By David Weidert
Executive Director, MonteCedro
In my role as executive director for MonteCedro, part of the ECS family of communities for active seniors, I have the privilege of witnessing every day the inspiring lives led by a group of extraordinary individuals. The people who call our community home are the definitive examples of the phrase “life is for living.”
As an organization, ECS is soon to be celebrating 100 years of providing exceptional communities and services for seniors in Southern California. Over that time, we have come to understand some simple yet profound truths about the interconnection between health, beauty and fitness.
At MonteCedro, the foundation of a life well lived is based on proactive wellness and life-long learning, what we call Creative Living. How we feel is how we do, and vice versa. Our farm-to-table fresh dining, our wonderful group of skilled and dedicated team members, and our incredible range of classes, activities, events, and excursions enable our residents to thrive and grow – physically, mentally, and spiritually. For more information, link to: ecsforseniors.org/montecedro/academy.
It is my pleasure to share some of their stories with you here.
Ralph Perry, 86 years young, is an incredible example of someone who continues to live an active lifestyle. At age 70, Ralph summited Mount Kilimanjaro and at age 73 he reached the base camp of Mount Everest. At MonteCedro, Ralph takes advantage of our location in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains. Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, he hikes 2.5 miles to the summit of Echo Mountain. The trailhead begins just a few minutes from our community and ascends 1,700 feet to a view that Ralph says is worthy of the effort. “The secret to staying healthy is to keep moving.”
Hugh and Marleen Scheffy have called MonteCedro home since 2017. They love the lifestyle and particularly appreciate the gym facilities available to residents. “We exercise six days a week,” Hugh says. They enjoy weight and aerobic training and participate in flexibility and balance classes.
“Cesar is the fitness trainer here,” says Marleen. “He is fabulous, and so motivating.”
They also appreciate the variety of dining options. “The menu changes daily and Chef James Hsieh and his team are amazing,” Hugh says. “Everything is fresh and absolutely delicious.”
Food and exercise are only part of the healthy living equation. Staying active mentally and emotionally is vital. Marleen is passionate about art and is the current chair of the Resident Art Committee. Over the years, they have curated a collection of more than 500 works that are on display in the public and common areas of the community, for all to enjoy. She and her committee peers are examples of “resident led, staff supported” community philosophy.
Ralph, Hugh and Marleen are just three of the people that make MonteCedro such a vibrant community. They remind all of us that while aging is a part of life, how we choose to live can make all the difference.
About Us
Founded on four commitments — choice, creativity, confidence and connection — MonteCedro provides maintenance-free, resort-style, continuing care retirement community living in Altadena.
ECS. Celebrating 100 years. Proudly nonprofit. Please visit montecedro.org to learn more.
