Minneapolis' Newest Affordable Independent Senior Living Community Welcomes Residents
Ecumen’s Affordable Community Features 11 Units Designated for Veterans in Need of Housing
By Angie Andresen | March 31, 2023

MINNEAPOLIS, MN (March 31, 2023) — Nestled in the Longfellow neighborhood, one of Minneapolis’ newest affordable housing communities for older adults — The Hillock — began welcoming its first residents in late 2022. Interest continues to grow in the community, which has convenient access to Minnehaha Park, trails, stores and light rail. Driving excitement is a current move-in special offering one month free for those moving in by April 30.
Developed by Ecumen, the community sits on a three-acre parcel that formerly housed the City of Minneapolis Public Works maintenance yard. It is managed by Ecumen, one of the leading senior care and service providers in the country.
Eleven of the apartments are designated for Veterans in need of housing.
“The Hillock is the type of project that is so central to our mission and vision that every older adult has a home with innovative services to live the life they choose,” said Shelley Kendrick, Ecumen president and CEO. “It’s exciting to see this community take shape and to witness our mission in action.”
Beautifully designed apartments in 14 different floor plans are available to qualifying seniors age 55 and older earning 50-60 percent of the Hennepin County Area Median Income. Other amenities include a fitness center, community room and community garden.
Unique to The Hillock is an on-site clinic space that will open later this spring. Staffed by Southside Clinic, practitioners will be determined based on the needs and desires of the residents.
“The clinic is a feature that our residents are really excited about, and particularly because it’s being designed to suit their needs,” Vesperman said. “We’re excited to have expertise and care — from everything from nutrition needs to blood pressure checks and dental visits – right here in our community.”
The Hillock is the first phase in creating a 100 percent affordable, intergenerational campus at the location. Phase two will be a 90-unit affordable family housing building.
To schedule a visit or for more information about The Hillock, visit ecumen.org/theHillock or call 612-424-8983.
About Ecumen
Ecumen is a nonprofit provider, developer and operator of award-winning living spaces and innovative technology and services for older adults. Mission-driven since its founding in 1862, Ecumen’s legacy of service is a reflection of a commitment to honoring those it serves. Ecumen is based in Shoreview, Minn., and operates properties and services in multiple states, and provides new development, management and consulting services. Housing options include cooperative living, independent living, assisted living, memory care, short-term rehabilitation and long-term care communities. Its diverse in-home and community-based services include home care, hospice, physical and occupational therapy, adult day services, technology products and an online durable goods medical store. For more information, visit ecumen.org.
Ecumen’s Katie Lundmark Reappointed to Governor Walz’s Workforce Development Board
Ecumen’s Katie Lundmark Reappointed to Governor Walz’s Workforce Development Board
By CorrineMcCallum | March 20, 2023

SHOREVIEW, MN (March 20, 2023) — Ecumen’s Director of Operations, Katie Lundmark, has been reappointed to the Governor’s Workforce Development Board (GWDB) for a three-year term, where she will continue to advocate for increasing the pipeline and eliminating barriers for people to enter Minnesota’s long-term care workforce. Lundmark, who lives in Detroit Lakes, began serving on the GWDB in 2019.
“Katie is a true advocate for our team members and those we serve across the state,” said Shelley Kendrick, Ecumen president and CEO. “She is an important voice at the table and we’re proud to have her represent Ecumen and Minnesota’s older adults on this Board.”
About Ecumen
Ecumen is a nonprofit provider, developer and operator of award-winning living spaces and innovative technology and services for older adults. Mission-driven since its founding in 1862, Ecumen’s legacy of service is a reflection of a commitment to honoring those it serves. Ecumen is based in Shoreview, Minn., and operates properties and services in multiple states, and provides new development, management and consulting services. Housing options include cooperative living, independent living, assisted living, memory care, short-term rehabilitation and long-term care communities. Its diverse in-home and community-based services include home care, hospice, physical and occupational therapy, adult day services, technology products and an online durable goods medical store. For more information, visit ecumen.org.
Ecumen Selected as Finalist for Minnesota Real Estate Journal Awards
Ecumen Selected as Finalist for Minnesota Real Estate Journal Awards
By CorrineMcCallum | March 9, 2023



