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Doug Folsom, John Knox Village Chief Operating Officer

What JKV’s Chief Operating Officer, Doug Folsom Learned at the 2025 LeadingAge Southeast Conference

The 62nd Annual LeadingAge Southeast Convention & Exposition was a premier event for senior living professionals, offering opportunities to learn, network, and explore the latest innovations shaping the industry.

Held in Orlando, Florida, the conference left JKV Chief Operating Officer Doug Folsom energized and inspired.

“This year’s conference was amazing,” Folsom said. “The sessions I attended—covering everything from industry trends, dining innovations, and strategic planning, to the rapid growth of artificial intelligence in healthcare, legal considerations, and preparing future leaders—impressed me beyond measure.”

Fresh Ideas and Future Goals
Folsom said the conversations he had with other industry leaders sparked new ideas for enhancing resident life at JKV.

“Traditionally, continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs) have been among the last to adopt new AI and technology tools,” Folsom said. JKV’s leadership team aims to change that by exploring the purchase of smartwatches for all residents — devices that could help prevent falls, monitor blood pressure, and automatically alert healthcare staff to potential concerns.

“We want to prevent potential problems rather than passively wait for something to happen,” Folsom explained.

The Role of Education—At All Levels
Another key takeaway for Folsom was the importance of education—not only for leadership and staff but also for JKV’s 11-member Board of Directors.

“The Board needs to understand forward-thinking for the long-term, not just day-to-day living at JKV,” he said. “We need a broader scope of what the future is bringing to our industry.”

A Commitment to Stewardship
The conference left Folsom so motivated that he is now seeking additional educational opportunities in the industry, both to attend and potentially present at. Drawing on his experience as JKV’s former CFO, he remains acutely aware of the financial responsibilities facing the senior living industry.

“As always, I believe in being a good steward of our residents’ finances,” Folsom said.

At John Knox Village, the insights gained from conferences like LeadingAge Southeast fuel our ongoing commitment to excellence. By embracing innovation, investing in education at every level, and staying ahead of industry trends, we remain focused on enhancing the quality of life for our residents today and for generations to come. Whether through exploring new technologies like AI and smart health devices, reimagining wellness programs, or continually refining our operations, JKV is dedicated to leading with vision, compassion, and innovation—ensuring that our community and its residents continue to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.

More Than a Move — A Lifestyle Upgrade
For more than 58 years, John Knox Village of Pompano Beach, Florida, has set the gold standard for all-inclusive, resort-style living that empowers older adults to live life to the fullest—at every stage of retirement. The community emphasizes whole-person wellness with state-of-the-art fitness facilities, world-class programming, delicious dining, and much more. Residents enjoy peace of mind with unlimited access to on-campus healthcare professionals, 24/7 care, and comprehensive long-term care benefits. There are no time or financial limits on healthcare services—making JKV a smart, secure choice for the future.

Want to Learn More?

We invite you to experience the vibrant community, world-class amenities, remarkable residents, and exceptional team members who all make John Knox Village extraordinary.   Contact us today to learn more and schedule a visit.

About LeadingAge Southeast
Founded in 1963 as a not-for-profit corporation, LeadingAge Southeast serves members in Florida, Alabama, Louisiana, and Mississippi. Its mission is simple: To expand possibilities for aging through advocacy, education, and service. Based in Tallahassee, Florida, the association represents more than 250 communities, over 500 facilities, and 140+ business associates, serving hundreds of thousands of seniors across the region. Members benefit from up-to-date regulatory guidance, educational opportunities, legislative advocacy, group purchasing, and peer networking.

senior man petting a maltese dog as part of canine assisted therapy

JKV in the News: Canine Assisted Therapy Brings Its Furry Friends to John Knox

The New Pelican, August 7, 2025

by Michael d’Oliveira | Editor 

 

The dogs of Canine Assisted Therapy (CAT) visit the residents at John Knox Village twice a month, bringing joy to the residents living in JKV’s Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing homes.

“When you pet a dog for 15 minutes, it lowers blood pressure and cortisol (stress hormones),” said Rosemary Blumberg, a certified therapeutic recreation therapist.  Blumberg brings Toby, her golden doodle, on regular visits to senior care facilities, hospitals, libraries, and other places around the county where people might benefit from pet therapy.

“The biggest benefit is that he brings smiles to people’s faces…It makes them happy,” says Blumberg.  “It brings up a lot of emotions.”

“You can feel the magic of the moment when these dogs walk into the room — faces light up, energy shifts, and there’s an instant sense of connection.  It’s a beautiful reminder of the comfort and joy animals bring to our lives,” wrote Jackie Ducci, the founder of The Human-Animal Alliance, in an email.

