Blog Archives - John Knox Village

Portrait photo of young woman dressed in Air Force uniform

Meet Freda Routt, U.S. Air Force Veteran

November 6, 2026/in Blog

For Veterans Day this November, JKV honors all 170+ retired military residents. Here is one Veteran resident’s story and why she loves where she lives.

Freda grew up in a Navy family that moved frequently before finally settling in Virginia Beach, where her father retired from military service. After attending college and changing majors a couple of times, she decided to join the military. Although her dad was a Navy veteran, he encouraged Freda and her brother to join the Air Force. She joined the Air Force in September 1975 and served for four years until August 1979.

Freda went to Basic Training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas, and technical school at Lowry AFB in Aurora, Colorado, where she studied Inventory Management. Her first duty station was K.I. Sawyer AFB in Marquette, Michigan. Located on the Upper Peninsula of Michigan on the shores of Lake Superior, it was quite a change from Virginia. She arrived there in January, when the cold and snow were quite a shock for a girl from Virginia. While there, she enjoyed many activities in the local area and earned recognition as Pride Airman of the Month and Quarter, as well as a medal for Meritorious Service.

Her next duty station was Incirlik Common Defense Installation in Incirlik, Turkey. Quite a change from Upper Michigan! Freda enjoyed learning about the local area and culture. She even took archaeology classes given on base by the University of Maryland and went on many field trips to interesting historical and archaeological sites.

Freda earned the rank of Staff Sergeant, E-5, in less than four years of service. She decided to leave the military after her enlistment was up. However, after finishing college, she returned to government service as a civilian in the field of Inventory Management and Logistics, first with the Navy and then with the Coast Guard. Her time in the Air Force led her to a great career and retirement.

U.S. Air Force female soldier in uniform accepting an award from a uniformed superior

Freda Routt, U.S. Air Force

Freda moved to John Knox Village with her wife, Scooter – also a retired veteran, in November 2024 from the Fort Myers area. They were searching for an inclusive community, and were drawn to JKV for the warm, welcoming culture and sense of community. Along with Scooter, Freda enjoys the extensive life enriching activities offered at JKV, especially the local field trips and the opportunity to sing in JKV’s chorus. Her favorite thing about JKV is the people here and meeting so many new friends.

We are honored that Freda and her wife Scooter have chosen to make John Knox Village in Pompano Beach their home.

John Knox Village (JKV)

For almost 60 years, JKV has set the bar when it comes to delivering an all-inclusive resort lifestyle designed for living life to the fullest at each stage of retirement. JKV emphasizes fitness and overall well-being with world-class programming, state-of-the-art amenities, healthy and delicious dining, and much more. Residents are entitled to unlimited use of healthcare services and 24/7 healthcare professionals on campus. There are no time or financial limits on the long-term care benefits that residents receive, regardless of the level of care required. Simply put, a life plan agreement at JKV provides a fiscal safety net with an unparalleled community geared to a wide range of needs, whatever the road ahead brings.

Want to learn more about what John Knox Village has to offer? Contact us today or call (954) 783-4040 to take a tour, or for a no-pressure conversation with one of our Life Plan Consultants.

Old photo of a soldier dressed in uniform

Meet Bob Atkins, Retired U.S. Army Aviation Corps Specialist, 5th Class

November 3, 2026/in Blog

For Veterans Day this November, JKV honors all 170+ retired military residents. Here is one Veteran resident’s story and why he loves where he lives.

For the past two years, Bob Atkins and his wife Karen have made JKV their home. Since first arriving, Bob has been sought out to share his story with the community because he saved many lives in Vietnam.

Bob knew he was headed to Vietnam, so he joined the Army Aviation Corps. “I decided I’d rather fly over the jungle rather than walk through it,” he said. Bob attended helicopter training school in Alabama and was assigned as the crew chief on a rescue-and-recovery helicopter in Vietnam during 1967-68.

“We had just one mission,” Bob said, “to rescue the crew if a U.S. helicopter went down. We would sit on the outskirts of the combat zones. If a U.S. helicopter went down, we went in immediately to rescue the crew. Sometimes we got air support, and sometimes we didn’t. We’d go in anyway because there were lives on the line.”

As crew chief, Bob was responsible for all maintenance to be able to keep his helicopter in the air at all times. It wasn’t unusual for him to return to base in a helicopter with bullet holes through the tail boom or even a rotor blade. Ignoring Army protocols, Bob would use heavy duct tape to patch the holes and secure the rotors. “We were never down for more than one day,” he said. In addition to his maintenance responsibilities, Bob also manned one of the two machine guns on board from his open-door seat on the helicopter.

