Exclusive Events for Priority List Members

"If you're researching your retirement living options, one of the best ways to learn more is through our priority list program," says Brian Cassidy, sales director at Lantern Hill, an Erickson Senior Living community in New Providence, N.J.

Priority list members gain right of first refusal on desired apartment homes, exclusive invites to informational and social events, and access to the community's amenities--even before moving in. 

"When you join Lantern Hill's priority list, you can come take a fitness class or attend a lecture series. And if there are any activities here that interest you, we can arrange for you to join a club meeting," Cassidy explains. "It really is a great way to 'try before you buy!'"

The Tribune recently spoke with Cassidy to learn more about the program's benefits:

Q: What kind of special events happen at the community?

A: Lantern Hill hosts several events just for priority list members, so they can tour the campus and have a chance to socialize. Some of the events we host throughout the year include the Kentucky Derby Happy Hour; Paint and Sip; Champagne and Chocolate; and a popular end-of-summer picnic, complete with bocce, barbecue, and live music from a popular local band.

These events are an opportunity for you to meet your future neighbors so that when you move in, you already have a head start on making friends. Some people joined the priority list before we even opened, and they love attending events and activities because they want to be well-versed in all that Lantern Hill has to offer before they move in.

Q: Do current residents also attend these functions?

A: Yes! Priority list members love meeting each other, but they also really appreciate talking with current residents--they hear firsthand what it's like to live at Lantern Hill. Our Resident Services team also invites priority list members to resident events, so they get to experience community life from that perspective as well.

Q: Why does Lantern Hill host these events?

A: Lantern Hill has such a vibrant lifestyle, and we want everyone to get a chance to experience it! Visiting campus is a great way to do that.

We've helped hundreds of retirees transition to Lantern Hill, and we've found that those who already spent time here--through the priority list--really hit the ground running once they moved in. And meeting others who have the same interests or who are in the same place in their lives makes you feel at home. 

We also host some educational sessions on topics that people have told us they're interested in, such as real estate, finance, and health care. We want prospective residents to know that there are resources available to them. 

Q: You mentioned clubs. What kind of clubs do you have?

A: Whether you enjoy reading, gardening, art, knitting, or current events, we have a club for you! There are also groups for those who play bridge, mah-jongg, and pickleball. Because many residents used to work at Bell Labs, they formed a Bell Labs social group.

If you don't see your hobby reflected in our list of clubs, our Resident Services team is more than willing to help you start one. This is just one of many ways to meet others with similar interests at Lantern Hill.

In fact, we are looking to plan an expo that showcases all the different resident-run clubs so priority list members can check out all of their options in one place. 

Q: Dining is always an important factor when choosing a senior living community. Can priority list members sample the cuisine before moving in?

A: Absolutely. We are proud to feature the Signature Dining program, which emphasizes preparing fresh, made-to-order meals that focus on local flavors. Residents love the fresh takes on classic dishes. 

Enjoying a meal in one of our eight unique restaurants is a great way to sample both our excellent cuisine and the community's social atmosphere. If priority members like, we can seat them with current residents--another opportunity to hear firsthand what life is like at Lantern Hill.

Q: How do priority list members stay informed on events at Lantern Hill?

A: We communicate regularly with priority list members, letting them know about upcoming events and other activities planned exclusively for them. However, we also invite them to enjoy events that current residents have planned, like trips to hear the New Jersey Symphony or see the cherry blossoms in Newark. 

There's so much to do in this area, and we want priority list members to experience everything along with us!

To learn more about senior living at Lantern Hill, request your free brochure to get the scoop on amenities, floor plans, and so much more.