MINNEAPOLIS, MN (March 9, 2023) — The Hillock, an Ecumen living space consisting of 100 affordable senior housing apartments, has been selected as a finalist for the 2023 Minnesota Real Journal Awards in the “Affordable Housing – Urban” category. These awards showcase the top real estate developments and achievements in Minnesota over the past year.
“More than just a place to call home, The Hillock is a community of its own within the vibrant Longfellow community,” said Ecumen Senior Director of Business Development, Anne Stanfield. “We are committed to bringing high-quality affordable housing for even more older adults, and we’re delighted that The Hillock has been such a success already.”
Click here to read more about the awards.
To learn more about The Hillock — Affordable Housing for Seniors 55+, click here.
About Ecumen
Ecumen is a nonprofit provider, developer and operator of award-winning living spaces and innovative technology and services for older adults. Mission-driven since its founding in 1862, Ecumen’s legacy of service is a reflection of a commitment to honoring those it serves. Ecumen is based in Shoreview, Minn., and operates properties and services in multiple states, and provides new development, management and consulting services. Housing options include cooperative living, independent living, assisted living, memory care, short-term rehabilitation and long-term care communities. Its diverse in-home and community-based services include home care, hospice, physical and occupational therapy, adult day services, technology products and an online durable goods medical store. For more information, visit ecumen.org.
HENNEPIN HEALTHCARE ANNOUNCES TRANSFER OF HOSPICE SERVICES TO ECUMEN HOSPICE
Hennepin Healthcare Announces Transfer of Hospice Services to Ecumen Hospice
Written by: Angie Andresen | March 8, 2023

MINNEAPOLIS, MN (March 8, 2023) — Hennepin Healthcare and Ecumen are pleased to announce the transfer of Hennepin Healthcare’s at home hospice services to Ecumen Hospice in a collaboration that supports access to comprehensive hospice services for Hennepin Healthcare patients.
“This collaboration between our two organizations expands access to our outstanding and comprehensive hospice care for Hennepin Healthcare patients,” said Shelley Kendrick, Ecumen president and CEO. “Additionally, it furthers our mission with a goal of making this compassionate, patient-centered end-of-life care available to everyone who needs it, in their home or wherever they’re living – regardless of their ability to pay.”
Maintaining options for long-term care and hospice are important parts of the healthcare ecosystem. Hennepin Healthcare and Ecumen are committed to realizing solutions to the current compression and congestion in hospitals that is resulting in longer lengths of stay and limited access for patients who need higher levels of care.
About Ecumen
Ecumen is a nonprofit provider, developer and operator of award-winning living spaces and innovative technology and services for older adults. Mission-driven since its founding in 1862, Ecumen’s legacy of service is a reflection of a commitment to honoring those it serves. Ecumen is based in Shoreview, Minn., and operates properties and services in multiple states, and provides new development, management and consulting services. Housing options include cooperative living, independent living, assisted living, memory care, short-term rehabilitation and long-term care communities. Its diverse in-home and community-based services include home care, hospice, physical and occupational therapy, adult day services, technology products and an online durable goods medical store. For more information, visit ecumen.org.
Retirement Home Helps Minnesota Man Celebrate 106th Birthday
Retirement Home Helps Minnesota Man Celebrate 106th Birthday
CBS News | Written by: Allen Henry | March 7, 2023

APPLE VALLEY, MN (March 7, 2023) — Born in 1917, Floyd Skinner has lived through two world wars, two pandemics and now, 106 birthdays.
Floyd was born near the Iowa border in Walters, Minnesota, doing his duty on the family farm before serving his country and traveling the world.
“I milked my cows, same as every farmer,” Floyd said.
“Gas was 14 cents a gallon when he was born, which is absurd in itself, yet he’s a veteran and he’s served in World War II,” said Mary Walters, executive director at Ecumen Seasons in Apple Valley.
Tuesday, his retirement home held a “Floyd Fest” to celebrate his life.
“Wearing yellow as his favorite color. We have these buttons on to honor him and all the residents and team members got one. And then we’re serving cake, having an accordion player,” Walters said.
Also carefully hidden around the home were 106 pictures of Floyd to honor his love of photography, and to spread a little more of what they call “the joy of Floyd.”
“I have never seen a 106 year old, and someone so healthy and vibrant, too,” Walters said. “He has such a positive outlook on life and he’s very inspirational. So, we’re happy to celebrate that.”
Despite the mileage he’s put in during his lifetime, when it comes to the secret to a long, healthy life, Floyd was a man of few words.
“I always tell ’em, ‘keep breathing,’ and that shuts them up,” Floyd said.
Floyd also received a certificate from the mayor of Apple Valley to honor and celebrate his birthday.
Click here to view the whole story.
About Ecumen
Ecumen is a nonprofit provider, developer and operator of award-winning living spaces and innovative technology and services for older adults. Mission-driven since its founding in 1862, Ecumen’s legacy of service is a reflection of a commitment to honoring those it serves. Ecumen is based in Shoreview, Minn., and operates properties and services in multiple states, and provides new development, management and consulting services. Housing options include cooperative living, independent living, assisted living, memory care, short-term rehabilitation and long-term care communities. Its diverse in-home and community-based services include home care, hospice, physical and occupational therapy, adult day services, technology products and an online durable goods medical store. For more information, visit ecumen.org.
Ecumen Lakeshore Team Member Receives a Special Thank You
Ecumen Lakeshore Team Member Receives a Special Thank You
By CorrineMcCallum | February 21, 2023


