Kenosha-based St. Catherine Commons opened its independent living community to residents in January 2005. No one could have predicted that by August 2006, residents would face a yearlong displacement due to a fire on the roofline.
While stressful in the moment, St. Catherine’s leadership now regards the 2006 incident as one of the organization’s greatest success stories. Every single resident came back to the community once the building was rebuilt, a testament to the prominent level of care provided to the residents.
“I think what’s great is that the team always comes together. It’s like how can we help this next generation help families navigate finding their loved ones their next home,” said Maria Feitlich, community relations manager.
St. Catherine Commons operates under the parent company Capri Communities. Founded in 1992 by Jim Tarantino, Capri Communities offers a variety of senior living and care options.
“People can start in independent living; they can move into assisted living and even transition to memory care if needed. What’s special is that we have a lot of communities that are able to provide that continuum of care,” said Feitlich.
This is the case for residents at St. Catherine Commons. The campus provides all three care options and leases 256 rentals.
“This is the resident’s home, and we’re just honored to be able to work in their home,” said Feitlich.
Last month, St. Catherine Commons celebrated its 20th anniversary with a campus-wide party. Residents participated in a proclamation from the City of Kenosha, a ribbon cutting and the recognition of residents who have lived on the campus for 10-plus years.
“Kenosha is a ‘big-small’ community,” said Feitlich. “It’s got over 100,000 folks, but a lot of people have had their roots, have grown their families here… It’s great to even see residents who were former teachers, former nurses in the Kenosha area.”
The celebration not only spotlighted the campus’s longevity in the Kenosha community, but it reaffirmed St. Catherine Commons’ mission of enriching the lives of its residents and the tagline, “Enjoy life!”
Throughout the year, residents can participate in Capri-wide outings like horseback riding, visits to the zoo, movie screenings and Lambeau Field tours.
St. Catherine Commons also creates community engagement for residents through annual charitable partnerships. Feitlich and Kessel shared examples of Easter egg hunts, chili cook-offs and craft fairs.
“We’ve evolved with the life enrichment program…doing more than unfortunately, what people often think of senior living, the activities being bingo and happy hour. It’s so much more,” said Capri Communities Regional Director of Operations, Jennifer Kessel.
St. Catherine Commons has been an MMAC member since 2016, one of the longest-standing members in Kenosha County. Visit St. Catherine Commons’ official website to learn more about their mission and services: https://www.capricommunities.com/st-catherine-commons/