Vietnam U.S. soldier sitting in the open doorway of a grounded Army helicopter

U.S. Army Aviation Corps Specialist Bob Atkins in Vietnam

Even after such dedicated service, Bob’s return home was a nightmare. When his plane landed in California, the soldiers on board were told to change into civilian clothes and not wear their uniforms off the plane so they wouldn’t be recognized. It didn’t work. “People could tell we were soldiers because we were still wearing our combat boots. We had rocks thrown at us. People spit at us; they called us names. It was terrible and completely unexpected,” he said.

Bob’s life post-service was fulfilling, as he and his wife Karen raised a son as he made a successful career as in manufacturing until he retired.

Two things helped Bob eventually embrace being a Vietnam veteran. First, as a vet, he used the G.I. Bill to fund his college education and embark on a successful, rewarding career. Second, he has been involved in the “Honor Flight” for the past 10 years. The Honor Flight is a free, all-expense-paid trip that transports U.S. military veterans to Washington, DC, giving them a chance to visit memorials built in their honor. “It’s very rewarding to me because I get to meet a lot of veterans and be with them all day,” Bob said. “It’s a lot of fun and at the same time very meaningful for all of the volunteers as well as the veterans.”

Bob says about living at JKV, “Karen and I were looking for a place that provided long-term healthcare, and what we found at JKV is the perfect solution. We were very impressed with all the information, tours, and videos, but it really wasn’t until we actually moved in that we discovered the activities, amenities, and benefits. The social interaction is truly amazing, and the activities planned by our Life Enrichment department are outstanding in every way. There are so many wonderful activities that we can’t do them all… but we try! There are so many advantages to living here…the Aquatic Complex, the Fitness Center, the many libraries, the entertainment activities, the RAS, and the wood shop. And we feel safe living here – we definitely feel we live in a secure community.”

We are honored that Bob and his wife Karen have chosen to make John Knox Village in Pompano Beach their home.

U.S. Army soldier standing beside an Army helicopter on the tarmac

U.S. Army Aviation Corps Specialist, Bob Atkins

John Knox Village (JKV)

For almost 60 years, JKV has set the bar when it comes to delivering an all-inclusive resort lifestyle designed for living life to the fullest at each stage of retirement. JKV emphasizes fitness and overall well-being with world-class programming, state-of-the-art amenities, healthy and delicious dining, and much more. Residents are entitled to unlimited use of healthcare services and 24/7 healthcare professionals on campus. There are no time or financial limits on the long-term care benefits that residents receive, regardless of the level of care required. Simply put, a life plan agreement at JKV provides a fiscal safety net with an unparalleled community geared to a wide range of needs, whatever the road ahead brings.

Want to learn more about what John Knox Village has to offer? Contact us today or call (954) 783-4040 to take a tour, or for a no-pressure conversation with one of our Life Plan Consultants.

Life Plan Communities: What You Should Know

November 2, 2026/in Blog

If you’re an active senior, the decision about whether or not to move to a senior living community can be overwhelming, especially when there are so many options. It’s important to understand what each option offers.

Here’s a closer look at each one.

Aging in Place

Many people feel they want to stay in their own homes for as long as possible. However, aging in place may not be a realistic option for those who face health concerns down the road, or may reach a point in their lives when they no longer want or are no longer able to contend with attending to home maintenance. Without adequate planning and support, a medical or home repair emergency could present a significant financial burden or other problematic outcomes.

Rental Communities

Of all your options, moving into a rental community has the lowest entry cost. You sign a lease, pay a security deposit, possibly some community fees and move in. Some senior rental communities may partner with area organizations that offer higher care, but they are not required to provide you with any health care or any guidance. Any healthcare services or long-term care you might ever need are not included in your rental cost.

Life Plan Communities

Life Plan communities, also known as Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) provide the security of having a plan in place for any future health care needs that might arise. Residents live independently while enjoying life with peace of mind, knowing if they ever need care, they’ll have it. Most CCRCs offer multiple service levels: independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing, all available if you need them.

Choosing to move to a Life Plan community is a proactive move for seniors who are independent today, thinking ahead to be prepared for whatever the future might bring.

Click below to hear from Kim Ali, JKV’s Vice President of Sales & Marketing, and learn more about what a Life Plan community offers.

Why Choose a Life Plan Community?