DULUTH, MN (February 21, 2023) — Gratitude goes a long way. You could say it goes as far as a 2.5-hour long road trip from Pequot Lakes, MN, to Duluth, MN, in a snowstorm.
After beating COVID-19, Dean found that he was still struggling with his breathing, and at the end of February 2022, he had developed a very bad cough which turned into a case of pneumonia. From there, his physical and mental health declined. He found himself struggling with panic attacks, shortness of breath and a debilitating cough. After being admitted to hospital after hospital, and multiple bronchoscopies later, the family was still struggling to find an exact answer as to what was going on.
The day of discharge from a Duluth hospital, Dean tested positive for COVID-19 again. He was sent home to recover. Once back in Pequot Lakes, Dean was still having panic attacks and low oxygen levels. Dean and LaDonna needed answers. Dean was finally airlifted to Mayo Clinic in Rochester as he was declining rapidly.
Upon arrival, it was determined that the virus had settled deep within his lungs, causing many issues, and requiring him to be in isolation for almost two months. LaDonna was told to head back home to Pequot Lakes as she couldn’t see Dean in person. Dean found himself lonely and depressed. “Nurses would come into my room to check on me, but there was no conversing, no human-touch, nothing,” Dean said. “That is what I missed the most.”
After a long and challenging 80 days in and out of hospitals, Dean and LaDonna began looking at transitional care units (TCU) but found that many wouldn’t take him due to the level of care he needed.
It was at that time that Dean and LaDonna were introduced to Ecumen Lakeshore — The Fountains Transitional Care. Without hesitation, Ecumen Lakeshore admitted him on a Friday afternoon.
“We drove into the parking lot and there were three nurses aides waiting for us, ready to help,” said LaDonna. “They were fantastic from day one.”
Dean still had a long road to recovery, but the care he received at Ecumen Lakeshore helped him recover quicker than he thought. “I saw smiling faces and heard words of encouragement from the moment I entered Ecumen,” he said. “That is what you need when you’re healing.”
Throughout his physical and occupational therapy, Dean immediately connected with Hannah, an Ecumen Occupational Therapist. “Hannah and Dean just clicked right away,” LaDonna said. “She was the answer to our prayers.” Hannah was the highlight of Dean’s day. He couldn’t wait to see her!
Because the long hospitalizations and recovery process had taken a toll on Dean’s mental health, Hannah took the time to determine the best ways to support Dean through his anxiety. “If it wasn’t for her, I wouldn’t be where I am today,” Dean said. “She’s an angel, no question about it.”
Once he was discharged, Dean knew he needed to see Hannah again and thank her for saving his life. “I wanted to show her how far I have come since my stay at Lakeshore,” Dean said.
So, Dean and LaDonna made the 2.5 hour trek to Duluth from their home in Pequot Lakes to surprise Hannah during her lunch break. When Hannah realized it was Dean, she cried and hugged him for two minutes straight.
Dean is now back home, building a woodshop, shoveling snow and finally enjoying retired life up north with LaDonna.
“Don’t give up. There are people that care. You never know when you’ll meet your angel,” Dean said. Dean met his at Ecumen Lakeshore.
About Ecumen
Ecumen is a nonprofit provider, developer and operator of award-winning living spaces and innovative technology and services for older adults. Mission-driven since its founding in 1862, Ecumen’s legacy of service is a reflection of a commitment to honoring those it serves. Ecumen is based in Shoreview, Minn., and operates properties and services in multiple states, and provides new development, management and consulting services. Housing options include cooperative living, independent living, assisted living, memory care, short-term rehabilitation and long-term care communities. Its diverse in-home and community-based services include home care, hospice, physical and occupational therapy, adult day services, technology products and an online durable goods medical store. For more information, visit ecumen.org.
Commitment to Connection Creates Ecumen’s “Operation Holiday Cheer”
Commitment to Connection Creates Ecumen’s “Operation Holiday Cheer”
By CorrineMcCallum | December 16, 2022




