“When residents move in, they become part of the family,” says Kim Swise, Sales and Marketing Director for Charter Senior Living in Pekin. And they remain a vital part of that family as long as they are a member of the independent/assisted living community on South 14th Street. Swise says the staff is all about helping each and every resident live their fullest and best life every day.

Charter Senior Living began serving the Pekin community in 2008. It is one of two Central Illinois locations in a network of more than 65 Charter Senior Living communities across the Midwest and Florida. Swise says all are dedicated to enhancing the human spirit for residents and their families.

Pekin is home to older and larger independent/assisted living centers, but Swise says Charter Senior Living is in a class all its own. Here’s why:

• Staff Longevity. Swise says better care starts with better staff. Long, personal connections to the Charter Senior Living community allow staff members to develop family-like relationships that benefit residents and employees. She points to a Certified Nurse Assistant who has been on staff for 16 years, the Director of Dining Services for 11 years, and the Business Office Manager for eight years. Staff members take time to get to know residents and their unique needs. 
• The Dining Experience. Swise says, “The older we get the more we look forward to meals.” Mealtimes strengthen the community and bring residents together, and Charter Senior Living takes extraordinary steps to make sure every mealtime is a highlight of the day. Residents may choose to enjoy three meals a day, served restaurant-style in a spacious central dining area, and unlimited snacks. Private dining areas are available for family gatherings and small groups of friends. Ever-changing menu items are ordered and served at the table. Special dietary needs are always accommodated, and an alternate menu is available with salads, burgers, and breakfast any time of day. “We know that if you don’t like the food, you are not going to like the community,” Swise says. 
• Outstanding Activities. Swise says Charter Senior Living is blessed with an outstanding activity director who offers “a little bit of everything” to accommodate the abilities and interests of all residents. Some activities are offered daily within the community, others are off-site at local restaurants, shopping centers, sports events, and other venues. The community’s activity van is reserved two days a week for Doctor Run Days. “There is always something to do,” Swise says. “That’s what makes a community a community.”

Charter Senior Living is a pet-friendly community, with 61 apartments built for comfort and flexibility, from traditional studio arrangements to larger one-bedroom floor plans. All are open floor plans with safety and security features, a kitchenette, mini fridge, and microwave. Pricing ranges from $3,600 to $5,000 per month, including meals and activities.

The community is located in a quiet residential area with beautiful landscaping and an outdoor courtyard. Access is by doorbell only after the daily 7pm closing time. Maintenance, laundry service, and on-site storage are available.

Swise says over half of current residents are truly independent. They come and go as they please, some own a car, take vacations, and visit friends according to their schedule. Amenities for all residents include a wellness and fitness center, on-site physical, occupational and speech therapy, a resource library, a common area for recreation and entertainment, salon, private mail service, and a movie theater. Swise emphasizes that family members and loved ones are always welcome.

Swise invites potential residents, family members and loved ones to set up a time for a tour to see first-hand what makes Charter Senior Living a special place for seniors. Call 309-346-1310, email [email protected] or visit www.charterofpekin.com.