Category Archives: continuing care retirement community

Hillcrest Announces Second Annual UnityFest Celebrating Community, Inclusion, and Belonging

UnityFest reflects Hillcrest’s longstanding commitment to fostering a culture where everyone feels valued, respected, and connected

LA VERNE, Calif., June 24, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Hillcrest, a nonprofit continuing care retirement community in La Verne, will host its second annual UnityFest, bringing together residents, families, employees, volunteers, community partners, and guests on June 26 from 10:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. at the Hillcrest campus, 2705 Mountain View Drive, La Verne, CA 91750. Dedicated to connection, celebration, and inclusion, UnityFest celebrates Pride and the spirit of commUnity!

IMAGE caption: Hillcrest invites the community to join its second annual Unity Fest on June 26 from 10:30 am – 1:00 pm at its La Verne campus, 2705 Mountain View Drive, La Verne, CA 91750. UnityFest celebrates connection, inclusion, Pride, and the spirit of commUnity.

Attendees can enjoy barbecue and music, along with a resource fair, while connecting with neighbors and friends from diverse backgrounds. Aiden Aizumi from PFLAG LA will speak during UnityFest at 12:00 p.m. at the Hillcrest Meeting House.

“The strength of Hillcrest comes from its residents, employees, families, and volunteers, who share a commitment to creating a welcoming, inclusive, and vibrant place to call home,” said Jack Meek, resident and chairman of the Hillcrest Board of Directors. “We look forward to hosting our second annual UnityFest, a celebration of our commitment to being an inclusive, welcoming community where people from all backgrounds can connect, engage, and feel a sense of belonging.”

COMMUNITY PARTNERS PARTICIPATING IN UNITYFEST INCLUDE:

La Verne Community Center

Tri City Mental Health

Aging Next

Amada Senior Care

LA County Department of Public Health

Hillcrest Retirement Community

Pomona Valley Pride

Alzheimer’s Association California Southland Chapter

PFLAG LA

Pilgrim Place

UnityFest reflects Hillcrest’s longstanding commitment to fostering a culture where everyone feels valued, respected, and connected.

“During this year’s Pride Month celebration, we recognize that Pride is not only celebrated in June, but every day, Pride 365. As community partners throughout the Pomona Valley, Pomona Valley Pride is proud to extend our collaboration with Hillcrest in La Verne. Unity Fest celebrates the spirit of community by bringing together people from all walks of life while honoring our intergenerational community, where we continue to learn, grow, and support one another,” said Edgar Jacuinde, Program Director of Pomona Valley Pride. “Pomona Valley Pride looks forward to celebrating with Hillcrest in honor of Pride Month and continuing to build spaces where we uplift each other, show support, and strengthen our community every day.”

Hillcrest was founded by the same progressive Brethren who established the University of La Verne. As one of the Historic Peace Churches committed to justice, equality, and radical inclusion, it has a legacy of welcoming people of all ages, backgrounds, and orientations.

“We invite our neighbors to join us at UnityFest,” said Shirley Turner, Director of Sales and Marketing at Hillcrest. “We believe that a strong community is built on meaningful connections and a genuine sense of belonging.”

ABOUT HILLCREST

Hillcrest is an upscale 501(c)(3) nonprofit continuing care retirement community (CCRC) centrally located in the San Gabriel Valley, less than 30 minutes from Los Angeles, Anaheim, Pasadena, and San Bernardino and at the gateway to the Inland Empire. Located in a quiet residential neighborhood just off Foothill Boulevard in La Verne, California, Hillcrest offers independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing with an emphasis on wellness and health. For more information, visit https://livingathillcrest.org/.