“We decided to do this project because we realized how important it was to stay connected to our mission of serving our older adults – including many who may not have family or friends visiting,” said Mel Sullivan, Ecumen’s Chief People Officer. “It’s a testament to how deeply all of our team members – no matter their role – care about those we serve.”
Team members from every department participated. Some team members created handmade cards, while others included their kids or grandchildren in the card making. Ecumen’s Finance Team got together for “Cards and Cupcakes” and wrote out 200 of the 2,400 total cards distributed to residents.
“This was a great opportunity for our team to meet in person and spread cheer to Ecumen residents,” said Susie Schuh, Director of Financial Planning and Analysis. “We know that these cards mean so much to the residents and it’s also an opportunity for us to thank them for choosing Ecumen.”
About Ecumen
Ecumen is a nonprofit provider, developer and operator of award-winning living spaces and innovative technology and services for older adults. Mission-driven since its founding in 1862, Ecumen’s legacy of service is a reflection of a commitment to honoring those it serves. Ecumen is based in Shoreview, Minn., and operates properties and services in multiple states, and provides new development, management and consulting services. Housing options include cooperative living, independent living, assisted living, memory care, short-term rehabilitation and long-term care communities. Its diverse in-home and community-based services include home care, hospice, physical and occupational therapy, adult day services, technology products and an online durable goods medical store. For more information, visit ecumen.org.
Ecumen Lakeshore The Fountains Receives Top Rating from U.S. News & World Report
Ecumen Lakeshore The Fountains Receives Top Rating from U.S. News & World Report
By CorrineMcCallum | November 23, 2022


DULUTH, MN (November 23, 2022) — Ecumen Lakeshore in Duluth, Minn., has received a “Best Nursing Home Short-Term Rehabilitation” rating for The Fountains, its short-term rehabilitation center by U.S. News & World Report magazine. The magazine evaluated more than 15,000 facilities throughout the country, rating most of them in the areas of short-term rehabilitation and long-term care. Ecumen Lakeshore received a “high performance” rating — the highest designation possible — in short-term rehabilitation.
“We are honored to be named by the U.S. News & World Report as one of the best nursing homes in short-term rehabilitation in Minnesota. This achievement is a direct reflection of our amazing team members who provide excellent care for those who choose Lakeshore. Our team members are the true recipients of this honor,” said Blaine Gamst, Executive Director of Ecumen Lakeshore. “Whether it’s for our outstanding short-term rehab, skilled nursing, our assisted living or independent living apartments, we are grateful to our Duluth community for trusting us for the past 92 years,” Gamst said.
U.S. News compiles its rating information in a national Nursing Home Finder that offers comprehensive information about care, safety, health inspections, staffing and more for almost all nursing homes in the country. This tool provides customized searches for nursing homes by location, Medicare and Medicaid coverage, Alzheimer’s care and size. The Nursing Home Finder reflects U.S. News’ analysis of data collected and published by the federal government using a methodology defined by U.S. News.
Since their inception in 2009, the U.S. News Best Nursing Home ratings have relied on data from Nursing Home Compare, a program run by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, the federal agency that sets and enforces standards for nursing homes.
Ecumen Lakeshore — The Fountains short-term rehabilitation center, is located at 4002 London Rd., Duluth, MN. In addition to providing skilled nursing care, Ecumen Lakeshore offers short-term rehabilitation, memory care, independent and assisted living apartments, as well as home care and hospice.
For more information call (218) 625-7100 or visit ecumenlakeshore.org.
About Ecumen
Ecumen is a nonprofit provider, developer and operator of award-winning living spaces and innovative technology and services for older adults. Mission-driven since its founding in 1862, Ecumen’s legacy of service is a reflection of a commitment to honoring those it serves. Ecumen is based in Shoreview, Minn., and operates properties and services in multiple states, and provides new development, management and consulting services. Housing options include cooperative living, independent living, assisted living, memory care, short-term rehabilitation and long-term care communities. Its diverse in-home and community-based services include home care, hospice, physical and occupational therapy, adult day services, technology products and an online durable goods medical store. For more information, visit ecumen.org.
Ecumen Pathstone Care Center Receives Top Rating from U.S. News & World Report
Ecumen Pathstone Care Center Receives Top Rating from U.S. News & World Report
By CorrineMcCallum | November 17, 2022

