Latest News

Contract with Maricopa County will fund infrastructure improvements, financial assistance for first-time homebuyers


PHOENIX, Ariz. (June 20, 2022) – At a time when housing is increasingly difficult to find across
Arizona, and many first-time homebuyers are priced out of the market, FSL is pleased to
announce a contract with Maricopa County that will allow construction to begin on the Casa del
Sol subdivision in Wickenburg.


“Affordable homeownership benefits families by offering stability without taking over such a large portion of their budget that they can’t afford other necessities,” said Jacqueline Edwards,
director for the Maricopa County Human Services Department. “The County’s contract with FSL
will allow for the dream of affordable homeownership to become a reality for many families.”


The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds awarded by the county will fund infrastructure
improvements and financial assistance, reserved specifically for first-time homebuyers earning
less than 80% of the area median income.


“FSL is grateful for the support of the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors,” said Tami
Bohannon, president and CEO of FSL. “June is National Homeownership Month, and the timing
of this award could not have come at a better time. First-time homebuyers have struggled to get
contracts accepted due to competition against investors.  The ARPA funds will allow us to level
the playing field and reserve homes for owner-occupants who will be invested in the
community.”


With this project, FSL will be able to provide 12 homebuyers with $15,000 in down payment and
closing cost assistance. That money will be layered with another $25,000 in assistance from
other funding sources.


The Casa del Sol subdivision is a welcome and much-needed addition to the Town of
Wickenburg.


“Housing is a priority,” said Deputy Town Manager Tim Suan. “We seek to empower all
community partners in the effort to provide housing for all existing and future residents.”


For more information or to apply for the program, go to www.fsl.org/DoIQualify.


About FSL:
FSL is a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to provide home and community-based
services and to develop energy-efficient, affordable housing to promote health, independence
and dignity for all. With a long history of helping Arizona families with issues including health,
hunger, aging, illness, loneliness and substandard housing, FSL is committed to improving the
quality of life for all Arizonans. To learn more about FSL programs and services, visit fsl.org.

PHOENIX, Ariz. (Dec. 1, 2020) – FSL has funds from the City of Peoria, City of Phoenix, and Maricopa County Human Services Department to help seniors, families, and people with disabilities. The funds were made available through Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act and can be used to help residents financially impacted by COVID-19. All money needs to be allocated by Dec. 31, 2020.

City of Peoria Assistance:
City of Peoria residents can qualify for up to $1,500 in assistance with utility bills and up to $4,500 in assistance with rent or mortgage bills. Contact our team in the Community Action Program office to see if you qualify: 623-979-3911 ext. 405.

City of Phoenix Assistance:
FSL Single Family Real Estate team has received funding from the City of Phoenix to assist households at and below 80% AMI that have been affected by COVID-19 with home repairs to help them safely shelter in place. The funds were made available from the CARES Act Shelter in Place Owner-Occupied Housing Rehab Program.
Eligible projects may include but are not limited to replacement/repair of heating and cooling systems, roofs, plumbing systems, electric systems, accessibility modifications, or security issues such as broken windows or doors.
To qualify for assistance the applicant must:
• Own or occupy their home and be current on mortgages, taxes, and insurance
• Have permanent legal residency
• Be able to illustrate their household has been impacted by COVID-19
• Request repairs that will enable household members to safely shelter in place
• Have a household income at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI)
For additional information or to apply for assistance, please contact FSL Real Estate Services by emailing CareActOOR@fsl.org or calling 602-297-1855.
Maricopa County Assistance:
The Maricopa County Human Services Department funds will help residents with repairs and replacements related to heating and cooling their homes. To be eligible you must be a senior, a family with children, or individuals with disabilities.

The Housing and Community Development Division provides emergency HVAC assistance to Maricopa County homeowners living outside the cities of Mesa and Phoenix. If you live in Mesa or Phoenix, please click on the links below to learn about home weatherization programs in your area.
• Mesa: MesaCAN
• Phoenix: City of Phoenix Neighborhood Services Department

To apply for County COVID Emergency Heating/Cooling Repair/Replace Assistance, please visit https://www.maricopa.gov/5587/COVID-Emergency-HVAC-Assistance.

To apply, visit: https://www.surveygizmo.com/s3/5734199/County-COVID-Emergency-Heating-Cooling-Repair-Replace.

FSL is also still accepting calls for HEAF (APS and SW Gas bill assistance). City of Phoenix residents can call 602-285-0505 ext. 106 to find out if they qualify.

About FSL:
FSL is a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to provide home and community-based services and to develop energy-efficient, affordable housing to promote health, independence, and dignity for all. With a long history of helping Arizona families with issues including health, hunger, aging, illness, loneliness, and substandard housing, FSL is committed to improving the quality of life for all Arizonans. To learn more about FSL programs and services or make a donation, visit www.fsl.org.

PHOENIX, Ariz. (Oct. 19, 2020) – FSL (Foundation for Senior Living) needs non-perishable foods, cleaning, and personal hygiene items for its pantries throughout Arizona. The nonprofit is preparing for an influx in requests this holiday season due to COVID-19.

Donations can be made through their Amazon wish list or they are accepting donations at their corporate office, located at 1201 E. Thomas Road in Phoenix. The office is open Monday-Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and donations can be made while social distancing.

“We have food pantries throughout Maricopa County and our rural housing communities,” said Carolyn Campbell, M.P.A., director of housing. “Since the pandemic, we have been doing meal deliveries to seniors and adults with disabilities. Last year, through our network of community food pantries, we distributed over 460,000 pounds of non-perishable foods and other pantry items. We’re expecting the high demand for this service to continue through the holiday season.”
FSL’s food pantries distribute food to local community members in need. These food pantries are supported by other agencies, as well as, kind donations from businesses, civic organizations, and individuals. Cash donations may also be directed towards the food pantries, by visiting: www.fsl.org.
About FSL:
FSL is a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to provide home and community-based services and to develop energy-efficient, affordable housing to promote health, independence, and dignity for all. With a long history of helping Arizona families with issues including health, hunger, aging, illness, loneliness, and substandard housing, FSL is committed to improving the quality of life for all Arizonans. To learn more about FSL programs and services, visit fsl.org

PHOENIX, Ariz. (Aug. 10, 2020) – FSL has been awarded funding for their second affordable senior housing development in Flagstaff. The FSL Real Estate Services department is the developer and recipient of low-income housing tax credits and Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco grant funds. The project is slated to be completed in Fall 2022.