MULTIMEDIA:

IMAGE link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/26-0624-s2p-hillcrest-300dpi.webp

NEWS SOURCE: Hillcrest

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (Hillcrest), who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. Image, if any, was provided by the news source and not this website or the wire service. Information is believed accurate, as provided by the news source, but is not guaranteed.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/hillcrest-announces-second-annual-unityfest-celebrating-community-inclusion-and-belonging/

Hillcrest Gallery Showcases Ganesha High School Student Art Honoring Black History Month

LA VERNE, Calif., Feb. 12, 2026 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — The Gallery at Hillcrest will host an on-site showcase of advanced art by Ganesha High School students in grades 10 through 12, opening February 20 in celebration of Black History Month. Hillcrest is a nonprofit senior community that supports local artists through its on-campus gallery.

Photo caption: The Gallery at Hillcrest will showcase an exhibit featuring Ganesha High School students’ graphite portraits and graphic art in honor of Black History Month, starting Feb. 20.

Titled “Acknowledgement of Influence,” the exhibit will feature graphite portraits and graphic art honoring influential African American figures in the students’ lives.

“I was introduced to The Gallery at Hillcrest by my mother, Gwen Carr, who is a Hillcrest resident,” said Kevin Tharpe, Ganesha art instructor. “My advanced art students have been working very hard on their creations, as well as the essays each will present to explain their piece.”

The gallery opening will take place on Friday, February 20, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at The Gallery at Hillcrest, located at 2705 Mountain View Drive, La Verne, CA 91750. The exhibit runs through March. Hillcrest will be presenting certificates of honor to the students during the opening.

Barbara Smythe, manager of The Gallery at Hillcrest, says, “We are so fortunate to celebrate the work of Kevin and his advanced art students at their third gallery opening. Each of their shows has been unique, not only in its art form but also in its subject matter. It’s an art experience for all ages, including the students, our residents and patrons.”

The student gallery show is a rewarding experience for both the students and Tharpe. “Some of my past students who have graduated have returned to tell me how much participating in the gallery impacted them. Not only through their artistic expressions, but in building confidence, speaking in front of an audience, describing their motivations and technique.”

In addition to teaching, Tharpe is the founder of TFGlab.com (Tharpe Flavored Graphics), where he creates custom graphics, photography, app design, freehand graphite drawings and stippling. Select works by Tharpe will also be on display at The Gallery at Hillcrest.

As a local nonprofit, The Gallery at Hillcrest supports local artists and features rotating exhibits that highlight cultural diversity and enrich the community through opening receptions, learning opportunities, and ways to spark conversation.

About Hillcrest

MULTIMEDIA:

Photo link: https://liveathillcrest.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Ganesha-High-School-students-graphite-portraits.png

Photo caption: The Gallery at Hillcrest will showcase an exhibit featuring Ganesha High School students’ graphite portraits and graphic art in honor of Black History Month, starting Feb. 20.

NEWS SOURCE: Hillcrest

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/hillcrest-gallery-showcases-ganesha-high-school-student-art-honoring-black-history-month/

A New Kind of Welcome: Hillcrest Invites Older Adults to Try Its Wellness Lifestyle – Before Moving In

LA VERNE, Calif., Nov. 12, 2025 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Hillcrest, one of Southern California’s leading Continuing Care Retirement Communities, invites older adults to join a truly special health and wellness program. For a limited time, anyone who joins Hillcrest’s Resident Registrant List will receive a complimentary one-year membership to the Hillcrest Aquatic and Fitness Center.

Image caption: Hillcrest, one of Southern California’s leading Continuing Care Retirement Communities, is offering members of its registrant list a complimentary one-year membership to its Aquatic and Fitness Center, which includes cardiovascular classes, strength training and aquatic fitness.

“Health and well-being go far beyond exercise,” said Ryan Harrison, PsyD, Certified Wellness Professional and Hillcrest’s Director of Resident Life and Wellness. “We focus on helping people find joy, connection, and purpose. Our goal is to help each person live vibrantly in every season of life.”