MANKATO, MN (November 17, 2022) — Ecumen Pathstone in Mankato, Minn., has received a “Best Nursing Home Short-Term Rehabilitation” rating for its short-term rehabilitation center by U.S. News & World Report magazine. The magazine evaluated more than 15,000 facilities throughout the country, rating most of them in the areas of short-term rehabilitation and long-term care. Ecumen Pathstone received a “high performance” rating — the highest designation possible — in short-term rehabilitation.
“We are honored to be once again named by the U.S. News & World Report as one of the best nursing homes in short-term rehabilitation in Minnesota. This achievement is a direct reflection of our amazing team members who provide excellent care to our patients. Our team members are the true recipients of this honor,” said Rachael Evers, Executive Director of Ecumen Pathstone. “Whether it’s for our outstanding short-term rehab, skilled nursing, our assisted living or new independent living apartments, we are grateful to our Mankato community for trusting us for the past 85 years,” Evers said.
U.S. News compiles its rating information in a national Nursing Home Finder that offers comprehensive information about care, safety, health inspections, staffing and more for almost all nursing homes in the country. This tool provides customized searches for nursing homes by location, Medicare and Medicaid coverage, Alzheimer’s care and size. The Nursing Home Finder reflects U.S. News’ analysis of data collected and published by the federal government using a methodology defined by U.S. News.
Since their inception in 2009, the U.S. News Best Nursing Home ratings have relied on data from Nursing Home Compare, a program run by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, the federal agency that sets and enforces standards for nursing homes.
Ecumen Pathstone’s Care Center, located at 718 Mound Ave, is celebrating its 85th year of service in Mankato. In addition to providing skilled nursing care, Ecumen Pathstone offers short-term rehabilitation, memory care, assisted living apartments, new independent living community – Latitude – as well as home care, hospice, and adult day services.
For more information call (507) 345-4576 or visit ecumenpathstone.org.
About Ecumen
Ecumen is a nonprofit provider, developer and operator of award-winning living spaces and innovative technology and services for older adults. Mission-driven since its founding in 1862, Ecumen’s legacy of service is a reflection of a commitment to honoring those it serves. Ecumen is based in Shoreview, Minn., and operates properties and services in multiple states, and provides new development, management and consulting services. Housing options include cooperative living, independent living, assisted living, memory care, short-term rehabilitation and long-term care communities. Its diverse in-home and community-based services include home care, hospice, physical and occupational therapy, adult day services, technology products and an online durable goods medical store. For more information, visit ecumen.org.
Three Ecumen Communities Land 2022 Top Senior Living Community Award by the Mpls. St Paul Magazine
Three Ecumen Communities Land 2022 Top Senior Living Community Award by the Mpls. St Paul Magazine
By CorrineMcCallum | November 17, 2022

SHOREVIEW, MN (November 17, 2022) — We are proud to announce that three Ecumen assisted living communities and one skilled nursing community have been named 2022 Top Living communities by the Mpls. St. Paul Magazine.
Congratulations to Abiitan Mill City, Ecumen North Branch and Ecumen Seasons at Apple Valley for being top assisted living communities. Ecumen North Branch was also awarded as a top skilled nursing community. Check out the November issue on newsstands now to learn more about their Top Senior Living awards.
About Ecumen
Ecumen is a nonprofit provider, developer and operator of award-winning living spaces and innovative technology and services for older adults. Mission-driven since its founding in 1862, Ecumen’s legacy of service is a reflection of a commitment to honoring those it serves. Ecumen is based in Shoreview, Minn., and operates properties and services in multiple states, and provides new development, management and consulting services. Housing options include cooperative living, independent living, assisted living, memory care, short-term rehabilitation and long-term care communities. Its diverse in-home and community-based services include home care, hospice, physical and occupational therapy, adult day services, technology products and an online durable goods medical store. For more information, visit ecumen.org.