With 35 Clubs and Counting, the Sky's the Limit at Woodleigh Chase

Even though she just recently moved to Woodleigh Chase, an Erickson Senior Living community in Fairfax, Va., Betty Nevin's calendar is already overflowing with activities. 

"I moved in on a Monday, attended a chair yoga class on Friday, and I've been a regular ever since," says Betty, who also plays rummikub and canasta. She even started a Scrabble group!

From the moment Woodleigh Chase opened its doors in March, residents like Betty have embraced their worry-free lifestyle by exploring their passions, discovering new interests, and fostering meaningful connections.   

"It's been so easy to meet people and make new friends. There is a group of us who meet on Thursday evenings to knit, crochet, and needlepoint. We learn from each other and share experiences," says Betty. 

Worry-free living

Without the hassles of homeownership, like upkeep and repairs, residents have more free time to participate in activities and take advantage of amenities. 

While Betty, who moved from Roanoke, Va., happily waved goodbye to lawn care, she still wanted to keep her green thumb. 

"This summer, I started a garden for the first time and grew tomatoes, basil, and marigolds. It's really been a lot of fun!" she says. 

She's also enjoyed the resort-style amenities, including three restaurants, an all-season pool and fitness center, art studio, theater, and outdoor bocce courts. And the weekly calendar of events is packed with opportunities for movies, yoga, pickleball, and tai chi--just to name a few. 

Getting involved

Resident Services Manager Renee Budd notes that the large number of people moving to Woodleigh Chase has generated lots of fresh ideas for clubs and groups, including a Family History Group, a Short Story Discussion Group, and a Women's Wine Wednesday social group. 

"Woodleigh Chase is a vibrant community," says Budd. "Our residents have lots of gifts and talents and are eager to raise their hand and get involved. In less than a year, we already have 35 resident-run groups and clubs."

And if Woodleigh Chase doesn't already have a club to match your interest, it's easy to start your own! 

"Our residents are always looking to explore new ideas and try new things. We are here to help facilitate whatever they need to accomplish those goals and help them succeed," says Budd.

A social atmosphere

Before moving to Woodleigh Chase from West Springfield, Va., Sal Bosco was part of a neighborhood men's social club. So, after settling into his apartment home, he formed the Woodleigh Chase Men's Coffee Club, which meets on Wednesday mornings.   

"It's an informal group of about 25 of us who get together and just talk and drink coffee," says Sal. "It's fun, being part of a new community and watching all of the groups form and the community take shape."

Sal also uses the on-site fitness center daily and participates in a Zoomer Bootcamp, a fun group workout with bursts of activity alternated with intervals of lighter activity.

"I really enjoy it. I also joined a bridge club and my wife plays canasta," says Sal. 

"When you move to Woodleigh Chase, it's a new chapter," says Budd. 

"You are moving to a vibrant community with lots of things to do and new friendships to make. I recently had a resident tell me that her granddaughter couldn't believe that her grandmother's social calendar was busier than hers!" 

Lots to do

Betty is just as busy, making friends and enjoying everything Woodleigh Chase has to offer. 

"My kids are happy I moved here," says Betty. "I was a caregiver and I promised my family they wouldn't have to worry about me. That was a big draw for me. They know I am safe and enjoying life!" 

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