It is hard to believe that ECS will be celebrating its one hundredth Christmas this year. Over this time a lot has changed, both in the world and for us as an organization. Fortunately, our mission and values have not, and neither has the spirit of Christmas.

Collectively, our communities have more than 600 residents who continue to live active, inspired lives. There are also nearly 500 Team Members who are dedicated to helping seniors live a life full of possibility. For us, the holidays provide the perfect opportunity for everyone of all faiths to come together to share the cheer and joys of the season.

Choosing an ECS continuing care retirement community to call home means having so many things to celebrate – an enviable lifestyle, a continuum of care, and meaningful social connections with friends, neighbors, and the greater community at large. In all ways, our communities are designed to share goodwill among all we serve and those we meet along the way. It is why Christmas is so special to us. 

Food is always an important part of the Christmas celebration, and our Culinary Teams love to pull out all the stops. Javier Sarmiento, Dining Services Director at The Covington notes that there are multiple religious beliefs within the community. “When there’s a religious holiday, our chefs are amazing at creating delicious meals that are typical for that celebration – be it Chinese New Year, Passover, or Christmas Dinner.”

Christmas is also about family and many residents enjoy hosting gatherings in their own homes. Tom Brunkow, a retired pastor and avid tennis player, and wife Katherine, a retired therapist and prolific painter, say their home at MonteCedro is perfect for entertaining. “It is no problem to cook a turkey in my kitchen,” says Katherine.

Having a community of friends and neighbors is vital at this time of year. Our residents enjoy many opportunities to come together – from tree trimming parties to Christmas sweater contests. Even different departments of Team Members try to outdo each other to see who can decorate the most elaborately. Celeste Stump, Chaplin at The Canterbury says there are plenty of smiles around her community at this time of year, but for some, the absence of loved ones can be difficult. To help with and acknowledge these feelings, Liz says they hold an annual ‘Getting Through the Holidays’ event. “It brings great comfort,” she says. 

This Christmas as we reflect on nearly a century of senior living, we feel incredibly blessed to be part of something both special and important and are grateful for the spirit of Christmas that endures in our communities. From all of us at ECS, we wish you and your family many good tidings and a very joyful holiday season.

About us

Founded on four commitments – choice, creativity, confidence, and connection – ECS provides relaxed, maintenance-free, resort-style living in beautiful, continuing care, retirement community settings in Southern California.

Celebrating 100 years of exceptional services for seniors. Proudly nonprofit. Contact us today to learn more.