“We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.” - 2 Corinthians 4:8

I believe this scripture verse describes 2020.  TLRC faced many challenges in 2020 but was not crushed, we did not languish in despair, we worked together so we did not feel abandoned and certainly were not destroyed! As we share this Annual Report with you, it is time to reflect, but believe me, we all agree we are glad it is now behind us. Many events impacted us in 2020, none more so than COVID. Every resident and employee was touched by this, whether diagnosed with it or knew someone who contracted it. Yet, one of the things I love about our team is their resiliency and resourcefulness. Our team not only met the challenge-they rose above it! Our team created ways to keep residents engaged throughout the year. Our team comforted and protected each other. The most common thank you phrase I hear from residents and staff is “Thank you for keeping us safe!” Such great praise!

Our building project continued to move forward and we expect to begin construction in September. Three buildings will be built: one three-story apartment building containing 50 one- and two-bedroom apartments and two villa residences, one five-story and one six-story building containing a total of 41 one and two-bedroom apartments. Throughout the year we have seen more than 100 people express interest in moving to our campus and are currently in the process of sharing pricing and floor plans. I encourage you to stop by our Sales Center located in Highlands Six-Plex A5 or continue to check our website for the latest information.

Quality programs and services for all our residents have always been a hallmark of our organization. To that end, I want to acknowledge the hard work our staff members have done in maintaining our 5-Star Rating from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services throughout the pandemic. This is not easy to accomplish, even when not dealing with a pandemic. To maintain this status during the pandemic is spectacular. I am so proud of and grateful to our staff.

We began a rebranding process in 2020, which allowed us to update our colors, our logo, our Mission, Vision and Values Statements and our name. This process utilized a task force that included voices from residents, employees and Board members. It stretched over 8-9 months and involved deliberating over more than 30 name options. We are excited about our new name as it will take us into the future with confidence, pays homage to our founders and reflects on the growth we have achieved over the years.

As the door closes on 2020 and Tacoma Lutheran Retirement Community, we look forward to the future with hope and excitement as eliseo. I am also grateful for the support received from the community, employees, Board members, volunteers, business partners and residents. Yes, we were challenged in 2020. However, we achieved many successes as you will see throughout this Annual Report. Our future is bright and we look forward to you joining us on the journey!