When you choose to move to a Life Plan community, you are given a Life Care agreement — a contract that assures that your health care costs for assisted living or skilled nursing, should you ever need them down the road, will already be covered. It’s an important financial decision that enables you to put a plan in place, allowing you to make decisions for yourself, without leaving potentially big decisions up to someone else to make on your behalf. It alleviates concerns like, “Who will care for me if I’m ever unable to care for myself?”, “What will that cost?”, and “Where will I live?” A Life Care agreement gives you the peace of mind to avoid you, or your family, needing to make decisions in a crisis situation, when your options may not be optimal.

Why Now?

The decision to move is a big one, and a personal one at that. Moving into a life plan community while you still qualify to do so can secure your future and protect your wealth in a way that aging in place, and traditional senior living communities cannot. It is an investment in yourself, and one that ensures that you have a plan in place, regardless of possible future health care needs.

About John Knox Village

For nearly 60 years, John Knox Village of Pompano Beach, Florida has set the standard for all-inclusive, resort-style retirement living. Residents enjoy world-class fitness programs, state-of-the-art amenities, nutritious dining, and a vibrant calendar of activities designed to promote total well-being.

JKV also offers peace of mind with on-campus healthcare, 24/7 security, and no time or financial limits on long-term care benefits — a hallmark of its Life Plan contract.

Ready to Make Your Move?

At JKV, starting your next chapter doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Residents experience a smooth, stress-free transition and begin enjoying all that JKV has to offer right away.

To learn more about living at John Knox Village or to schedule a personal visit, contact our team today or call (954) 783-4040.

Meet Terry “Scooter” Hayes, Retired U.S. Army

October 27, 2026/in Blog

For Veterans Day this November, JKV honors all 170+ retired military residents. Here is one Veteran resident’s story and why she loves where she lives.

After graduating from high school in 1976, Terry Hayes attended The Art Institute of Atlanta. After completing one year, she realized her family’s financial situation would not allow her to continue attending college, with two sisters also attending college. So, she enrolled in the U.S. Army’s delayed enlistment program, following in her father’s footsteps.

Terry, who later adopted the nickname, “Scooter,” went to Fort McClellan, Alabama for basic training. According to Scooter, soldier women received the same training as men. But she loved the rigors of training and earned sharpshooter badges for her skills with both rifles and hand grenades.

Unfortunately, Scooter sustained a serious knee injury during basic training, which later limited her time in service.

After graduating, she went to Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri to train as a heavy equipment operator. There, Scooter learned to operate two-ton dump trucks, tractor-trailers, bulldozers, earth augers, scrapers, power rollers, and more. As a petite, slightly-built woman, this was no easy feat, and her colleagues would notice and remark on it. She was then sent to the Presidio of San Francisco to join the 51st Engineer Detachment. She loved the Army and enjoyed the hard daily work. However, her knee injury continued to plague her, so the time came that Scooter was no longer able to continue in service.

Years later, doctors determined that a progressive brain disease had begun during her military service. Scooter became paraplegic in 2017. Today, she belongs to Disabled American Veterans (DAV) and Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA). She became an expert in fencing, competed in the National Veterans Wheelchair Games and participated in veterans’ downhill sit-skiing and adaptive waterskiing camps.

Scooter and Freda, her wife of 28 years, moved to JKV in 2024. They love all the art classes, trips, and activities. JKV is a perfect fit for this active and fun-loving couple. They say they just wish they had moved here earlier!

We are honored that Scooter and Freda, also a retired veteran, have chosen to make John Knox Village in Pompano Beach their home.

John Knox Village (JKV)

For almost 60 years, JKV has set the bar when it comes to delivering an all-inclusive resort lifestyle designed for living life to the fullest at each stage of retirement. JKV emphasizes fitness and overall well-being with world-class programming, state-of-the-art amenities, healthy and delicious dining, and much more. Residents are entitled to unlimited use of healthcare services and 24/7 healthcare professionals on campus. There are no time or financial limits on the long-term care benefits that residents receive, regardless of the level of care required. Simply put, a life plan agreement at JKV provides a fiscal safety net with an unparalleled community geared to a wide range of needs, whatever the road ahead brings.

Want to learn more about what John Knox Village has to offer? Contact us today or call (954) 783-4040 to take a tour, or for a no-pressure conversation with one of our Life Plan Consultants.

Portrait of Army colonel in uniform sitting before an American flag

Meet Bill Sullivan, Retired U.S. Army Colonel

October 22, 2026/in Blog

For Veterans Day this November, JKV honors all 170+ retired military residents. Here is one Veteran resident’s story and why he loves where he lives.