“We’re excited about the opportunity to bring more affordable living to Flagstaff,” said Steve Hastings, director of FSL Real Estate Services. “These awards make possible the construction of 60 one-bedroom and 10 two-bedroom apartments. These apartments will serve seniors 62 years old and older at 40%, 50%, and 60% of the Area Median Income. It will have amenities and services appropriate for seniors.”

The one-bedroom units will be approximately 700 square feet and the two-bedroom units will be 900 square feet. Green features include low water plumbing fixtures, Energy Star appliances, lighting fixtures, and mechanical equipment, low emissions of wood solids and finishing materials, and recycled materials in roofing and insulation. FSL will pay for all utilities. The multi-story building will include a lobby, administrative offices, and a community room with a kitchen.

FSL purchased the site in downtown Flagstaff at the corner of Cherry Avenue and Humphreys Street with enough land to construct two affordable projects, the recently awarded senior project and one other to be built in coming years. The site currently houses the San Francisco de Asis Catholic School which was shuttered in December 2016. The school will be demolished to accommodate this new housing development.

About FSL:
FSL is a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to provide home and community-based services and to develop energy-efficient, affordable housing to promote health, independence, and dignity for all. With a long history of helping Arizona families with issues including health, hunger, aging, illness, loneliness, and substandard housing, FSL is committed to improving the quality of life for all Arizonans. To learn more about FSL programs and services, visit fsl.org.

PHOENIX, Ariz. (July 6, 2020) –FSL (Foundation for Senior Living) and Wildfire (formerly Arizona Community Action Association) have entered into an agreement to help Phoenix residents who need assistance with their rent or mortgage and utility bills including electric, gas or City of Phoenix water.  These funds were allocated to City of Phoenix under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.  The Phoenix COVID-19 Program is offered through December 30, 2020 in an effort to mitigate the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We’re so appreciative of this opportunity to help those in need throughout our community,” said Tom Egan, president and CEO, FSL. “We know Phoenix residents are in need of assistance. If you have been financially impacted by COVID-19 and are struggling to keep up with your monthly payments, please call us to see if you qualify for assistance through this program.”

FSL also has other funds available for Maricopa County residents that need utility assistance and/or appliance repair/replacement. Please call FSL’s Care Design Program at 602-285-0505 ext. 180 or email carebydesign@fsl.org to discuss qualifications and eligibility requirements for these financial assistance programs.  To learn more about FSL’s programs or make a donation, visit us at www.fsl.org. 

About FSL:

FSL is a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to provide home and community-based services and to develop energy-efficient, affordable housing to promote health, independence and dignity for all. With a long history of helping Arizona families with issues including health, hunger, aging, illness, loneliness and substandard housing, FSL is committed to improving the quality of life for all Arizonans. To learn more about FSL programs and services, visit fsl.org

Plus 65 Tablets to Keep Seniors Connected During COVID-19

PHOENIX, Ariz. (May 29, 2020) – The AT&T Foundation recently donated $5,000 to FSL’s COVID-19 relief efforts, in addition, AT&T gave the nonprofit 65 tablets to allow FSL Adult Day Health Services (ADHS) and Assisted Group Living (AGL) clients to remain connected during COVID-19. The tablets will help FSL’s clients stay connected to loved ones and give them access to Televeda recreational classes and FSL’s YouTube cooking, exercise and art classes.

The monetary support will go to help COVID-19 relief funds. FSL has been providing food supplies and pantry staples to ensure home-bound seniors have the meals they need and emergency staffing to ensure medically necessary services are delivered uninterrupted.

“We have been committed to serving the most vulnerable and seniors with compromised immune systems during COVID-19,” said Tom Egan, president and CEO, FSL. “We couldn’t have done without the support of our community and corporate partners like AT&T and their Foundation. Our clients were so happy to receive new tablets.  For many individuals, it was the first time they had a new tablet in many years. It gives them access to virtual events until our programs can fully re-open.”

The AT&T Foundation donation was the first gift to FSL.

“AT&T believes we have a responsibility to our community during these challenging and uncertain times,” said Toni M. Broberg, president of AT&T Arizona. “AT&T is happy to partner with FSL to help seniors stay connected. In a time of isolation, having the ability to communicate with family and friends can make a huge difference in someone’s life.”

About AT&T

AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T) is a diversified, global leader in telecommunications, media and entertainment, and technology. It executes in the market under four operating units. WarnerMedia’s HBO, Turner and Warner Bros. divisions are world leaders in creating premium content, operate one of the world’s largest TV and film studios, and own a world-class library of entertainment. AT&T Communications provides more than 100 million U.S. consumers with entertainment and communications experiences across TV, mobile and broadband services. Plus, it serves nearly 3 million business customers with high-speed, highly secure connectivity and smart solutions. AT&T Latin America provides pay-TV services across 11 countries and territories in Latin America and the Caribbean, and is the fastest growing wireless provider in Mexico, serving consumers and businesses. Xandr provides marketers with innovative and relevant advertising solutions for consumers around premium video content and digital advertising through its AppNexus platform.

About FSL:

FSL is a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to provide home and community-based services and to develop energy-efficient, affordable housing to promote health, independence and dignity for all. With a long history of helping Arizona families with issues including health, hunger, aging, illness, loneliness and substandard housing, FSL is committed to improving the quality of life for all Arizonans. To learn more about FSL programs and services, visit fsl.org.

PHOENIX — Governor Doug Ducey announced today $300,000 in funding from the AZ Coronavirus Relief Fund has been allocated to organizations across the state that support senior citizens, the homebound and those who are medically fragile. The funding will support organizations that have provided much needed aid to vulnerable populations impacted by COVID-19, by assisting with grocery shopping, meal deliveries, transportation to medical appointments, emergency errands and social interaction during a time of physical distancing. 

“Arizona continues to focus on protecting public health, especially for those most at-risk like seniors and those medically vulnerable,” said Governor Ducey. “Volunteer and community organizations across the state are working day and night to provide support for those in their care through additional food deliveries, transportation and other services — and we’re proud to support their efforts. Thank you to everyone who has donated to the AZ Coronavirus Relief Fund so we can protect at-risk Arizonans, and to everyone who has stepped up to help others.” 

Recipients of the funding include: 

• Foundation for Senior Living (statewide)

• Benevilla 

• Aster Aging

“We are so appreciative of this generous donation,” said Tom Egan, President and CEO of Foundation for Senior Living. “Our team has been working diligently to shift many of our programs to meal and food bag deliveries to seniors and adults with chronic health issues or disabilities. So far, we have seen our expenses increase by 25 percent and we’re anticipating the community will continue to need help throughout the summer. This donation will help offset our expenses and allow us to serve those in need.  We are so grateful to Governor Ducey and the AZ Coronavirus Relief Fund!” 

