The Charles Ford Retirement Communities of New Harmony’s board of directors is announcing its intent to embark on a building project that will expand the Communities’ services to include free-standing independent living structures and additional assisted living capacity.  The independent, not-for-profit, assisted living retirement community’s expansion project will also include the continuing renovation of its current building’s common living areas.

The project advanced to the four- to six-month design phase with a unanimous decision by the Communities’ board.  During the planning process, the services of three consulting firms were contracted. They include GraceTeam of Topeka, Kan.; Universal Design Associates of Jasper, Ind.; and Buckley Consulting Services of Denver, Colo.  Each company provides specific expertise in the development of state-of-the-art independent living and assisted living communities.  

The Master Planning Committee is composed of Vicki Campbell, board president; Richard Diemer, Paul Allison, and Karen Walker, board members; along with Connie Tousley, the Charles Ford Retirement Communities’ Maintenance Director and Amy Koch, Executive Director.

“The new expansion and services answer a need in our community that has been defined through an independent, senior housing market demand study,”said Koch.  “The project is being designed to provide a multitude of additional amenities for our residents and the opportunity for future growth in the services we provide.  Every aspect will be intentionally developed to promote individuality, encourage independence and bring comfort and life enrichment to our residents. 

“Above all,” Koch continued, “what is essential is that our current and future residents receive individualized care and personal attention delivered by a caring, dedicated and professional staff. These characteristics continue to reflect our ongoing mission.”