WesleyLife

04/29/2026

The fulfillment of WesleyLife’s mission would not be possible without the efforts of hundreds of valued volunteers. Today, we honored them.

From drivers who deliver meals to food-insecure older adults and military veterans to Sampson, a canine “best friend” who cheers residents at Park Centre-A WesleyLife Community, from people who keep hospice clients comfortable near the end of life to individuals who sort papers and fill envelopes, all are important, and all are appreciated. From the bottom of our organizational heart, we thank you.

Enjoy these photos from our annual volunteer event at Wesley on Grand in Des Moines!

04/28/2026

Caring for people and caring for the world they live in go hand in hand. That’s why on Earth Day last week, team members in Johnston my stepped outside and took action, organizing a walk to pick up litter in their neighborhood

It was a simple act, but it reflects something bigger.

Health and well-being are shaped by more than what happens inside our communities. They’re influenced by the environments we share, the spaces we move in each day, and the choices we make.

When team members take time to care for those spaces, they’re living our commitment to well-being in a very real, visible way. Thanks to this group of lunchtime walkers!

04/28/2026

LeadingAge, the advocacy organization for not-for-profit senior living, has chosen a WesleyLife resident as the winner of a statewide annual award. Tish C. of Halcyon House-A WesleyLife Community in Washington, Iowa, has been selected winner of the 2026 Leading Life Award, which honors a resident who demonstrates an inspiring and resilient outlook and a commitment to continued engagement. The chosen winner redefines what it means to age while encouraging others to embrace every stage of life with purpose and possibility.

LeadingAge Iowa will recognize Tish during its 2026 Annual Conference May 6–7 in Altoona. Congratulations on this well-deserved award, Tish!

04/27/2026

This week is Global Intergenerational Week. Our president and CEO, Rob Kretzinger, writes about why WesleyLife cares about this observance, how it informs our work, and how your efforts to connect with individuals of all ages can help combat societal prejudices toward older (and younger!) people. Please take a moment to read Rob's take on this important topic in the link below.

Intergenerational connections dispel stereotypes around aging. Our CEO discusses why this matters to WesleyLife, and why you should care, too.

04/26/2026

History walked right through the front door at Edgewater, our community for healthy living in West Des Moines, on Friday.

Before stepping into his presentation to residents, “Thomas Jefferson” took a moment to greet Allison Pendroy, WesleyLife’s chief operating officer and incoming CEO, setting the tone for a morning that brought early American history to life.

Portrayed by The Rev. Dr. Jack R. Van Ens in full 18th-century dress, Jefferson invited guests into the spirited debates that helped shape the United States. From the first handshake to the final remarks, his presentation was an engaging reminder that the questions at the center of our country’s founding still resonate today.

Moments like this continue to illustrate that Edgewater is a place where opportunities for lifelong learning can come in unexpected ways!

04/25/2026

Sometimes the biggest benefit of maintenance-free senior living isn’t physical, — it’s mental. 🧠 No tracking warranties, remembering service schedules, or worrying about property upkeep. That mental clarity creates more space for what truly matters, including time with friends and family and the opportunity to pursue interests and passion projects you’ve been putting off. Learn more in our latest article. https://hubs.li/Q04bCLVm0

Is maintenance-free senior living right for you? Explore the costs, benefits, and lifestyle advantages of living without home upkeep.

04/25/2026

A dedicated WesleyLife Meals on Wheels driver proves it's never too late for a career pivot ... and when you can make a change without leaving the organization you love, it's even better. Read Candy's story in the link below!

Time as a dedicated Meals on Wheels driver taught Candy that it's never too late to pivot ... and that she wouldn't have to leave WesleyLife to do it.

04/23/2026

HHalcyon House-A WesleyLife Communityin Washington, Iowa, is delighted to have welcomed a new leader to the community earlier this month.

Richard Sweet-Keech joined Halcyon as executive director on April 6, bringing more than 20 years of leadership experience in services and care for older adults. His approach centers on strong relationships, supporting team members, and building systems that help both people and organizations perform at their best.

Throughout his career, Richard has strengthened quality outcomes, improved regulatory performance, and helped create environments where individuals feel safe, supported, and respected. We are so pleased he has chosen to join WesleyLife!

04/22/2026

On this Administrative Professionals Day, we thank our administrative team members across the organization for all they do to support our mission. We're also going to hear from three of them about how serving others makes their own lives better! Read more in the link below.

On this National Administrative Professionals’ Day, WesleyLife thanks our administrative professionals for everything they do to contribute to our mission.

04/21/2026

Soon after accepting her first job with the organization that would become WesleyLife Meals on Wheels, Pam realized her impact could be profound and lasting. Twenty-five years later, in a "command central" role that connects clients and services, she continues to change lives for the better. Read her story in the link below.

For 25 years, Pam Lee's impact has helped shape WesleyLife Meals on Wheels, and she's still going strong.

04/20/2026

So much of what happens at WesleyLife each day is made possible by people who choose to help.

From serving on our board of directors to delivering meals to spending time in conversation, our volunteers show up in ways that matter. We rely on hundreds of volunteers each year, and their time and care make a difference for the people we serve.

On Volunteer Recognition Day, we want to thank them. We appreciate the role they play in helping people stay connected, supported, and engaged wherever they call home.

And if you’ve ever thought about getting involved, there’s always room for more people who want to make a difference! Visit https://hubs.li/Q04cL-bK0.

04/19/2026

Residents at Fieldstone of DeWitt, a WellSpire Community, tried out a popular craft last week, proving age has no bearing on trendiness!

Using beads and wire, they created beautiful beaded plants, each one unique and reflecting the personality of the artist. The beads were small, and sometimes desired placement took patience ... but from the smiles you see here, the residents achieved what they set out to do.

Art brings joy to many of us, and creating opportunities to experience joy is what we're about. Visit https://hubs.li/Q04cBQVS0 to learn more about our joy-filled community just north of the Quad Cities!