The Woodlands Celebrates 15 Years

On June 11, residents of The Woodlands Independent Living community gathered under sunny skies for a cookout celebration commemorating the 15th anniversary of this vibrant retirement community. The milestone marked the opening of The Woodlands on June 1, 2010, an option for independent living on the campus of Alice Peck Day.
The groundbreaking ceremony on the wooded hillside above Harvest Hill Assisted Living on Aug. 20, 2008, included nearly 40 prospective residents celebrating the start of a new chapter in senior living in Lebanon, New Hampshire. Two years later, David M. became the first official resident to move in.
Today, nine original residents still call The Woodlands home: Alberta E., Nan L., Priscilla E., Jan H, Carol K, Dan L, Betsy B, Charles R., and Peggy R. For them, this 15th anniversary is more than a move-in date, it reflects a shared journey of friendship, growth and community.
A Place That Felt Right from the Start
For one original resident, the idea of moving to The Woodlands came while visiting a friend at Harvest Hill. “She told me about The Woodlands,” the resident shared. “It sounded like a place I would like to live so I made an appointment to see the apartments. I had to wear a hard hat because it was still under construction. I really liked the space, so I bought the apartment.”
Another early resident recalled initially being curious about the building but not actively searching for an independent living community. “We knew about Harvest Hill but weren’t looking for assisted living at the time. The Woodlands caught our eye.”



Change and Connection in Time
Much has evolved during the last 15 years at The Woodlands, especially its affiliation with Dartmouth Health, which one resident described as “changing everything for the better.”
Still, some things haven’t changed. “Friends come and go, but the friendliness has always remained,” said another original resident.
Many residents pointed to the spirit of intellectual engagement and participation that defines the community. “Our residents are well-educated, with fascinating backgrounds. Many are Dartmouth graduates. It’s a place where people care deeply, contribute ideas and want to make The Woodlands better for everyone,” a resident shares.

True Community
When asked how their definition of community has changed since moving in, long-time residents spoke to a deepened sense of connection and friendship.
“The word ‘community’ has real meaning here,” one said. “I feel it every day when I see my friends. We care about each other. We support one another. That’s something special.”
Another noted how being a resident-run independent living community helps The Woodlands stand apart. “There’s a wide variety of resident-led activities, which makes this a unique and popular place to live. I’ve heard there’s quite a waiting list, and it’s no surprise why.”



Looking Back and Ahead
For the nine original residents at The Woodlands, this 15-year milestone brings a sense of pride and gratitude.
“It was nice being an original resident,” one said. “I’m so happy to have been here for 15 years. I have so many good friends. The Woodlands is a wonderful place, I always feel safe here.”
Another continues to help shape the future of the community by volunteering as a tour guide for prospective residents. “I love showing people around and sharing what life is really like here,” she said. “It’s a joy to welcome the next generation.”
Special mention was made to Dining Room Manager, Michelle Fifield, who has worked for Alice Peck Day Memorial Hospital for over 30 years. One resident described her as “a perfect mother” to the young teen servers who work in the dining room and praised her for setting high expectations and teaching important life skills.
Looking ahead, The Woodlands’ foundation of friendship, engagement and wellness continues to make it one of the most sought-after retirement living options in the Upper Valley.