Bill Sullivan was drafted in 1969 and reported for induction at the Armed Forces Entrance and Examination Station (AFEES) in Jacksonville, Florida, just as Neil Armstrong took humanity’s first steps on the moon. He began basic training as a Private E-1 at Fort Dix, New Jersey, and nine weeks later received his commission as a Reserve Army Captain in the Judge Advocate General’s Corps (JAGC).

Bill continued his training with a two-week officer orientation course at Fort Lee, Virginia, followed by the two-month JAG Basic Course at the University of Virginia. After graduating on Christmas 1969, he received orders to report to Fort Riley, Kansas, in January 1970.

At Fort Riley, Bill worked for a colonel he greatly respected. When the colonel was reassigned to Army Headquarters in Okinawa, then a U.S. protectorate, Bill requested a transfer to join the colonel there. His request was granted a few months later. Bill and his wife, Judy, welcomed their first child at Fort Riley. When Judy joined him in Okinawa, she was pregnant with their second daughter, who was born a month later.

One of Bill’s most memorable assignments was serving on the Army Homecoming Team during Operation Homecoming at Clark Air Base in the Philippines, from January through April 1973. With hostilities in Vietnam ending, American prisoners of war were being repatriated. Many arrived at Clark for debriefing before continuing to Germany and then the United States.

The Army assembled a team of doctors, social workers, chaplains, attorneys, and finance officers to help the returning servicemen address their questions and concerns. Bill vividly remembers standing on the tarmac as Air Force transports landed and the men descended the boarding ramps. “There wasn’t a dry eye in the house,” he recalls.

Years later, he witnessed a similar emotional homecoming while standing on the tarmac at Hunter Army Airfield in South Carolina, as troops returned after the first Gulf War.

Okinawa was Bill’s final active-duty assignment. After leaving active duty in 1974, he and Judy moved to Lighthouse Point, Florida, with their two young daughters. Both were South Florida natives — Bill from Miami and Judy from Coral Gables — and were eager to return home. That same year, Bill began practicing law with his fraternity brother, Peter Portley. Their professional partnership continued until both retired in 2020.

Bill served on active duty from 1969 to 1974 and wisely remained in the Active Reserve, ultimately retiring as a colonel in 1997.

Reflecting on his military service, Bill says, “I always smile when someone thanks me for my service because I truly feel that I got more than I gave. Judy and I loved the culture of the military community. We made so many great friends and shared so many wonderful experiences. There is a camaraderie in military service that is hard to explain unless you’ve experienced it. We both loved it and will always cherish the memories.”

Today, Bill feels right at home at John Knox Village (JKV), surrounded by fellow veterans and heroes. He and Judy will celebrate their third anniversary as JKV residents this February. He explains:

“JKV embodies the spirit and charm of the close-knit small town we came to love during our 50 years in Lighthouse Point, along with the inclusive, caring, and giving culture we experienced and cherished in military life. We both agree that moving to JKV was one of the best decisions we’ve made in our 59-year partnership.”

John Knox Village (JKV)

For almost 60 years, JKV has set the bar when it comes to delivering an all-inclusive resort lifestyle designed for living life to the fullest at each stage of retirement. JKV emphasizes fitness and overall well-being with world-class programming, state-of-the-art amenities, healthy and delicious dining, and much more. Residents are entitled to unlimited use of healthcare services and 24/7 healthcare professionals on campus. There are no time or financial limits on the long-term care benefits that residents receive, regardless of the level of care required. Simply put, a life plan agreement at JKV provides a fiscal safety net with an unparalleled community geared to a wide range of needs, whatever the road ahead brings.

Want to learn more about what John Knox Village has to offer? Contact us today or call (954) 783-4040 to take a tour, or for a no-pressure conversation with one of our Life Plan Consultants.

Celebrating 10 Years of The Green House Model at The Woodlands — and the Residents Who Made It Possible

July 30, 2026/in Blog

Resident Marilyn Blessing speaks to crowd in auditorium

Marilyn Blessing shares her story as one of the JKV residents who were instrumental in bringing the Green House Model® to The Woodlands

“I vividly remember being at John Knox Village for the grand opening of The Woodlands ten years ago—the energy and excitement, and the clear sense that something truly meaningful had been created. What made it so powerful then, and remains so today, is that it was a resident-driven vision brought to life. A decade later, JKV stands as a compelling example of what’s possible when community is shaped by dignity, connection, and belonging.” — Susan Frazier Ryan, CEO, The Green House Model®

This summer, John Knox Village (JKV) celebrates the 10th anniversary of bringing The Green House Model® of care to its campus—a milestone made possible by the vision and determination of its own residents. Founded in 2003 by Dr. Bill Thomas, The Green House Model® is a nonprofit, internationally recognized approach to eldercare that replaces traditional nursing homes with residential-style homes featuring private bedrooms and bathrooms centered around a shared living room and hearth, open kitchen, and dining area. John Knox Village in Pompano Beach became the first senior living community in Florida to adopt the innovative model after a coalition of independent living residents championed its implementation at The Woodlands.