Said John Knox Village resident Will about the visit to John Knox, “It was a treat.”

 

Read the full story here.

 

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.

 

Headshot of Jennifer Stevens, VP Healthcare at John Knox Village

Meet the Experts at JKV: Jennifer Stevens, VP of Healthcare, Leading the Charge for Senior Care Excellence at JKV and Beyond

In an era where the healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, Jennifer Stevens, Vice President of Healthcare at John Knox Village (JKV), has become a beacon of leadership and advocacy in the senior living sector. With an unwavering commitment to improving the quality of life for older adults, Stevens is not only a key figure at JKV, but also a respected thought leader among Florida’s Life-Plan Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs).

Stevens’ extensive experience and dedication have propelled JKV to the forefront of senior care in South Florida. Under her guidance, JKV has earned accolades for its high standards of care, with a comprehensive range of services. JKV’s proactive approach to meeting the diverse needs of its residents has solidified its reputation as a leader in the field.

Stevens has been a strong voice for maintaining adequate government funding to ensure that essential services for older adults remain accessible.

In addition to her role at JKV, Stevens also serves on the Board of Trustees for LeadingAge Southeast, where she is a passionate advocate for senior living communities across Florida. LeadingAge Southeast is a regional association dedicated to supporting nonprofit senior living and aging services organizations in the southeastern United States. It is a part of LeadingAge, a national association that represents nonprofit providers of aging services across the country.

Through her involvement with LeadingAge, Stevens engages directly with state legislators, working to shape policies that impact the senior living industry. One of her key legislative achievements was her successful efforts to delay a bill that could have imposed regulatory overreach on CCRCs. Stevens, along with colleagues from LeadingAge Southeast and the Florida Life Care Association (FLiCRA), lobbied to revise the bill’s language, preventing potential harm to CCRCs and their residents.

Her advocacy doesn’t stop there. Stevens is deeply invested in the financial stability of long-term care services, particularly in relation to Medicare and Medicaid funding. Having engaged directly with state representatives, she has been a strong voice for maintaining adequate funding to ensure that essential services for older adults remain accessible.

“Cutting reimbursement for Medicaid would be devastating and leave many seniors without the support they need,” she warns, emphasizing the critical role that policy decisions play in the sustainability of senior care services.

At JKV, Stevens continues to innovate and push for the highest standards of care. Her leadership ensures that JKV adapts to the ever-changing needs of seniors, providing a full spectrum of care that includes Gardens West (assisted living), Seaside Cove (long-term care), The Woodlands (short- and long-term rehabilitation and skilled nursing), Home Health (in-home care), and Wellness Nursing (preventative care).

Through her tireless efforts, Stevens has shaped JKV into a community that not only prioritizes the health and well-being of its residents but also serves as a model for excellence in the senior care industry. Her work continues to inspire and empower those in the field, championing a future where older adults receive the dignity, resources, and care they deserve.  Jennifer is just one of the many experts who make the experience of living at JKV unparalleled.

 

More Than a Move—A Lifestyle Upgrade

For more than 50 years, JKV has set the standard for delivering an all-inclusive, resort-style lifestyle tailored to every stage of retirement. The community offers world-class fitness programs, state-of-the-art amenities, delicious and healthy dining, and countless activities designed to promote overall well-being. Residents enjoy peace of mind with unlimited access to on-campus healthcare services, 24/7 EMTs, and security. Plus, with no time or financial limits on long-term care benefits, a Life-Plan contract at JKV provides a fiscal safety net and an unparalleled quality of life.

We invite you to experience the vibrant community, world-class amenities, and remarkable residents, and exceptional team members who all make John Knox Village extraordinary.   Contact us today to learn more and schedule a visit.

The New Pelican front page, July 3, 2025

JKV in the News: “Scooter” Hayes, Resident Spotlight

If it can be done sitting down, she can do it.

Although John Knox Village resident Terry “Scooter” Hayes is confined to a wheelchair due to a neurological disorder, she remains more active than many people.

Hayes, 66, suffers from primary cerebellar degeneration, which has resulted in complete paralysis in her legs.  However, her slight, small-framed body seated on a wheelchair belies what she’s been able to accomplish despite her physical limitations.  At age 63, she competed on the U.S. Wheelchair Fencing team at the 2020 Paralympics Games in Tokyo.  She was the oldest member of the team, having to compete against others as young as teens.

 

Scooter Hayes U.S. Wheelchair Fencing team headshot

“Scooter” Hayes, Paralympian, U.S. Wheelchair Fencing Team

 

 

When confronted with the reality of the mobility challenges she’d be facing with her medical condition,  she told her doctors, “I’m not gonna live like that.  I’m gonna live.”