The program is open to local community members age 60 and older, not just residents. Even those on Hillcrest’s waiting list can take advantage of a free year of membership (a $60 monthly value). Members have access to classes offered at Hillcrest’s Aquatic and Fitness Center, including aquatic fitness classes in the heated pool and strength and balance-focused chair fitness classes

Hillcrest takes a whole-person approach to health and happiness, with a wellness philosophy guided by seven key dimensions that work together to support a meaningful and healthy life. These include: Body, Mind, Spirit, Environment, Emotions, Relationships, and Pursuits.

“Research continues to show that staying active, socially connected, and engaged leads to longer, happier lives,” said Harrison. “This free membership helps people experience that for themselves.”

Hillcrest’s new membership program is part of its commitment to community wellness and outreach. With the population living longer, it is the perfect time to commit to your health and well-being, says Harrison. Joining the fitness center supports overall well-being by fostering social connections, which recent research shows is an essential factor in healthy aging.

The offer gives participants access to professional wellness resources that are typically found only in senior living communities.

Hillcrest offers a variety of living options, including independent living in homes, cottages, and apartments, and a full continuum of care that includes assisted living, skilled nursing, and memory care. Community amenities include dining services, a fitness center, swimming pools, and organized activities for a vibrant, maintenance-free lifestyle.

About Hillcrest

Hillcrest is an upscale 501(c)(3) nonprofit continuing care retirement community (CCRC) centrally located in the San Gabriel Valley, less than 30 minutes from Los Angeles, Anaheim, Pasadena, and San Bernardino and located at the gateway to the Inland Empire. Located in a quiet residential neighborhood just off Foothill Boulevard in La Verne, California, Hillcrest offers independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing with an emphasis on wellness and health. For more information, visit: https://liveathillcrest.org/.

NEWS SOURCE: Hillcrest

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/a-new-kind-of-welcome-hillcrest-invites-older-adults-to-try-its-wellness-lifestyle-before-moving-in/

Hillcrest CEO Matthew Neeley Recognized as Outstanding Community Leader for Compassionate Leadership and Community Service

LA VERNE, Calif., May 30, 2025 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Matthew Neeley, President and CEO of Hillcrest, an age-qualified community in La Verne, was recently honored as an Outstanding Community Leader at the NAACP Pomona Valley Branch 6th Annual Freedom Fund Event. Through his compassionate leadership and steadfast commitment to serving others, Neeley has led efforts that uplift individuals, bridge divides and build a stronger, more inclusive community.

Image caption: L to R – California Attorney General Rob Bonta presented an award to Hillcrest CEO Matthew Neely after his keynote address at the NAACP Pomona Valley Branch’s 6th Annual Freedom Fund Event.

“We celebrate Matthew Neeley for his dedicated service to the city of Pomona and surrounding communities and honor him for his compassion, generosity, and commitment to serving our community,” said Jeanette EllisRoyston, President of the NAACP Pomona Valley Branch.

This philosophy of service was evident during Hillcrest’s rapid response to the Eaton Fire, which displaced senior residents from The Terraces at Park Marino. Upon receiving a call for assistance, Neeley and his team mobilized within 24 hours to prepare fully furnished, move-in-ready apartments. The displaced seniors were welcomed into the Hillcrest community with care and dignity.

“A great community leader clears the runway for meaningful change, ensuring that good things happen for those in need,” said Neeley. “If each of us uses the influence we have in service of others, we will create stronger, more connected communities.”

Image caption: L to R – President Jeanette EllisRoyston, NAACP Pomona Valley Chapter, honored Hillcrest CEO Matthew Neely as Outstanding Community Leader.

In another act of compassionate leadership, Neeley responded to the urgent needs of an Afghan refugee family—providing a safe home on the Hillcrest campus and rallying local faith communities to help them transition to life in the U.S. Today, the children are thriving in school and the parents are employed in their new community.