Today, The Woodlands features twelve Green House homes—two on each of its six floors dedicated to skilled nursing, in addition to dedicated floors for rehab, for both residents and non-residents. In total, 144 private rooms are designed to foster meaningful relationships, dignity, and a true sense of home.

To commemorate the anniversary, JKV President and CEO Melissa B. Honig recently hosted a special celebration honoring the residents whose leadership and perseverance helped bring The Green House Model® to John Knox Village. The event also introduced newer residents to this important chapter in the community’s history, with several of the original resident advocates sharing firsthand stories about the years-long effort that transformed long-term care at JKV.

Honig, who was appointed President and CEO in October 2025, has a longstanding connection to John Knox Village and a deep appreciation for its resident-centered philosophy.

“My first relationship with JKV was in 2011 during my work with The Green House Project, a Robert Wood Johnson Foundation initiative,” said Honig. “I have long been inspired by JKV’s commitment to forward-thinking senior living solutions. JKV continues to demonstrate an unwavering commitment to creating a person-directed care environment that enriches the lives of both residents and team members.”

Susan Frazier Ryan, The Green House Model® CEO, says, “I vividly remember being at John Knox Village for the grand opening of The Woodlands ten years ago—the energy and excitement, and the clear sense that something truly meaningful had been created. What made it so powerful then, and remains so today, is that it was a resident-driven vision brought to life. A decade later, JKV stands as a compelling example of what’s possible when community is shaped by dignity, connection, and belonging.”

Unlike traditional nursing homes, The Green House Model® centers on three guiding principles: meaningful lives, real homes, and empowered staff. Residents enjoy freshly prepared meals, flexible daily routines, and caregivers known as Shahbazim — a Persian term meaning “royal falcon”, used in modern eldercare to describe versatile direct-care workers who protect and nurture seniors. Shahbazim build close, personal relationships with the people they support by understanding each resident as an individual. Supported by clinical teams, Guides, and volunteer Sages, this collaborative approach has been shown to strengthen family involvement, improve quality of life, increase resident independence, and boost staff satisfaction and retention.

Looking ahead, Honig plans to build upon that foundation through a multi-year cultural and operational partnership with The Green House Project® (now AgingIN). The initiative will strengthen staff education, expand internal training, and reinforce the person-directed philosophy that has distinguished John Knox Village for the past decade. Honig adds, “The Green House Model is about growing people, and we’re honored to fulfill that decade-long commitment into the future.”

John Knox Village (JKV)
For almost 60 years, JKV has set the bar when it comes to delivering an all-inclusive resort lifestyle designed for living life to the fullest at each stage of retirement. JKV emphasizes fitness and overall well-being with world-class programming, state-of-the-art amenities, healthy and delicious dining, and much more. Residents are entitled to unlimited use of healthcare services and 24/7 healthcare professionals on campus. There are no time or financial limits on the long-term care benefits that residents receive, regardless of the level of care required. Simply put, a life plan agreement at JKV provides a fiscal safety net with an unparalleled community geared to a wide range of needs, whatever the road ahead brings.

Want to learn more about what John Knox Village has to offer? Contact us today to take a tour or for a no-pressure conversation with one of our Life Plan Consultants.

Pride Lives Here text on white background with colorful paint swirled to the side

Celebrating Diversity and Inclusion: Honoring Pride Month and Beyond

June 11, 2026/in Blog

Pride Month is celebrated each June to honor the 1969 Stonewall Uprising in Manhattan, a pivotal event that helped ignite the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement. What began as a single day and later a week of solidarity events has evolved into a month-long global celebration of diversity, equality, and inclusion.

At John Knox Village (JKV), South Florida’s premier Life Plan Community in Pompano Beach, inclusiveness and celebration are part of everyday life.

Many of our LGBTQ+ residents have chosen to make the move to JKV, an active senior living community, after living in Wilton Manors, located just a few miles south of Pompano Beach in Broward County. Known as the “Island City,” Wilton Manors is recognized as one of the nation’s most vibrant LGBTQ+ communities and has one of the highest concentrations of same-sex couples in the United States.

