Posted: January 17, 2024
In light of their remarkable 10-year anniversary, this article explores the history of Casey’s Pond senior living community. We will take a journey through time, exploring the incredible transformation from its humble beginnings to the thriving community it is today.
Nestled in the heart of the Yampa Valley, Casey’s Pond is a warm and inclusive senior living community surrounded by picturesque mountains and unlimited sky. It’s the only continuing care community in a Colorado mountain resort town, but its roots in the Steamboat Springs area date back to the early 1900s.
Local residents recall that the pond, once named Storm Mountain Lake, may have been man-made, as there is a dam at one end. Since the early 1900s, pioneer ranchers like the Sinden and Selbe families have called this land at the foot of Storm Mountain their home. In the past, various structures, including a large barn and outbuildings, existed on Walton Creek Road. It wasn’t until around 1941 that electricity became widely available in the area. The land was later owned by the Blecha family, who named the pond Blecha’s Lake. Joe Ireland then purchased the property and converted buildings into housing for workers involved in constructing the Rabbit Ears pass road in 1913.
In the late 1950s, the Casey family became the new owners and embarked on further developments, like a gas station and small diner, and to this day, the pond is still named for their ownership of the land. The log cabin that was located on Pine Street was temporarily a “modular” school for first graders. Eventually, this cabin was moved to its present site at the edge of Casey’s Pond, and became a marker for the East entrance to Steamboat Springs in 1977 where it served as a visitor information center.
In 2008-2009, the idea of creating a full-service, senior living community was envisioned by healthcare leaders in the community. The Doak Walker House at the Yampa Valley Medical Center needed a new and expanded location to cater to the growing retirement population in Northwest Colorado. Casey’s Pond Senior Living Community, a non-profit organization, received funding from the YVMC Foundation and other tax-exempt bonds to support the project.
The new structure was designed based on the “Green House” model of care, emphasizing a home-like environment, individualized care, and opportunities for personal growth. Construction began in May 2012, and by October 2013, the first residents moved into their new suites at The Doak Walker House wing of Casey’s Pond. Shortly after, Veranda (Independent Living) and Grove (Assisted Living) residents joined the community, marking a new era for the community.
The history of Casey’s Pond, the pond at the foot of Storm Peak, will always be remembered as a beneficial chapter in the Yampa Valley’s glorious history book. Casey’s Pond was born out of a vision to create a senior living community that not only provides exceptional care and support, but also fosters a vibrant and fulfilling lifestyle for residents. Since opening its doors, residents enter a warm and welcoming home in the breathtaking surroundings of Steamboat Springs.
The retirement homes offer a blend of casual comfort and authentic independence, coupled with a wide range of care options, services, and amenities. What sets Casey’s Pond apart is the commitment to an environment where residents not only age gracefully, but also find inspiration to grow and thrive.
This vision for exceptional senior living is seen daily in the following attributes that make Casey’s Pond so special:
From the very beginning, Casey’s Pond set out to create an environment where residents could thrive physically, emotionally, and socially. The community’s dedicated team of caregivers, including nurses, therapists, and support staff, have always been committed to providing compassionate care tailored to each individual’s needs. This culture of care has been the cornerstone of Casey’s Pond’s success over the past decade.
Over the years, Casey’s Pond has continuously evolved to meet the changing needs and desires of its residents. In response to the growing demand for independent living options, the community expanded to include beautiful apartments to meet a variety of lifestyle and financial needs, offering seniors the freedom and comfort they desire while still enjoying the benefits of a supportive community. Whether a resident is a part of the independent living neighborhood, assisted living neighborhood, or is a recipient of short- or long-term care in the skilled nursing & rehabilitation community, all individuals are made to feel valued and find peace of mind.
Casey’s Pond has consistently embraced innovation to enhance the overall well-being and quality of life for its residents. From daily fitness activities and wellness programs to engaging social activities and lifelong learning opportunities, Casey’s Pond has created a dynamic and enriching environment where residents can continue to grow, learn, and thrive. What really sets Casey’s Pond apart is how the environment encourages residents to follow their passions and discover meaningful connections. In partnership with the greater Steamboat Springs community, residents have access to adventurous and engaging activities they can only imagine.
At Casey’s Pond, community is at the heart of everything they do. The warm and inclusive atmosphere encourages meaningful connections, friendships, and a true sense of belonging. From communal dining experiences that foster camaraderie to organized outings that explore the beauty of Steamboat Springs, Casey’s Pond has created a close-knit community that feels like family.
As we embrace the history of Casey’s Pond and celebrate this 10-year milestone, the future looks brighter than ever. With a continued commitment to providing exceptional care, innovative programs, and a strong sense of community, Casey’s Pond is poised to continue making a positive impact on the lives of seniors in Steamboat Springs for many years to come. Join us in congratulating Casey’s Pond on their remarkable 10-year anniversary! Casey’s Pond has truly become a haven for seniors in Steamboat Springs. Here’s to the next decade of enriching lives, creating memories, and embracing the spirit of senior living excellence.
© 2024 Casey's Pond
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