Read the full story here.

 

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.

McKnights Senior Living: From Tragedy, a Chance for Education

The death of Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa was a heartbreaking reminder that aging at home can come with unforeseen challenges.

At age 95, beloved actor Gene Hackman was aging at home with his 65-year old wife, Betsy Arakawa as his caretaker.  When Betsy fell ill from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, she passed in their home, leaving Gene without a caretaker which led to his demise days later.

What happened to Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa was devastating and tragic, and it’s an example of what can go wrong when older adults choose to age in place.

As a guest columnist for McKnights Senior Living, Kim Ali, Vice President of Sales & Marketing at John Knox Village of Florida hopes that education about life-plan communities as an option for seniors, in light of this tragedy, may prevent this from happening to others.

Read the full story here.

 

John Knox Village VP of Sales & Marketing Kim Ali

VP of Sales & Marketing, Kim Ali

 

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 visit.

GAZETTE – June/July 2025

John Knox Village Gazette - June/July 2025 - Front page

READ THE FULL EDITION HERE!

 

 

Move-In Manager Phyllis discusses design options with two residents, Jackie and Dave while standing in the Design Center

Meet the Experts at JKV: Making Moves Easy: How Phyllis Juber Ensures Seamless Transitions

Whether it’s just around the block or across the country, moving can often be a stressful experience. Transitioning from a long-time house to a new community can be overwhelming. However, new residents to John Knox Village (JKV) in Pompano Beach, Florida, find this move refreshingly smooth. How is that possible? It’s all thanks to our dedicated Move-In Manager, Phyllis Juber, who brings a wealth of expertise to ensure a seamless transition from their old house to their new villa or apartment home at JKV.

Personalized Support Every Step of the Way

Phyllis personally meets with each new resident to understand their unique needs—whether it’s downsizing, packing, handling valuables, or making home upgrades before they move in. She coordinates with trusted vendors, oversees renovation work orders, and ensures new homes are move-in ready, complete with updated flooring, appliances, and any requested improvements.

On move-in day, Phyllis is hands-on, managing logistics, answering last-minute questions, and even providing lunch to make the experience as comfortable as possible.

A Reputation for Excellence

“Phyllis makes the process seamless,” says Kim Ali, Vice President of Sales & Marketing. “She’s a trusted resource, turning a stressful experience into an enjoyable one.”

With 12 years of dedicated service at the internationally-award-winning Life Plan Continuing Care Retirement Community, Phyllis quickly advanced from a Marketing Assistant to her current role due to her strong work ethic and attention to detail.

Prior to JKV, she spent 25 years in Sales and Marketing at an international manufacturing company, where she honed her expertise in vendor coordination, event planning, and marketing strategy—skills that now benefit every new JKV resident she assists.

Resident Testimonials: The Phyllis Difference

Residents Leland and Linda B. share their experience:

“Phyllis worked very hard for us and provided everything exactly as she promised.  As we left our 4,000 sq ft. home for our new Heritage apartment, we found the adjustment unexpectedly easy.  Phyllis became a friend whom we enjoyed working with so very much.  She has the skills to meet your needs and worked tirelessly to make our transition effortless.”

Resident Clark R. shares his experience:

“Kudos to Phyllis Juber! I had the pleasure of working with Phyllis TWICE! My first experience was moving to Cassels Tower in 2020. She helped facilitate my move—from the selection of the house movers to the day the last box was unpacked. She was patient and kind, answering all my questions. She could not have made it any easier! My second move at JKV to Westlake took place just a year ago. Many thanks to Phyllis for making everything look so easy!”

Sherri K., a resident of Village Towers, echoes this sentiment:

“Phyllis holds your hand throughout the move-in process. She has a calming effect, always positive and ready to do whatever is necessary to help. She became my friend and troubleshooter even after my move, and she’s just fantastic.”

More Than a Move—A Lifestyle Upgrade

For more than 50 years, JKV has set the standard for delivering an all-inclusive, resort-style lifestyle tailored to every stage of retirement. The community offers world-class fitness programs, state-of-the-art amenities, delicious and healthy dining, and countless activities designed to promote overall well-being. Residents enjoy peace of mind with unlimited access to on-campus healthcare services, 24/7 EMTs, and security. Plus, with no time or financial limits on long-term care benefits, a Life-Plan contract at JKV provides a fiscal safety net and an unparalleled quality of life.

Ready to Make Your Move?

At JKV, your transition to a new chapter doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With Phyllis Juber’s expert guidance, you can experience a stress-free move and start enjoying all that JKV has to offer right away.  Phyllis is just one of the many experts who make the experience of living at JKV unparalleled.