Our diverse community of more than 1,000 residents welcomes people from all backgrounds, lifestyles, and interests. We are proud of our growing LGBTQ+ population, whose members are valued, embraced, and thriving at JKV. Pride Month provides a meaningful opportunity to celebrate the individuality, contributions, and connections that make our community so special.

Just ask our residents!

Linda A., resident since 2022:
“It wasn’t until I came to JKV that I finally found the perfect culture, people, and spirit of what I was looking for, which was positive, vibrant, caring, and very inclusive. The best decision I ever made is to live life to the fullest and write another exciting chapter at John Knox Village.”

Tom M., resident since 2013:
“For an easy retirement life full of fun, new friends, good food, and no worries, which includes access to some of the best health interventions to be found, come to John Knox Village in Pompano. You will soon discover that it is among the best decisions you will ever make.”

Paul S., resident since 2021:
“JKV has a warm and welcoming culture that projects friendliness, mutual respect and caring that contagiously affects all residents. That same embrace is felt from our staff, management, and leadership at all levels.”

Terry “Scooter” H., resident since 2024:
“I never in a million years thought I could find a CCRC (Continuing Care Retirement Community) that was as accepting and loving as JKV. I love how accessible all the events, activities, and trips are. The diversity of people here makes it easy to find friends. We feel like this is home, and we have lived here forever.”

Jay S., resident since 2021:
“There are so many activities that you don’t have time to feel lonely or bored or anything like that. I lived in Wilton Manors, but when my partner died, I was so lonely and sad. I am so very happy my friends recommended JKV. I feel safe and very happy here.”

Christopher C., resident since 2023:
“The one thing that strikes me every day is how stress-free my life is here at JKV. I am disbelieving that I’m living in a resort-like atmosphere that I don’t have to maintain. The people and community are genuine, friendly, and truly make up the great life here!”

John Knox Village (JKV)
For almost 60 years, JKV has set the bar when it comes to delivering an all-inclusive resort lifestyle designed for living life to the fullest at each stage of retirement. JKV emphasizes fitness and overall well-being with world-class programming, state-of-the-art amenities, healthy and delicious dining, and much more. Residents are entitled to unlimited use of healthcare services and 24/7 healthcare professionals on campus. There are no time or financial limits on the long-term care benefits that residents receive, regardless of the level of care required. Simply put, a life plan agreement at JKV provides a fiscal safety net with an unparalleled community geared to a wide range of needs, whatever the road ahead brings.

Want to learn more about what John Knox Village has to offer? Contact us today to take a tour or for a no-pressure conversation with one of our Life Plan Consultants.

Team member spotlight on CNA Charite Germinald

Charite Germinald, Celebrating 35 Years at JKV

May 7, 2026/in Blog

For 35 years, Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Charite Germinald has devoted her career to caring for residents at John Knox Village (JKV). For the past 20 years, she has served as an aide at Gardens West, JKV’s assisted living residence. Originally from Haiti, Charite moved to Florida in 1979 with her mother and husband. Charite, who now has two adult daughters born and raised here in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, became a U.S. citizen 36 years ago.

John Knox Village is South Florida’s premier Life Plan Retirement Community, offering a full continuum of care—from independent living and assisted living to short- and long-term skilled nursing. As a member of the assisted living team, Charite spends her days working closely with residents, supporting them with encouragement, compassion, and warmth.

“It is my job to make the residents as happy as possible,” says Charite. “JKV is their home—you become their family. It is a blessing to have the opportunity to help. We make sure they have everything they need to be comfortable and to answer any questions they have. There are always lots of questions!” she adds with a smile.

Though skilled nursing residences are available on campus, Charite is committed to helping residents remain at Gardens West whenever possible, providing additional care and attention to support their independence.

“I love people, and I love working at JKV,” she adds. “I’ve seen so many changes over the years. It’s grown from a small village into more of a city—but what I appreciate most is how thoughtfully management has handled that growth.”

Charite is proud to say she has been working in the United States for the past 44 years. She was married for 25 years, but her husband, a hardworking bus driver, passed away 21 years ago. Today, she is a proud grandmother of three and keeps busy with her church, ladies’ group, and volunteering.

Gardens West features contemporary suites and studio apartments with private bathrooms, 24-hour CNA support, and daily nursing services, including medication management. Residents enjoy three chef-prepared meals daily in a spacious dining room, along with 24-hour access to snacks and beverages, and the option to dine at venues throughout the campus. A full calendar of life enrichment programs and social activities encourages engagement and connection.

