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Touchmark Overview

“ ... We need to think of these folks as doing more than denture commercials,” said Marge Coalman, vice president of wellness and programs with Touchmark, a developer of retirement communities in eight states and Canada. “That’s just not where it’s at ... People are living longer, being more mobile,” said Coalman. “They’re retiring so they don’t have to do lawn maintenance and have more time to do things that are fun. ... ”

—From an article in U Magazine, Bend, Oregon,
discussing the new generation of grandparents

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Awards & Recognition

Touchmark’s vision—and work—have been recognized by others.

Touchmark—Two Touchmark programs have received national awards:
- The Health Promotion Institute—a part of the National Council on Aging—in 2008 presented Touchmark with a Best Practice award for Let Your Spirit Soar, a component of Touchmark’s Life Enrichment/Wellness program Touchmark was one of three organizations selected from more than 100 nominations throughout the United States. Let Your Spirit Soar is designed to showcase the strengths, talents, and skills of Touchmark residents and staff in the area of lifelong learning and creativity. Several elements make it unique and innovative. In addition to the resident and staff recognition, the program supports the Touchmark Foundation, builds relationships with individuals and institutions from the broader community and communicates the vibrancy of today’s older adults.
- Touchmark was one of 10 national programs identified in 2007 by the Falls-Free Coalition for creative programs and practices in home assessment and modification that can reduce home hazards. Touchmark’s Fall Reduction and Awareness Program was the only one selected in any state where Touchmark is located. The essence of the program is the partnership created with community residents to enhance balance and mobility, support independence, and thus reduce the risk of falls.
Touchmark at Meadow Lake Village in Meridian/Boise Idaho is the only development in the Treasure Valley to receive these awards:
- The Gold Nugget Award for Best Retirement Community. The Gold Nuggets are the oldest and largest program of its kind, honoring creative achievements in architectural design and land-use planning.
- Gold Achievement Award from the National Association of Home Builders for Active Adult Clubhouses—Large. This award recognized the Grand Lodge, which features rich wood beams, natural colors reflecting the outdoors, expansive windows, and a wide array of amenities, such as restaurant-style dining, a fitness center, ballroom, and computer lab.
Touchmark at Mt. Bachelor Village retirement community in Bend Oregon has received two National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) awards:
- In 2009, Touchmark at Mt. Bachelor Village’s Cliff Lodge and Terrace Lodge were named Best Independent Living Community and received a gold award (the highest given) at the Best of 50+ Housing Awards. Jurors stated, “This is not only a beautiful example of regional architecture but a great community ... All aspects of the project are of high quality and finish with units maximizing views and common areas maximizing function.”
- In 2005, this Bend community received the platinum award—the highest recognition—in “for-sale condominiums.” Jurors’ comments were: “The jury would like to live here! Fantastic contrast of heavy timber framing and extensive use of glass and metal. The use of stone and wood ties the building to its sloping site. The meandering stream further enhances the site. This project proves that high density development can be done with sensitivity and environmental compatibility.”
Waterford at All Saints in Sioux Falls South Dakota—2002 recipient of a Gold Achievement Award for renovation from the National Association of Home Builders Seniors Housing Council.