OPEN FOR BUSINESS
Parkland at Shaker Pointe senior living facility project complete
WATERVLIET, N.Y. » Parkland at Shaker Pointe is open for business.
The independent senior living facility completes the last phase of an 8-year project as part of a vision of caring for the “dear neighbor” by the Sisters of St. Joseph at Carondelet.
“We have always tried to respond to the needs of the time,” said Sister Eileen McCann. “We had this land and wanted to use it to provide for those in need.”
The Sisters of St. Joseph at Carondelet first came up with the idea of using their land for senior living about 15 years ago. Working with the town of Colonie to bring their idea to life, a plan was formed that would eventually turn into the community of Shaker Pointe.
“It offers a whole different environment,” commented Colonie Town Supervisor Paula Mahan. “Shaker Pointe has really brought something special to our area. We’re grateful for all the work the Sisters have done.”
Parkland differs from the rest of the Shaker Point senior living campus in that it is the only building to offer a rental option to its residents. It provides housing and services to people over the age of 55 who are looking to downsize, but don’t own a home to sell, perhaps coming from another rental arrangement.
The 35- unit facility broadens the range of options available for senior independent housing, reaching out to a wider demographic of people. Resi
“Shaker Pointe has really brought something special to our area. We’re grateful for all the work the Sisters have done.” — Colonie Town Supervisor Paula Maha
dents will have access to all services and amenities provided by Shaker Pointe.
In addition to the housing options, Shaker Pointe and the Sisters of St. Joseph are also working with the Office of Aging to provide vouchers for congregate meals for those at Shaker Pointe and Parkland who qualify.
The Shaker Pointe campus also has several areas that are open to the public, such as a restaurant, beauty salon, physical therapy center, and pool. Making parts of the community open to others is a way to increase community involvement and strengthen the Sisters’ vision of living and working with “the dear neighbor.”
“The dear neighbor” is a concept at the foundation of the beliefs of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet. It is the idea that everyone, without distinction of any kind, it worthy of help and service.
At Parkland’s grand opening, a ceremonial ribbon was cut at the front of the building. Then a ceremony was held back at the main campus of Shaker Pointe. Sister Eileen welcomed everyone, gave a short speech, and turned it over to Paula Mahan, who gave a speech of her own, recalling the process that led to that day.
Mahan then welcomed remarks from Sister Lauren Van Dermark.
“Today really is a monumental day for everyone,” Sister Lauren commented, echoing the sentiments of Sister Eileen and Mahan, describing Parkland as “an environment that supports and enhances every part of life.”
Sister Lauren and Sister Kay Ryan then offered a blessing prayer, naming the organizations and people who had helped to make the opening of Parkland successful.
Then, it was time to go visit Parkland, officially open for business. Sales and Marketing director Pamela Koniszewski directed people where to go, explaining that shuttles would be available to and from Parkland on a constant schedule.
The Parkland facility already has residents moved in, with more expected to sign up in the coming weeks. Tours were available for anyone interested. Outside in the parking lot, a tent was set up with food, beverages, and musical entertainment. Food stations were also set up on the front porch and in the lobby.
People were able to take time to enjoy themselves and tour the building, then hop on a shuttle back to Shaker Pointe’s main campus when they were ready.
For information about Parkland, including cost and availability, visit www. shakerpointe.org.