“We believe we are strongest when we work together,” says Joanne Thomson, President and CEO of Benevilla. “The support from the AZ Coronavirus Relief Fund Now will help provide much needed services to the most vulnerable population in our community. Working together we are able to help seniors with grocery shopping, emergency errands and more, we are able to provide support and friendship to caregivers who might feel overwhelmed and alone and continue to support families in our community during this time.”

“The support that Aster Aging has received from the AZ Coronavirus Relief Fund is truly making the difference for vulnerable older adults in the East Valley,” said Deborah Schaus, CEO of Aster Aging. “Requests for Meals on Wheels and our other basic need services have continued to grow as we strive to keep seniors safe during the pandemic.”

The AZ Coronavirus Relief Fund was established by Governor Ducey as part of the Arizona Together Initiative to provide financial support to non-profit organizations serving Arizonans most in need statewide. The AZ Coronavirus Relief Fund has collected more than $8.2 million to date. Arizonans can visit ArizonaTogether.org to learn more, donate and find volunteer opportunities.

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FSL (Foundation for Senior Living) is pleased to announce BOK Financial Arizona has donated $50,000 to the nonprofit’s COVID-19 relief efforts. Once the stay-at-home order went into effect, FSL shifted many programs to serve seniors and adults with disabilities at home instead of at a senior center or Adult Day Health Center. Their expenses went up by at least 25 percent to meet the demand. 

“When we heard the need for FSL’s programs had dramatically increased, we wanted to step in and help,” said Jacki Grainger, vice president, Community Relations at BOK Financial Arizona. “They have seen a 56 percent increase in meals delivered to Arizona homebound seniors. We’re proud to partner with FSL to help seniors get access to food and necessities.”

In addition to home-delivered meals, FSL has delivered 188 bags of groceries to 71 households in need.  They are offering this program to anyone over the age of 60 or with a disability or chronic health condition.

Ms. Merritt, a senior in Phoenix had been looking for help for weeks. She spent most of her week calling countless agencies, companies and nonprofits looking for assistance, only to find out no one could help. She was discouraged and stressed when she found FSL. After one call to FSL, she received four boxes loaded with food and toiletry supplies the very next day. She was so appreciative and shared that FSL was only the second face she had seen in weeks. 

While their senior centers in Peoria and Wickenburg remain closed, staff is still preparing more than 600 meals each day.  The meals are packaged for curbside pick-up or home delivery to seniors in need.  This program is seeing a 23 percent increase in demand during the pandemic.

“We are so appreciative of community partners like BOK Financial,” said Tom Egan, president and CEO of FSL. “They are providing much needed funding to ensure seniors who are highly vulnerable to contracting the virus can stay safe at home.”

To learn more about FSL’s programs or to donate, visit: www.fsl.org. FSL has a dedicated page for updates and support on COVID-19. 

About FSL:

FSL is a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to provide home and community-based services and to develop energy-efficient, affordable housing to promote health, independence and dignity for all. With a long history of helping Arizona families with issues including health, hunger, aging, illness, loneliness and substandard housing, FSL is committed to improving the quality of life for all Arizonans. To learn more about FSL programs and services, visit fsl.org.

FSL (Foundation for Senior Living) has funds available for Maricopa County residents who need assistance with their utility bills and medical bills. In addition, they have been able to expand their food pantry to help anyoneover 60 years of age and those with a disability or chronic health condition. 

“We want the community to know, we’re here to help,” said Tom Egan, president and CEO, FSL. “Our team is working hard to ensure seniors and families are getting the assistance they need. We have two options for utility assistance for anyone who is having trouble making APS or SRP payments. Our food pantry is available to seniors who aren’t able to get out and grocery shop.”

Funds can be used towards utility bills, bus or Dial a Ride tickets if you need help getting to medical appointments or other urgent appointments, or even payment towards a medical bill. 

Maricopa County residents that need utility assistance (APS, SRP and Southwest Gas), appliance replacement and HVAC repair or replacement should call FSL’s Care Design Program at 602-285-0505 ext. 180 or email carebydesign@fsl.org to discuss qualifications. 

Northwest Valley residents (Peoria, Sun Cities, Waddell and Youngtown) can apply for utility assistance through the NW Valley Community Action office.  Funding is available for APS and SRP customers.  Contact 623-979-3911 ext. 401 or email jsalas@fsl.org to discuss qualifications.

To learn more about our programs or make a donation, visit us at www.fsl.org. FSL has a dedicated page for updates and support on COVID-19 at https://www.fsl.org/covid19/. 

About FSL:

FSL is a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to provide home and community-based services and to develop energy-efficient, affordable housing to promote health, independence and dignity for all. With a long history of helping Arizona families with issues including health, hunger, aging, illness, loneliness and substandard housing, FSL is committed to improving the quality of life for all Arizonans. To learn more about FSL programs and services, visit fsl.org.

FSL (Foundation for Senior Living) is pleased to announce Wells Fargo Bank has committed to help seniors during coronavirus.  The donation will fund food supplies and transportation costs to ensure home-bound seniors have the meals they need and deploy emergency staffing to ensure medically necessary services are delivered uninterrupted. 

“I am so moved by this incredible donation,” said Tom Egan, CEO of FSL. “We reached out to our community partners and told them that seniors are isolated, they are scared and they need food, supplies and they need to know that the community cares.  Wells Fargo has been a long-time supporter of FSL and today they showed our community they care about our seniors.  Our team is working quickly to bring meals and food boxes to those that need it most.” 

This donation is part of the $6.25 million in aid Wells Fargo announced earlier this month to support the domestic and global COVID-19 response.

To learn more about our programs or make a donation, visit us at www.fsl.org. FSL have a dedicated page for updates and support on COVID-19 at https://www.fsl.org/covid19/. 

About FSL:

FSL is a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to provide home and community-based services and to develop energy-efficient, affordable housing to promote health, independence and dignity for all. With a long history of helping Arizona families with issues including health, hunger, aging, illness, loneliness and substandard housing, FSL is committed to improving the quality of life for all Arizonans. To learn more about FSL programs and services, visit fsl.org.

Phoenix Suns Charities will Match Devin’s Donation to Support Valley-Area Non-Profits Helping the Most Vulnerable in our Community

PHOENIX – Given the unprecedented and constantly-evolving situation surrounding the effects of COVID-19 on our community and beyond, Devin Booker, in partnership with Phoenix Suns Charities, will raise money through livestreaming on Twitch to support non-profits that best serve the needs of the most vulnerable in the community. An avid gamer and NBA All-Star, Booker pledged $100,000 to tip off the giving campaign on Twitch and Phoenix Suns Charities will match that initial donation. Funds will benefit non-profits like the Arizona Food Bank Network, which is providing hunger-relief for children, families and seniors, the Foundation for Senior Living, which provides affordable housing, meals and caregiver support to seniors, and Banner Health Foundation to support community testing, including potential new approaches such as drive-through clinics. As the enormous impact of COVID-19 continues to evolve, Booker and the Phoenix Suns Charities Board of Directors will continue to coordinate with public health experts, local officials and other community partners to determine where support is needed most. 

