitchenette-equipped suites, the new west-side addition offers full kitchens, in-suite washers and dryers, and private balconies.

The addition aims to give residents greater independence while still providing access to Rotary Villas’ services, including cable television, internet, shuttle service, recreation programs and a daily supper.

“The new building was designed to accommodate seniors who want more independence,” Kehler told the Sun.

“Many people moving into our community were requesting kitchen access and more space to maintain their lifestyle.”

The original building includes three daily meals as part of the lease, while the new addition provides one meal per day with an option to purchase additional meals.

Residents in both buildings have full access to all amenities, including fitness centres, social programs and secure 24-hour staff support.

The expansion also includes a gym, a games room and a common area, ensuring residents have ample opportunities to stay active and engaged. A second-floor walkway now connects the two buildings, allowing easy access between the spaces.

“All our residents, whether in the new or original building, can participate in our recreation programs, including social gatherings and live entertainment,” Kehler noted.

Rotary Villas places a strong emphasis on community engagement and wellness. From fitness classes to live entertainment and educational workshops, the facility provides numerous opportunities for residents to interact and stay active. Socialization is a key component of senior living at Rotary Villas, as the staff continually introduce new programs to encourage residents to build friendships and maintain an active lifestyle.

Rotary Villas operates on a month-to-month leasing model with no down payment required. The new suites range from $3,750 to $4,000 per month, depending on size, with an additional $400 fee for a second occupant. The cost includes utilities, cable, internet, housekeeping and security.

Demand for the new suites is already strong, with over 20 per cent spoken for. The first move-ins are expected in early March.

“We’ve had two residents from the original building express interest in moving over, but overall, people are happy where they are,” Kehler said.

With Brandon’s senior population growing, she added, the expansion at Rotary Villas offers more choices for aging residents looking for a balance of independence and community support.

“Rotary Villas offers various services such as housekeeping, meals, recreation, transportation and more,” Kehler said. “The community is designed to support seniors by making life easier and safer while helping maintain their independence.”

The facility is also designed to prioritize residents’ overall well-being. Kehler emphasized that while staff members are available 24/7 to provide assistance, the residents themselves play a major role in creating a supportive and welcoming environment.

“Our staff are always available to answer questions, but it is more than that — the residents are here for each other, too. You gain an entire support system when you move into this amazing community,” she said.

As Rotary Villas continues to grow, it remains committed to adapting to the evolving needs of seniors in Brandon, ensuring they have access to comfortable, independent living spaces while benefiting from a strong sense of community and belonging.

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