Taking root: Lake Bonavista Village celebrates 25 years

In 2001, Lake Bonavista Village opened its doors for the first time, offering older adults a new place to call home in one of Calgary’s most established neighbourhoods. Set across eight acres, with manicured walking paths, an inviting courtyard, and well-appointed amenities like the indoor heated swimming pool and the central hub dubbed “Main Street” by residents, the Village quickly earned a reputation as one of Calgary’s most sought-after senior living communities, setting a high bar for the lifestyle, amenities, and experience residents could expect.

Twenty-five years later, Lake Bonavista Village has grown and blossomed into a vibrant community filled with connection, companionship, and character. While the spaces and amenities have evolved over the years, what truly makes the Village special has remained the same: the people who call it home.

To mark this milestone, residents and team members donned their finest and gathered to celebrate 25 years of Lake Bonavista Village. The team pulled out all the stops to create a festive atmosphere, filling the evening with laughter, memories, and connection as residents and friends came together to celebrate the community they’ve helped shape.

Deep roots and new beginnings

Praveen Joshi, Executive Director at Lake Bonavista Village, raised a glass to welcome residents to the festivities. “The team and the residents are the heart of this community,” says Praveen. “It’s an honour to be part of this celebration. Each member of our community has contributed so much to making Lake Bonavista Village what it is today, and it’s wonderful to take a moment to celebrate the connections and memories that make this place so special.”

“Watching residents come out of their shell and become a part of the community is one of my favourite parts of the job,” says Nina Townley, Life Enrichment Manager, “And tonight having everyone come together is the highlight of an already amazing year.”

“It’s really easy to be dazzled by the beautiful surroundings and amenities that Lake Bonavista Village has to offer,” says Shannon Wolfe, Sales and Marketing Assistant. “But really, the heart of this community is the people who are here each day. That’s what makes this more than just a place to live.” Shannon continues, “It truly feels like a village, where people get to know one another and go out of their way to support and care for their fellow residents and team members.”

Georgia, a resident at Lake Bonavista Village, has a connection to the community that spans two generations. Sixteen years ago, she stayed at the Village with her parents, beginning a relationship that continued long after her family’s time there. She remained connected through volunteering and spending time with residents, returning as a resident herself two years ago.

“It’s been an amazing journey,” says Georgia. “The community has changed so much in the 16 years I’ve been a part of it, but the most important things haven’t changed at all. The relationships people form here are really special, and that’s what brought me back.”

Today, Georgia thrives at Lake Bonavista Village, where she sees the community as an extension of her own family. She continues to build connections, stay involved, and appreciate the spirit that makes the Village such a special place to call home.

“I see the connections that residents and team members create each day, and I think that’s what makes this community so special. It’s wonderful to see people thrive while they’re here, and I feel fortunate to be part of something that means so much to so many people.”

“When United was opening our Fish Creek community in 2015, we looked to Lake Bonavista Village for inspiration,” says Kim O’Brien, President & CEO of United. “It’s really special for us to now have the community as part of the United family. As Lake Bonavista Village celebrates 25 years offering an exceptional living experience for older adults, we continue to be inspired by the residents and team members who make this community so wonderful.”

While the anniversary celebration may have come and gone, the connections, friendships and sense of community that make Lake Bonavista Village so vibrant continue every day. Be sure to check out our programming calendar or book a tour and come experience the Village for yourself!