  “With countless people around the globe turning to streaming to get their mind off things, I thought this was the perfect opportunity to bring people together, raise awareness and help those in need at the same time,” said Booker. “These are trying times that transcend basketball and I would like to call on everyone to be good teammates as we deal with this challenge together.”  

Additional donations can be made through Devin’s Twitch Channel: Twitch.tv/DBook

The new social giving campaign is an extension of Booker’s Starting Five initiative and adds to the bench of non-profits he has directly supported. Last year, Booker made an unprecedented $2.5 million dollar commitment to Phoenix Suns Charities by pledging to donate $500,000 annually for five years.  Through the Devin Booker Starting Five initiative, Special Olympics Arizona, Ability 360, Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, UMOM New Day Centers and Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center became the first recipients of the Starting Five grants last November and received $100,000 each to better the lives of children and families in Arizona.

The NBA has temporarily suspended its season in response to COVID-19 and Commissioner Adam Silver advised in his recent letter to all NBA fans that this hiatus will last at least 30 days and that the intent is to resume the season, if and when it becomes safe for all concerned.

Since its inception in 1988, Phoenix Suns Charities has distributed more than $32 million to local nonprofits and organizations in need and the entire Suns organization has embedded itself locally by supporting community efforts through hundreds of player appearances and thousands of volunteer hours by Suns players and staff.

Flexible and Unrestricted Donations are Needed

PHOENIX, Ariz. (March 16, 2020) – Foundation for Senior Living is committed to continuing to serve the most vulnerable and seniors with compromised immune systems during this uncertain time with COVID-19. As the situation continues to change, we want the community to know, we are expecting our expenses to increase significantly.

“At this time, flexible and unrestricted donations would be the most helpful,” said Tom Egan, president and CEO, FSL. “We know our food delivery programs to seniors are going to increase.  We also know essential health care services are going to be in demand.  We need the community’s help so we can continue to serve those who need it most.”

Your donations will:

• Fund food supplies and transportation costs to ensure home-bound seniors have the meals they need
• Deploy emergency staffing to ensure medically necessary services are delivered uninterrupted

To make a donation, visit us at www.fsl.org/donate.     

About FSL:

FSL is a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to provide home and community-based services and to develop energy-efficient, affordable housing to promote health, independence and dignity for all. With a long history of helping Arizona families with issues including health, hunger, aging, illness, loneliness and substandard housing, FSL is committed to improving the quality of life for all Arizonans. To learn more about FSL programs and services, visit fsl.org.

Wickenburg Community Services Center is hosting a grand opening at their new location on Feb. 8 from 3 to 6 p.m.  The new building is a partnership with FSL and is located at 466 W. Wickenburg Way.  The grand opening is free to attend and open to the public. 

“We’ve very excited about our new building that will house the CAP office, senior center, Freedom Express, a mobile food pantry,” said Patty Sickles, WCSC president. “It’s 12,500 square feet, which will double our size from the old building.  It features a new dining room, game room, classrooms, computers.  We’re pleased to continue our partnership with FSL and look forward to serving the community together.”  

FSL operates community action programs (CAP) from the Wickenburg Community Service Center.  They can help individuals and families out of crisis or those facing an unplanned emergency. These case management services are usually meant for the short term to prevent hard working individuals from falling through the cracks.  They offer support through their Freedom Express transportation program, community food bank, emergency clothing, weatherization for homes, deposits for utilities or utility assistance, help with evictions and referrals for community help. 

“We have partnered with Wickenburg Community Services for many years and know the new building will provide much needed services to local residents,” said Tom Egan, president & CEO of FSL.  “Our team is looking forward to assisting and being a resource to those in need.”

About FSL (Foundation for Senior Living)

FSL is a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to provide home and community-based services and to develop energy-efficient, affordable housing to promote health, independence and dignity for all. With a long history of helping Arizona families with issues including health, hunger, aging, illness, loneliness and substandard housing, FSL is committed to improving the quality of life for all Arizonans. To learn more about FSL programs and services, visit fsl.org.

Partnership safely transports seniors to adult day centers for therapy, recreation, and socialization

Phoenix, Arizona – Envoy America, a Phoenix-based company that offers transportation plus assistance and companionship services for seniors, the infirm and disabled, announced a new partnership with the Foundation for Senior Living (FSL), a non-profit provider of home and community-based health services and developer of affordable energy-efficient housing. Through this partnership, Envoy America will safely and securely transport Phoenix-area seniors to and from FSL’s Adult Day Health Services Centers to offer relief for their at-home caregivers and better serve FSL’s patients and clients.

After completing a successful pilot program, Envoy America and FSL are officially rolling out their partnership in full at FSL’s Phoenix location to transport seniors to and from the Center on a regular basis. Plans are in the works to expand the partnership to FSL’s Glendale and Tempe locations.

“Caregiving is a difficult and all-encompassing role, and sometimes a respite is required in order to operate as the best caregiver you can be,” said Tom Egan, President and CEO of FSL. “That’s been the goal with our Adult Day Centers, but a challenge we’ve encountered is reliable transportation of the senior to our Centers. Partnering with Envoy America, a door-to-door service rather than a curb-to-curb service, has been a win-win solution for everyone involved.”

At FSL’s Adult Day Health Services Centers, local seniors can benefit from meaningful activities, socialization, and assistance during the day. As FSL has continued to expand its offerings and programs, organization leaders discovered that there was an opportunity to better serve their clients while continuing to offer benefits to caregivers by partnering with Envoy America to transport seniors to their Day Centers with greater care and efficiency. Envoy America’s Driver Companions not only drive their clients to and from their destination, but they also provide assistance at all points along the journey.

Caregivers can now book rides and appointments for FSL’s Adult Day Center in Phoenix by contacting FSL at 602-285-1800.

“I know firsthand from helping my own aging parents that when a senior loses the ability to drive, family members become their caregivers to escort them to where they need to go on a daily basis,” said K. C. Kanaan, Co-Founder and CEO of Envoy America. “We are thrilled to be able to partner with FSL to help seniors get the transportation and care that they need while also acting as a resource to their caregivers.”

