July 23, 2025 —2024 was a year of significant achievements and meaningful progress across the Kendal System. The Kendal Corporation is honored to reflect on and celebrate the efforts of residents, employees and members who embody the responsibility of leading with purpose.
Highlighting Purpose-Driven Leadership
Throughout this collection of stories from across our System, each Kendal Affiliate has demonstrated inspiring leadership and creativity, showcasing initiatives transforming how older adults age and interact with the world around them. Communities have prioritized programs that foster meaningful connections, champion environmental stewardship and harness best practices to improve quality of life.
Initiatives that Inspire — Highlights from the Report
- Sustainability Initiatives:
Environmental responsibility continues to be a shared priority. At Kendal at Ithaca, passion drives progress as residents and staff lead sustainable practices and advocate for environmental protection. The community worked with a team of trusted sustainability scientists to develop a carbon reduction and biodiversity map, guiding land use, conservation efforts and campus development.
At Lathrop Community, stewardship remains at the heart of operations, with ongoing efforts to preserve and protect the land while cultivating native plants. In its dedication to sustainability and inclusion, Collington embodies the values of unity and community connection through the work of the horticulturist dedicated to sustainability practices, building a woodland trail bridge for better accessibility, and supporting a staff member with her education and passion as a poet. - Technology-Supported Engagement:
Kendal communities have also embraced modernization to build stronger connections. Barclay Friends harnesses cognitive engagement technology to encourage those with dementia to engage and have fun. These efforts serve as a reminder of technology’s power to enrich lives and deepen relationships. - Intergenerational Connections:
Bringing together multiple generations has a meaningful impact on the local communities where Kendal Affiliates are located. Kendal at Hanover’s Early Learning Center has received a Program of Merit from Generations United for its on-campus program, where children connect with residents for learning and joyful fun. Enso Village connected with local high school students through internships, where they gained firsthand experience in supporting Assisted Living residents and created Enso Village’s first TikTok video. These initiatives connect generations through curiosity, creativity and mutual benefit. - Commitment to Inclusion:
Kendal Affiliates remain committed to creating inclusive spaces where all individuals feel valued and welcome. Kendal at Oberlin’s ongoing commitment to inclusion and dedication to fostering environments that celebrate diversity was recognized by a “Leader” designation for being LGBTQ+ inclusive in long-term care and senior housing. - Community & Collaboration:
Community is at our core. Whether it’s Kendal on Hudson’s initiative to create and refresh the campus common areas into beautiful and functional spaces for residents and employees or the impactful “Residents Helping Residents” program at Kendal at Lexington, where new residents receive the boost of assistance and support they need with setting up and decorating their new homes, a focus remains on cultivating vibrant, supportive communities. Kendal at Home highlights how members can connect with their peers, and benefit from a person-centered, holistic approach to aging, no matter where they call home.
Reflecting on Our Progress, Looking to the Future
Each Kendal Affiliate initiative represents a piece of the System’s collective purpose — enriching lives, supporting one another, and leading with intention.
Looking ahead, the Kendal System will continue to build upon these achievements as Affiliates launch new initiatives, deepen their impact and stay true to Quaker-rooted values.
Together, Kendal will continue to create something truly special — communities and organizations that value the vibrancy, allure and stability that the System offers, while most importantly, feeling connected to one another.