During a moment of national reckoning in 2020, Neeley listened as a Hillcrest resident shared her sorrow in the wake of George Floyd’s murder, recalling decades of civil rights struggles. Deeply moved, he wrote a poem that expressed solidarity and hope, which sparked meaningful conversations within the Hillcrest community. He later shared a public letter with 35 peer CEOs, encouraging empathy-driven leadership and continued progress toward equity and understanding. This spirit of unity led to new internal initiatives that continue to foster cultural awareness and dialogue at Hillcrest today.

“Caring for others in times of crisis is at the heart of Hillcrest’s mission,” said Neeley. “We don’t just serve our own residents—we serve the larger community as well.”

About Hillcrest

Hillcrest is an upscale 501(c)(3) nonprofit continuing care retirement community (CCRC) centrally located in the San Gabriel Valley, less than 30 minutes from Los Angeles, Anaheim, Pasadena and San Bernardino and located at the gateway to the Inland Empire. Located in a quiet residential neighborhood just off Foothill Boulevard in La Verne, California, Hillcrest offers independent living, assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing with an emphasis on wellness and health. For more information, visit: https://liveathillcrest.org/.

NEWS SOURCE: Hillcrest

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/hillcrest-ceo-matthew-neeley-recognized-as-outstanding-community-leader-for-compassionate-leadership-and-community-service/

Joel Brouwer Honored as CFO of the Year – Small to Midsize Company at 2025 LA Executive Leadership Awards

LA VERNE, Calif., May 22, 2025 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Hillcrest, an age-qualified community in La Verne, proudly announces that Chief Financial Officer Joel Brouwer, CPA, CGMA, has been recognized as the CFO of the Year in the Small to Midsize Company category at the 2025 LA Executive Leadership Awards, an event celebrating leaders across Southern California who exemplify excellence, vision and resilience.

Image caption: Joel Brouwer, CFO, Hillcrest, honored as CFO of the Year – Small to Midsize Company.

This year’s honoree awards were given to standout finalists who have demonstrated grace, growth and grit over the past 24 months in their respective fields. Joel Brouwer’s leadership at Hillcrest stood out among his peers, earning him the top honor in his category.

With more than 20 years of experience in the financial sector, Brouwer brought a wealth of financial and strategic expertise to Hillcrest when he joined the organization in 2023. His transition to the senior living sector was driven by a personal caregiving experience that ignited a deep commitment to compassionate elder care.

Since stepping into his role, Brouwer has been instrumental in strengthening financial operations, enhancing long-term sustainability and supporting initiatives that improve the quality of life for the community’s residents.

“Joel brings not only technical expertise but a heart-centered approach to leadership that has elevated every part of our organization,” said Matthew Neeley, CEO of Hillcrest. “This recognition is a powerful reflection of his dedication and impact.”

This prestigious award honors Brouwer’s professional excellence and reflects Hillcrest’s continued leadership in senior care services across Southern California.

About Hillcrest:

Hillcrest is an upscale 501(c)(3) nonprofit continuing care retirement community (CCRC) centrally located in the San Gabriel Valley, less than 30 minutes from Los Angeles, Anaheim, Pasadena and San Bernardino and located at the gateway to the Inland Empire. Located in a quiet residential neighborhood just off Foothill Boulevard in La Verne, California, Hillcrest offers independent living, assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing with an emphasis on wellness and health. For more information, visit: https://liveathillcrest.org/.

NEWS SOURCE: Hillcrest

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/joel-brouwer-honored-as-cfo-of-the-year-small-to-midsize-company-at-2025-la-executive-leadership-awards/

Senior Communities Unite to Support Displaced Seniors After the Eaton Fire

LA VERNE, Calif., Jan. 23, 2025 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — In a remarkable display of compassion and community spirit, Hillcrest, an age-qualified community in La Verne is showing what it means to be a good neighbor by helping seniors displaced by the devastating Eaton Fire. Hillcrest offered seniors housing and a chance to rebuild their lives with a new home. The fire destroyed The Terraces at Park Marino in Pasadena, leaving many residents, including those with significant health needs, without a place to call home.