Envoy America Driver Companions have been regularly transporting FSL patients and clients to the Adult Day Center in Phoenix with great success, completing over 100 trips with 18 seniors in the initial pilot program. Driver Companions assist the client from the home and into the car and then from the car to the Adult Day Center to ensure that the client is safe and comfortable throughout the duration of the trip. Envoy America Driver Companions are also specifically trained to work with seniors living with dementia to ensure that they can receive safe and reliable service. Those interested in applying to be a Driver Companion and make a difference in the lives of Valley seniors can visit https://envoyamerica.com.

FSL Adult Day Health Services Centers:

• Phoenix – 3620 North 4th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85013
• Glendale – 6010 West Northern Ave, #880, Glendale, AZ 85301
• Tempe – 2234 East Maryland Drive, Tempe, AZ 85281

About Envoy America:

Envoy America was founded in 2015 to help seniors, the infirm and disabled stay independent, healthy and socially active – all without getting behind the wheel of a car. Envoy America offers door-to-door service where the Driver Companions not only drive, but also provide assistance and companionship services at all points along the journey, from pushing a grocery cart, to running errands, to escorting clients to and from medical appointments and more. Envoy America is the proud recipient of the Dementia Society of America prestigious Dementia SMART Award. Envoy America is preferred by senior clients for its safe and friendly experience and its commitment to affecting positive change for the future of seniors. Envoy America is currently operating in more than 130 cities across the country and is expanding rapidly.

For more information, visit www.envoyamerica.com or visit our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/EnvoyAmerica/

About FSL (Foundation for Senior Living)

FSL is a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to provide home and community-based services and to develop energy-efficient, affordable housing to promote health, independence and dignity for all. With a long history of helping Arizona families with issues including health, hunger, aging, illness, loneliness and substandard housing, FSL is committed to improving the quality of life for all Arizonans. To learn more about FSL programs and services, visit fsl.org.

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For media inquiries contact:

Erica Fetherston

10 to 1 Public Relations
480-676-9141
erica@10to1pr.com

Josh Weiss

10 to 1 Public Relations

(480) 789-0743

josh@10to1pr.com

FSL Wins Two Housing Hero Awards from the Arizona Department of Housing

PHOENIX, Ariz. (Aug. 2, 2019) – FSL has been awarded two Housing Hero Awards from the Arizona Department of Housing for South Phoenix Village (SPV) and Marist on Cathedral Square in Tucson. FSL will be recognized on Wed, Aug. 21 at a luncheon during the Arizona Housing Forum at The Scott in Scottsdale. 

“We are honored to be recognized for our projects,” said Steve Hastings. “The Marist on Cathedral Square, more than any project that we have developed before represents the character and history of the community that surrounds it.”

South Phoenix Village is an infill project and a partnership with the City of Phoenix Neighborhood Services Department (NSD).  The SPV infill redevelopment project turned vacant lots near 24^th Street and Broadway into 126 new, energy efficient, single-family homes.  

The floor plans at South Phoenix Village range from 1,300 to 1,700 square feet and range in price from $190,000 to $215,000. Adding to the affordability, they all come with $15,000 in home buyer assistance in the form of a zero percent interest deferred loan for qualified home buyers.

Marist on Cathedral Square opened in December 2018 and offers affordable senior living apartments at 111 S. and 235 S. Church Avenue in Tucson.

The $25 million project turned the historic Marist College into the site of a new affordable senior living community featuring 83 units. The project was funded by Low Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC), FHLB of San Francisco Affordable Housing Program (AHP), Rio Nuevo Tax Increment Finance and Pima County G.O. Bonds. 

The property features spacious one and two bedroom units between 630 and 875 square feet.  All utilities except cable and phone are included in rent. Residents enjoy free amenities like an intercom system, security system, laundry facilities, a computer center, a spacious community room with a full kitchen, fitness room, and community space on the roof top.

Residents can also participate in free activities like a financial literacy classes, computer training, health promotion and disease prevention, wellness classes, blood pressure/health screenings, free membership to neighboring senior center and a food pantry. It’s a smoke free property and the Marist does have some resident parking on site. The trolley and public transportation stops are conveniently located right next to the property. 

To learn more about South Phoenix Village, please visit www.SouthPhoenixVillage.com and the Marist on Cathedral Square, please visit: https://www.fsl.org/maristtucson/.

About FSL (Foundation for Senior Living)

FSL is a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to provide home and community-based services and to develop energy-efficient, affordable housing to promote health, independence and dignity for all. With a long history of helping Arizona families with issues including health, hunger, aging, illness, loneliness and substandard housing, FSL is committed to improving the quality of life for all Arizonans. To learn more about FSL programs and services, visit fsl.org.

# # #

FSL Awarded AHP Funds to Bring More Affordable Housing to Flagstaff

PHOENIX, Ariz. (June 27, 2019) – FSL (Foundation for Senior Living) is pleased to announce that it has received grant funding from the Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco Affordable Housing Program (AHP) and lending partner, Oxford Life Insurance Company (Oxford Life) for its newest affordable multifamily housing development in Flagstaff, AZ.   Oxford Life is a national life insurance company based in Phoenix, who specializes in providing insurance and retirement savings products and services to the senior market. San Francisco Square Apartments will be built as part of a larger redevelopment effort on 2.064 acres of land in the heart of downtown Flagstaff. 

“As the need for affordable and accessible housing becomes a national issue for seniors, every dollar towards construction becomes more precious,” said Stephen L. Hastings, Director of FSL Real Estate Services. “We cannot thank Oxford Life and the Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco for their investment in our community enough.”

FSL received $1.2 million in AHP funds to develop affordable housing for low-income seniors.  This project will be completed in phases beginning with 70 units of affordable senior housing.  The phases to follow will include development of affordable family housing, parking and a portion of open land for future development.  The “San Fran” will service seniors 62 years old and older at 40%, 50% and 60% of the Area Median Income. 

There is an increased demand for affordable housing in Flagstaff.  According to the National Low Income Housing Coalition Out of Reach Report in 2017, a two-bedroom apartment in Arizona averages $913 a month and it takes 1.8 full time jobs to afford it.  The average income needed to afford a two-bedroom apartment is $36,525/year.  This need for affordable housing in Flagstaff is great and frequently out of reach for individuals and families.

To further exhibit the need for affordable housing in Flagstaff, FSL’s other affordable senior housing complex, Flagstaff Senior Meadows, has a waitlist of over 400 people.  A new development of affordable housing for seniors and eventually for families cannot come soon enough.

About FSL (Foundation for Senior Living)

FSL is a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to provide home and community-based services and to develop energy-efficient, affordable housing to promote health, independence and dignity for all. With a long history of helping Arizona families with issues including health, hunger, aging, illness, loneliness and substandard housing, FSL is committed to improving the quality of life for all Arizonans. To learn more about FSL programs and services, visit fsl.org.