Residents also have access to JKV’s extensive amenities, including beautifully landscaped walking paths, a fitness studio with daily classes, an aquatic complex, performing arts center, on-site salon and spa, dog park, housekeeping and laundry services, scheduled transportation, and 24/7 gated security.

Discover what makes John Knox Village exceptional. We invite you to visit, explore the campus, and meet the dedicated team members—like Charite—who make this community truly feel like home.

About John Knox Village, Pompano Beach
John Knox Village (JKV) is an internationally award-winning Life-Plan Continuing Care Retirement Community located in Pompano Beach, Florida.

Founded in 1967, JKV is home to approximately 1,000 residents and offers a full continuum of care, from independent living to assisted living and skilled nursing, within a lush, botanical 70-acre campus. JKV offers an upscale, enriching lifestyle within a supportive, stress-free environment. The community combines exceptional amenities with lifelong learning opportunities, innovative wellness programs, and services designed to nurture the mind, body, and spirit. Its dedicated team consistently delivers a forward-thinking approach to modern retirement living.

We invite you to learn more and experience our breathtaking campus, astounding amenities, the exceptional team, and our remarkable residents who are all part of what makes JKV extraordinary. Contact us today to learn more and schedule a personal tour.

Sales Consultant at a table talking to senior man

Be in the Know: Life Plan Communities Offer Valuable Tax Benefits

April 7, 2026/in Blog

When looking at retirement living options, buying or renting into a senior living community are well-known options. But choosing to live in a Life Plan Community offers some valuable federal tax benefits that other senior living options do not. Read on to learn more.

What is a Life Plan Community?

Life Plan Communities, also known as Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs), provide the security of having a plan in place for any future healthcare needs that might arise. Residents enjoy independent living today, with the confidence that quality care will be available if they ever need it. Most CCRCs offer multiple service levels: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Skilled Nursing, and memory support services, all available when you need them.

What are the tax benefits?

Current federal income tax laws permit residents of CCRCs, like John Knox Village of Pompano Beach, to write off a sizeable portion of the one-time entrance fee as a medical deduction for the move-in year. Additionally, a percentage of the monthly service paid each year can be itemized as a medical expense.

At the beginning of each year, in some communities, such as John Knox Village, auditors calculate the portion of the Entrance Fees and Monthly Service Fees that are attributable to medical expenses and provide this information to residents for their tax preparation.

Can a financial advisor help me navigate this?

Tax and financial advisors can play a crucial role in helping seniors living in CCRCs and Life Plan Communities navigate the complexities of tax laws related to their unique situation. An advisor can help you understand CCRC-related tax deductions, such as:

• The amount or portion of your healthcare services and fees to the CCRC, as applicable
• Other potential itemizable deductions, such as local income taxes related to living in a CCRC
• Specific tax implications of different types of CCRC contracts, including the nuances of life care, fee-for-service, and other modified contracts

In addition, financial advisors can help seniors project future healthcare needs and provide guidance on potential tax implications for accessing long-term care services within or outside of the CCRC.

How much can I deduct?

According to Carol Enisman, Investment Advisor Representative and Managing Partner at Premier Wealth Planning in Fort Lauderdale, “The current tax code allows you to deduct a portion of your unreimbursed medical and dental expenses that exceed a set percentage of your Adjusted Gross Income.”

However, she says, it’s important to note that you’ll need to itemize your deductions rather than take a standard deduction, which would disqualify you from claiming medical expenses.

I’m not sure which type of care contract I should choose. Can you tell me the tax benefits of each?

The tax benefits may vary, depending on which type of care contract you select. A Life Plan Community Consultant can explain the different contract options, including Type A, B, and C contracts, and what each includes. Depending on how much healthcare coverage is included in the contract you choose, the medical expense tax benefit may vary.

For some types of CCRC contracts, a portion of the entry fee and monthly fee may be applied toward future medical expenses. Essentially, this portion is considered a pre-paid medical expense and may be included as part of your annual medical expenses.

Are there any other deductions seniors should keep in mind when filing taxes?

Many healthcare-related expenses — such as hospital bills, prescriptions, dental and vision care, in-home medical care, and hearing aids — may be tax-deductible if you itemize deductions.

The IRS allows you to deduct qualified unreimbursed medical expenses that exceed 7.5% of your adjusted gross income (AGI).