Image caption: Hillcrest, an age-qualified community in La Verne.

Within just 24 hours of receiving a call for assistance from The Terraces at Park Marino, Hillcrest’s Director of Sales and Marketing, Shirley Turner, and her team mobilized to welcome eight new residents into their community. Hillcrest staff worked tirelessly around the clock to prepare fully furnished, move-in-ready apartments for the displaced residents.

“Our team’s immediate response reflects the heart of Hillcrest’s mission: to care for others in need,” said Turner. “The collaboration with The Terraces at Park Marino underscores the power of communities coming together in times of crisis.”

Hillcrest went above and beyond to ensure a warm and supportive transition for the new residents. Team members purchased essential items and furnished their new residences, while staff from food service and nursing care joined the residents for meals to extend a heartfelt welcome.

As part of their disaster response plan, Hillcrest made special accommodations by conducting personalized assessments to address each resident’s unique care needs. Hillcrest’s Resident Association is also working to provide each newly welcomed resident with a gift card so they may purchase their personal essential items.

Former Terrace residents now residing at Hillcrest, including Jennie Frederick and Oliver Meeker, share their personal stories of resilience and their experiences in their new home.

Meeker recalls seeing the fire “out my window coming down the hill and then coming across the fields, but I didn’t imagine it would be allowed to get to us. But with the wind, they just couldn’t handle it.” Upon arriving at Hillcrest, Meeker is getting settled. “This is a nice place. Nice food. I’m doing okay.”

Frederick remembers the warm welcome they received when arriving at Hillcrest. “When we got out, everybody – all the employees – even the ones that weren’t on duty, just came flying in and helped. It was really organized.” It was a relief as the seniors had spent about three days at the convention center and then we were taken to the Pico District in L.A., near Santa Monica. “We just had what was on our backs and a lot of us didn’t have our phones. I was one of the ones that didn’t have my phone. And we thought, hey, you know, we’re not in the fire, so we’re good to go. I was amazed at how organized the fire department, police department and everything was, working together to get us to safety.”

Stories of the evacuation include heroic acts during the fire, such as team members carrying residents out of the burning building and a bus driver who stayed with evacuees overnight to ensure their safety. “We didn’t know where the rest of the people went. We didn’t know where we were going. Our van driver brought us here, and she just told us we’re going to La Verne,” remembers Frederick.

“These acts of bravery and kindness remind us of the strength and humanity in our communities,” said Turner. “We are honored to be part of their journey toward recovery.”

The new Hillcrest residents, now located about 25 miles east of Pasadena, are finding comfort in their new environment, thanks to the unwavering support of both Hillcrest and The Terraces at Park Marino teams.

About Hillcrest:

Hillcrest is an upscale 501(c)(3) non-profit continuing care retirement community (CCRC) centrally located in the San Gabriel Valley, less than 30 minutes from Los Angeles, Anaheim, Pasadena and San Bernardino and located at the gateway to the Inland Empire. Located in a quiet residential neighborhood just off Foothill Boulevard in La Verne, California, Hillcrest offers independent living, assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing with an emphasis on wellness and health. For more information, visit: https://liveathillcrest.org/.

NEWS SOURCE: Hillcrest

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/senior-communities-unite-to-support-displaced-seniors-after-the-eaton-fire/

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Category Archives: continuing care retirement community

Hillcrest Announces Second Annual UnityFest Celebrating Community, Inclusion, and Belonging

Hillcrest Gallery Showcases Ganesha High School Student Art Honoring Black History Month

A New Kind of Welcome: Hillcrest Invites Older Adults to Try Its Wellness Lifestyle – Before Moving In

Hillcrest CEO Matthew Neeley Recognized as Outstanding Community Leader for Compassionate Leadership and Community Service

Joel Brouwer Honored as CFO of the Year – Small to Midsize Company at 2025 LA Executive Leadership Awards