Contact:          Lindsay Hansen                                

                         PR Consultant                       

                         (480) 205-6195                     

                         lindsay@ldhconsulting.net

Individuals and organizations that have contributed significantly to historic preservation in Tucson and Pima County will be recognized at the annual Historic Preservation Awards Ceremony hosted by the Tucson‒Pima County Historical Commission (T-PCHC).

            Date:               Saturday, May 25, 2019           

            Time:               9:30 a.m.‒11:30 a.m.   Doors open at 9:00 a.m.

            Place:              Lander Auditorium at Dunbar Pavilion, 325 W. Second St., Tucson, AZ  85705

The T-PCHC’s mission is to foster awareness and preservation of historic sites, structures, districts, and character in our community. The Tucson Mayor and City Council, City of South Tucson, and Pima County Board of Supervisors appoint its members.

Historic preservation awards will be presented in two categories:

• The Alene Dunlap Smith and Paul Smith Award to those who have demonstrated a high level of dedication and long-term commitment toward historic preservation.
• The Historic Preservation Award to those projects whose contributions to preservation have had a significant impact at the community level.

2019 Historic Preservation Awards will be given for/to:

• Successful designation of the Santa Cruz Valley National Heritage Area, achieved by the dedication and perseverance of Congressman Raúl Grijalva and the Santa Cruz Valley Heritage Alliance.
• Establishment of the Chuck Huckelberry Loop, a 120-mile bicycle-hiking-equestrian Pima County amenity, through the efforts of Pima County Administrator Chuck Huckleberry.
• Creation of a map of Dunbar Spring Historic Houses Older than 1918, by Karen Greene and neighborhood residents.
• The Mexican-American Heritage and History Museum, established by Betty J. Villegas and Los Descendientes del Presidio de Tucson.
• The Border Commission Alliance, led by Jerry Haas and Alexander La Pierre, for outreach programs designed to bridge the U.S.-Mexico Border through education, collaboration, and cultural exchange
• The Ignite Sign Art Museum, Jude and Monica Cook creators
• Successful nomination leading to designation of U.S. 80 as an Arizona Historic Road, by Demion Clinco, Tucson Preservation Foundation, and others
• The Voices of Vail documentary, produced by the Vail Preservation Society through the vision of J.J. Lamb, Vail residents, and many collaborators
• Linking Southwestern Heritage through Archaeology, a local heritage and history program for high school students, led by Sara Chavarria and Barbara J. Mills of the University of Arizona.
• Rehabilitation and adaptive reuse of the historic Marist College as senior housing, by Steve Hastings, Foundation for Senior Living; Savannah McDonald, Architect, Poster Frost Mirto; and collaborators.

The 2019 Alene Dunlap Smith and Paul Smith Award will be presented to Peter L. Steere, Tribal Historic Preservation Officer, Tohono O’odham Nation, for his advocacy on behalf of the culture and history of the Tohono O’odham people and for his historic and cultural preservation activities in Pima County.

The event is free and open to the public.  Tours of the Historic Dunbar Pavilion will be available after the Awards Ceremony. 

Contact: 

Beth Grindell

Tucson‒Pima County Historical Commission

(520) 250-9773

grindell@cox.net

TTY: (520) 791-2639

FSL Plans Grand Opening of Marist on Cathedral Square on April 11

Tucson, Ariz. (April 3, 2019)…FSL is holding a grand opening for the new Marist on Cathedral Square on Thursday, April 11 at 10 a.m. The new affordable senior living apartments are located at 111 S. and 235 S. Church Ave. in Tucson. Tucson Mayor Jonathan Rothschild, Carol Ditmore, director of the Arizona Department of Housing, Marietta Nunez, VP, Community Investment Officer for the Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco, and two county commissioners will be in attendance. 

The $25 million project turned the historic Marist College into the site of a new affordable senior living community featuring 83 units. The project was funded by Low Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC), FHLB of San Francisco Affordable Housing Program (AHP), Rio Nuevo Tax Increment Finance and Pima County G.O. Bonds. 

“We’re very excited to be opening the Marist at Cathedral Square,” said Steve Hastings, chief of real estate services, FSL.  “The Marist is part of a larger effort to transform the area with beautiful buildings and pedestrian-friendly walks.  We look forward to welcoming our residents and appreciate our partners on this project.”

The property features spacious one and two bedroom units between 630 and 875 square foot.  All utilities except cable and phone are included in rent. Residents will enjoy free amenities like an intercom system, security system, laundry facilities, a computer center, a spacious community room with a full kitchen, fitness room, and community space on the roof top.

Residents can also participate in free activities like a financial literacy classes, computer training, health promotion and disease prevention, wellness classes, blood pressure/health screenings and a food pantry. It’s a smoke free property and the Marist does have some resident parking on site. The trolley and public transportation are conveniently located right next to the property. 

Media is invited to attend the grand opening, tour the facility, speak with FSL executives, the Mayor, county commissioners or the Arizona Department of Housing.  To RSVP, please contact Lindsay Hansen, PR consultant at lindsay@ldhconsulting.net or 480-205-6195. 

About FSL (Foundation for Senior Living)

FSL is a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to provide home and community-based services and to develop energy-efficient, affordable housing to promote health, independence and dignity for all. With a long history of helping Arizona families with issues including health, hunger, aging, illness, loneliness and substandard housing, FSL is committed to improving the quality of life for all Arizonans. To learn more about FSL programs and services, visit fsl.org.

New Affordable Senior Living Apartments Ready to Lease

FSL Announces Near Completion at the Marist Apartments in Tucson

Tucson, Ariz. (Nov. 16, 2018)….In 2016, FSL announced plans to repair and restore Arizona’s oldest and largest Adobe building into eight affordable senior living apartments on the Marist College site and build 75 new affordable senior living apartments on a neighboring lot. Construction is almost complete and they are ready to begin leasing the 75 midrise units. 

“The Marist project is part of a much larger effort to invite Tucson Convention Center visitors up to Tucson entertainment district,” said Steve Hastings, chief of real estate services, FSL.  “The Cathedral Square is being transformed as well as Ochoa Street with beautiful buildings and pedestrian-friendly walks.  There are too many people to recognize in this effort but critical to the list is Mayor Rothschild and City Council, Pima County Commissioners, Rio Nuevo Chair Fletcher McCusker and Commissioners, and Bishop Kicanas.  Everyone played an oversized role in this project and all are indispensable.”