In addition, transportation costs for medical care, such as mileage to and from doctor’s appointments, as well as parking and tolls — may also qualify.

The bottom line?

A Life Plan Community can offer some true financial and tax benefits that other senior living options do not. Be sure to do your research. Make sure you’re taking advantage of any deductions you may be eligible to take.

Most importantly, it is always best to speak with your tax professional, who will be able to advise you with up-to-date tax regulations.

Want to learn more about John Knox Village? Contact us today for a no-pressure conversation with a Life Plan consultant or to schedule a visit.

Why Life Plan Comm Wise Invest blog repost from SFBJ

Why a Life Plan Community is a Wise Investment

April 2, 2026/in Blog

Reprinted from the South Florida Business Journal, March 31, 2023

By Kim Morgan – John Knox Village

Older adults face a variety of choices when planning for their future lifestyle and health care needs. The rising cost of medical care in the U.S., especially long-term care, has made understanding options very important.

The decision to move to a life plan retirement community (also known as continuing care retirement community, or CCRC) is a wise investment in many ways, especially when older adults consider where they would like to age well with purpose, and what a perfect life looks like in retirement. Many life plan communities (LPCs) offer rich social and cultural experiences, excellent health care, security and peace of mind. The financial professionals and estate planners we work with are increasingly advising clients to consider a move to an LPC as it is a responsible option that provides a rewarding lifestyle and ensures long-term health care if the need arises. Residents who choose to live in LPCs are relieved of the stress of becoming a burden to their family, friends and the state as they age.

According to AARP, “The chief benefit of LPCs/CCRCs is that they provide a wide range of care, services and activities in one place, offering residents a sense of stability and familiarity as their abilities or health conditions change. A resident can start out living independently, and later transition to assisted living to get more help with daily activities, or to skilled nursing to receive more medical care, while remaining in the same community.”

Moving to a Life Plan Community Makes Financial Sense

Investing in the future at a life plan community like John Knox Village of Florida (JKV) in Pompano Beach is a proactive move. It comes with the added value of providing health care that may be needed and affords a tangible sense of security for aging in place. An LPC like JKV requires a resident be in good health when moving in, who can then enjoy independent living in a beautiful home with an active lifestyle for as long as possible.

Scott Montgomery, financial advisor to high-net-worth families at Provenance Wealth Advisors in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, says he has often seen clients procrastinate on making a plan by thinking, “I still have time.” But as he notes, “Things can change quickly,” says Montgomery. “This is another strategy — a way to ensure that if you run through your money, you’re not going to have to rely on your children.”

Montgomery feels it is a moral responsibility for professional advisors to talk to their clients about long-term care. “If your financial advisor is not counseling you about long-term care, then reach out to someone who is,” he says.

Life Plan Community Options

NaCCRA (National Continuing Care Residents Association) publishes a Consumer’s Guide as a reference on what to consider when choosing such a move. According to NaCCRA, “It is important, when contemplating a CCRC/LPC, and especially when comparing one to another based on price, to be sure to understand the different types of contracts which are offered.”

There are variations in contracts, however. The two main contracts to consider for moving to an LPC are “Type A” and “Type C.”

Type A Contracts for CCRCs/LPCs

A Type A contract is often referred to as a full care, inclusive contract. At JKV, this contract covers:
• The entrance fee.
• The monthly service fee based on the size of the home selected.
• Unlimited future health care needs with admission to assisted living or skilled nursing.
• All located on JKVs botanical, lush 70-acre campus.

Type C Contracts for CCRCs/LPCs

The Type C contract is usually referred to as a “fee-for” service contract. At JKV, the Type C contract provides the same services as the Type A without the health care benefit:
• With Type C, the resident pays for assisted living or skilled nursing care services as needed, out of pocket.
• JKV residents are charged the prevailing rate for these services with a 10% discount.

More Than a Move—A Lifestyle Upgrade

For nearly 60 years, John Knox Village of Pompano Beach, Florida has set the standard for all-inclusive, resort-style retirement living. Residents enjoy world-class fitness programs, state-of-the-art amenities, nutritious dining, and a vibrant calendar of activities designed to promote total well-being.

JKV also offers peace of mind with on-campus healthcare, 24/7 security, and no time or financial limits on long-term care benefits — a hallmark of its Life-Plan contract.

Ready to Make Your Move?

At JKV, starting your next chapter doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Residents experience a smooth, stress-free transition and begin enjoying all that JKV has to offer right away.

To learn more about living at John Knox Village or to schedule a personal visit, contact our team today.