Your new adventure awaits!

We invite you to experience the vibrant community, world-class amenities, and remarkable residents, and exceptional team members who all make John Knox Village extraordinary.   Contact us today to learn more and schedule a visit.

JKV in the News: At the Apex: ‘Best in Wellness’ Senior Living Communities

John Knox Village of Pompano Beach, Florida, proudly announces being awarded a 2023 ICAA NuStep Pinnacle and Beacon Award for “Best in Wellness”.  The “Best in Wellness” awards shine a light on senior living communities that lead the way in a comprehensive and evolving approach to wellness that enhances the lives of residents and employees.

Although the Journal on Active Aging previously announced the names of 2023’s winners, they are being featured again as part of the International Council on Active Aging (ICAA) published series, highlighting the ICAA NuStep Beacon and Pinnacle Awards’ winning communities.

ICAA awards 25 senior living communities each year with their NuStep Beacon award, recognizing senior living communities that lead the industry in making wellness an integral part of community life. With only the Top 5 receiving the prestige of the Pinnacle award, John Knox Village of Florida is proud to be recognized as one of them.

 

 

Front page of article featuring 'Best in Wellness' Senior Living Communities award winners

 

 

Read the full article here!

 

 

GAZETTE – April/May 2025

READ THE FULL EDITION HERE!

 

 

Fitness Instructor Erik Nenortas stands poolside teaching water aerobics to seniors in the pool

Meet the Experts at JKV: Fitness Manager Erik Nenortas Helps Residents Achieve Their Personal Best

John Knox Village of Florida, Inc. (JKV), an internationally award-winning Life-Plan Continuing Care Retirement Community in sunny Pompano Beach, Florida, is renowned for its innovative wellness and life enrichment for all residents.

Fitness Manager Erik Nenortas, a 28-year employee, is a fitness professional and Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) who leads the Best-In-Class team of licensed professionals, full-time trainers, and class instructors who teach throughout JKV’s 70-acre campus.

Erik is responsible for all fitness staffing, gym equipment, and class implementation. JKV currently has 47 fitness classes per week. Individual personal training and classes are held at the Fitness Studio, Aquatic Complex, Village Centre, Cassels Tower, Heritage Tower, and Village Towers apartment building party rooms. There are many classes to choose from including aerobics, strength & balance, aquatic fitness, karate, Tai Chi, Pilates, yoga, pickleball, meditation, and Parkinson’s Wellness Recovery.

Erik states, “Do your very best to help others succeed in life! By believing in those words, I have based my education and career on making sure I engage in work that assists others to improve both physically and cognitively. Working at John Knox Village for the past 28 years has enabled me to assist residents by promoting various specialized programs to help improve their spiritual, social, physical, emotional, and cognitive well-being.”

According to Gail Sutton-Pauling, Vice President of Hospitality at JKV, “Erik is truly in tune with our residents. He has an incredible knack for understanding their needs and desires, and he consistently implements programs and activities that resonate with them. His dedication and insight make a significant positive impact on the lives of our residents every day.”

Erik Nenortas, Fitness Manager at John Knox Village

Erik Nenortas, Fitness Manager at John Knox Village

Erik earned his Bachelor of Science in Recreation Therapy from the University of Florida in 1996. For 20 years, he dedicated himself to enhancing the well-being of residents at JKV through structured activity programming. Working closely with individuals of varying cognitive abilities, he embraced each challenge as an opportunity to foster meaningful connections and help residents maintain their functional abilities.

In 2009, Erik expanded his expertise by earning his Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) and Group Fitness Instructor certifications from the World Fitness Association. His passion for health and wellness led him to transition from Recreational Therapy to the JKV Fitness Team in 2017. Over the years, he continued to advance his skills, earning additional certifications, including AEA Aquatic Fitness Instructor, PWR! Moves Teacher, Group Meditation Certification, and National Academy of Sports Medicine Personal Trainer Certification.

In May 2024, Erik was promoted to Fitness Manager at JKV, where he now leads a talented team dedicated to helping residents achieve their fitness goals. His approach to his career is rooted in positivity, guided by the philosophy, “Let the beauty of what you love be what you do.”

Reflecting on his journey, Erik shares, “I am most proud of managing two departments — first, assisting residents socially and cognitively in Recreational Therapy, and now, as Fitness Manager. I love working with my team and supporting residents at every skill level.”

We invite you to learn more and experience our breathtaking campus, astounding amenities, remarkable residents and exceptional team members like Erik who all make JKV extraordinary.  Contact us today to learn more and schedule a visit.