The property features spacious one and two bedroom units between 630 and 875 square foot.  All utilities except cable and phone are included in rent. Residents can also enjoy free amenities like an intercom system, security system, laundry facilities, a computer center, a spacious community room with a full kitchen, fitness room, and community space on the roof top. Once the property opens, there will be free activities like a financial literacy class, computer training, health promotion and disease prevention, wellness classes, blood pressure/health screenings and a food pantry. It’s a smoke free property and the Marist will have some resident parking on site. The trolley and public transportation are right next to the property. 

“Any Tucsonans, age 62 or older in need of affordable housing should contact us immediately,” said Hastings. “We are anticipating this community will lease very quickly due to its convenient access to light rail and other amenities.”

To learn more about the Marist project, contact Megan Hanson, community manager at 520-231-1121 or via email at  info.marist@fsl.org. Applications can also be obtained by stopping by our temporary leasing office at Ben’s Bells, 40 W Broadway Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85701.

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About FSL (Foundation for Senior Living)

FSL is a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to provide home and community-based services and to develop energy-efficient, affordable housing to promote health, independence and dignity for all. With a long history of helping Arizona families with issues including health, hunger, aging, illness, loneliness and substandard housing, FSL is committed to improving the quality of life for all Arizonans. To learn more about FSL programs and services, visit fsl.org.

The infill project in South Phoenix is making home-ownership more affordable

(Phoenix, Ariz.) – Mandalay Homes in partnership with FSL Real Estate Services and the City of Phoenix are proud to announce they have won the U.S. Department of Energy’s Housing Innovation award for 2018 in the “Affordable” category. The award was given for their submission of the infill project at South Phoenix Village, a partnership with FSL and the city of Phoenix Neighborhood Services Department. This category was very competitive in 2018, as in previous years, making this an even more significant accomplishment for the builder.

South Phoenix Village is a thoughtful project designed to provide quality, energy-efficient housing, promote successful diverse homeownership and to create a vibrant and healthy community. Mandalay Homes set out to improve that condition by building homes that use significantly less energy, which is constantly rising in price. Geoff Ferrell – Chief Technology Officer for Mandalay Homes says that these infill homes are a great application of their energy efficient building style. “We’re proud to be building energy efficient homes for this community where the cost of ownership can be effected by the cost of electricity. Not only are we selling them a great product, but it’s important to us to bring sustainable, meaningful home building to an established part of Phoenix where it’s being very well received,” Ferrell said.

Steve Hastings, Chief of Real Estate at The Foundation for Senior Living (FSL), counts the South Phoenix Village Project as one of the best he’s been a part of. “It has been a wonderful opportunity to serve the community of South Phoenix by developing affordable, energy-efficient homes with the help and support of our project partners. We’re honored to be recognized by the Department of Energy for our efforts,” said Hastings.

The floor plans at South Phoenix Village range from 1,300 to 1,700 square feet and range in price from $190,000 to $215,000. Adding to the affordability, they all come with $15,000 in home buyer assistance in the form of a zero percent interest deferred loan for qualified home buyers.

To learn more about South Phoenix Village and all the other communities being built by Mandalay Homes across Arizona, visit MandalayHomes.com or call 855-955-6466.

About Mandalay Homes


Founded in 1999 by Dave Everson, Mandalay Homes is recognized as one of the most innovative new home builders in America. A 10-time winner of the DOE’s award for innovation and an ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year two years in a row, Mandalay Homes has a passion for building homes that promote safety, health, comfort, style, reduced energy costs, and less environmental impact. Mandalay Homes is committed to being an industry leader in innovation and thoughtful design while utilizing cutting-edge technology to create high-performance homes.

Media Contacts:
Jessica Walls, jessica.walls@mandalayhomes.com
855.955.6466

FSL Receives Low Income Housing Tax Credit for Two Senior Living Projects: Village at Roeser and Acacia Heights

PHOENIX, Ariz. (July 25, 2018) – FSL (Foundation for Senior Living) has received Low Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC) for two senior living projects. The Village on Roeser is an acquisition rehab with new construction and the award provides for 104 units with a total development cost of $18,012,570. The Acacia Heights award is for acquisition, demolition and new construction. The project provides for 78 units with a total development cost of $16,741,026. Both of these projects are senior campuses in Phoenix with incredible community support from the Arizona Department of Housing, City of Phoenix and the Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco.

“As the need for affordable senior housing continues to grow, a strategy of preservation of existing stock along with new construction is essential,” said Steve Hastings, director of real estate, FSL. “These awards allow FSL to do both addressing overwhelming need with a comprehensive response.  Most of all, it makes our senior residents very happy.”

Village on Roeser is located at 446 E. Roeser Road in Phoenix. FSL will be developing the vacant land adjacent to their existing property, Roeser Village, located at 454 E. Roeser Road. Acacia Heights is located at 615 W. Pierson Street in Phoenix. FSL is acquiring a portion of the office space from Catholic Charities and they plan to demolish that building.

Construction is anticipated to begin on both projects in spring 2019 and should be completed 18 months later. Both properties will be energy efficient and include energy efficient appliances inside the apartment units. Admittance to the senior living apartments will be based on age and income qualifications. More details to come on both, once the application process is open. 

To learn more about Village on Roeser and/or Acacia Heights, please contact FSL Real Estate Services at 602-285-1800.

About FSL

Since 1974, we’ve been providing home and community-based services to help families with issues such as health, hunger, aging, illness, loneliness and substandard housing. We’re committed to improving the quality of life for individuals and caregivers in Arizona. Our team is ready to help Arizonans manage the aging process by providing resources, education and support. To learn more about our programs and services, visit: www.fsl.org.

FSL and Alzheimer’s Association Partner to Host a Carnival for Adult Day Clients

New plumbing installed providing safe water for disabled, elderly woman
PHOENIX – (June 11, 2018) – For months, Rosie Bruno was living with broken and unsafe plumbing in both her kitchen and bathroom. When the Catholic Diocese of Phoenix and the Foundation for Senior Living (FSL) were alerted to her situation, they turned to their longtime partner, The Sunny Plumber, to help with the repairs.
The Sunny Plumber quickly assessed her needs and repaired her broken toilet, installed a new garbage disposal, replaced various drains, supply lines and valves. The Sunny Plumber donated the equipment and provided all of the work at no charge to Ms. Bruno. The donation is valued at more than $2,000. All the work made Ms. Bruno’s home much safer to navigate for the disabled Peoria resident.
“The Sunny Plumber is proud to call Phoenix our home and when one of our neighbors is in need of help, we are happy to jump in and assist,” said Gary Eisenhauer, general manager at The Sunny Plumber. “We are glad we could help Ms. Bruno with her repairs and make her home better and safer for her health.”
FSL and The Sunny Plumber have worked together for years to help give seniors relief to their plumbing challenges. In 2017, The Sunny Plumber donated a $100,000 grant to FSL to fund ongoing requests from seniors in dire need of plumbing repairs. More than 100 elderly residents needing repairs have been benefactors of The Sunny Plumber donations.
“We are blessed to have generous partners like The Sunny Plumber willing to help our seniors in need,” said Katie Martin, program director of FSL Home Improvements. “We are pleased that Ms. Bruno now has plumbing equipment that functions properly and that her home is a safer place to live.”

About Foundation for Senior Living
FSL is a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to provide home and community-based services and develop energy-efficient, affordable housing to promote health, independence and dignity for all. With a long history of helping Arizona families with issues such as health, hunger, aging, illness, loneliness and substandard housing, FSL is committed to improving the quality of life for all Arizonans. To learn more about our programs and services, visit www.FSL.org.

About The Sunny Plumber
The Sunny Plumber offers the highest quality plumbing services throughout the Southwest. All plumbers are experienced in solving a wide variety of plumbing problems including drain cleaning, leak detection, sewer line and garbage disposal repair. The company also sells, installs and services standard and tankless water heaters. All plumbers are background-checked, drug-tested, and receive continuous technical training to make them the best in the industry. Once again, readers of Arizona Foothills Magazine’s “Best of Our Valley 2018” named The Sunny Plumber the “Best Plumbing Company” in the Arizona.

CONTACT:
Greg Sexton
gsexton@santy.com
480-688-0766

PHOENIX, Ariz. (March 21, 2018) – FSL (Foundation for Senior Living) has embarked on a capital campaign to raise $5 million to build a new Northwest Valley Adult Day Health Services Center (ADHS). They are proud to announce Thunderbirds Charities recently made a $100,000 donation towards the campaign. The new center will be located at _______ in Glendale and the goal is to have it operational within 24 months.  

“The site will be central to the growing Northwest Valley senior population, including asignificant veteran community,” said Tom Egan, chief executive office, FSL. “The new centerwill have easier access and be able to serve the multiple needs of individuals in both the senior and younger adult populations.”

The new center will be attractive and welcoming with bright, comfortable and well-equipped meeting, work and health monitoring environments. The building will include shower and laundry facilities, , physical therapy, educational activities, , serving kitchen, media and exercise rooms, and a memory garden.

The current center is housed in a rented facility that no longer meets the FSL standards for quality care or accessibility.

“Families and individuals are significantly underserved in the Northwest Valley, lacking quality skilled professional care, therapeutic services and socialization opportunities to enrich lives and support healthy independent living,” said Egan.  

FSL’s team includes a Registered Nurse to supervise healthcare management; Certified Therapeutic Recreational Therapists, Certified Nursing Assistants, Social Workers; and dedicated staff providing personal attention, individualized care plans, interactive games and activities as well as companionship. FSL ADHS offers nutritious meals to meet a variety of needs, therapeutic recreational activities, daily exercise, personal care including bathing, community outings and special events, celebrations and holiday programs, limited transportation, education and information programs.

The staff and specialized services are also available to support individuals experiencing dementia, traumatic brain injuries and a variety of other cognitive and physical challenges. FSL’s ADHS is a haven for family members and caregivers, offering the family respite from the stress and demands of full-time support for loved ones and the opportunity to remain in the workforce.

To make a donation to FSL’s capital campaign, please contact the Development Office at 602-285-1800 or send an email to donations@fsl.org.

About Thunderbirds Charities Thunderbirds Charities is a non-profit organization formed in 1986 to distribute monies raised through the Waste Management Phoenix Open golf tournament. The Thunderbirds Charities Board consists of 15 board members from varying professional backgrounds. The mission of Thunderbirds Charities is to assist children and families, help people in need and improve the quality of life in our communities. The organization’s giving is directed toward organizations based or with a significant presence in Arizona. For more information on Thunderbirds Charities or the Waste Management Phoenix Open, visit www.wmphoenixopen.com or call the Thunderbirds office at (602) 870-0163.

About FSL (Foundation for Senior Living)

FSL is a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to provide home and community-based services and to develop energy-efficient, affordable housing to promote health, independence and dignity for all. With a long history of helping Arizona families with issues including health, hunger, aging, illness, loneliness and substandard housing, FSL is committed to improving the quality of life for all Arizonans. To learn more about FSL programs and services, visit fsl.org.

Contact: ​Lindsay Hansen​​​

PR Consultant ​​

​​(480) 205-6195​​

​​lindsay@ldhconsulting.net

Nearly 100 elderly residents have had free plumbing repairs in 2017
PHOENIX – (Dec. 19, 2017) – Thanks to a $100,000 grant by The Sunny Plumber, nearly 100 low income elderly residents with emergency plumbing needs have had free plumbing repairs and replaced fixtures in 2017. The grant, given to the nonprofit FSL (Foundation for Senior Living), made the donated repairs possible.
From new water heaters, to new toilets, fixtures and pipe repairs, seniors across Greater Phoenix have benefited from the grant, which was announced by The Sunny Plumber in January 2017. As of early December, 90 residents have received free plumbing services – with more scheduled throughout the rest of 2017.
“We are grateful that The Sunny Plumber has been able to help so many residents in our community,” said Gary Eisenhauer, manager at The Sunny Plumber. “FSL has done an excellent job allocating these funds to help those with the greatest need.”
The plumbing industry in Arizona has also taken notice. The Sunny Plumber was recognized as “Contractor of the Year” by the Metro Phoenix Plumbing, Heating and Cooling Contractors Association. The award was given at the association’s annual dinner in November.
“Together, FSL and The Sunny Plumber make a great team,” said Katie Martin, program director of FSL Home Improvements. “This year, we surpassed our goal of number of clients served and we truly appreciate The Sunny Plumber’s generosity. It has been so rewarding to help so many seniors with these vitally needed repairs that would not have been possible without The Sunny Plumber.”

About The Sunny Plumber
The Sunny Plumber offers the highest quality plumbing services throughout the Southwest. All plumbers are experienced in solving a wide variety of plumbing problems including drain cleaning, leak detection, sewer line and garbage disposal repair. The company also sells, installs and services standard and tankless water heaters. All plumbers are background-checked, drug-tested, and receive continuous technical training to make them the best in the industry. The Sunny Plumber was recently named the “Best Plumbing Company” in the state by readers of Arizona Foothills Magazine’s “Best of Our Valley 2017.” For more information, visit thesunnyplumber.com.

About Foundation for Senior Living
FSL is a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to provide home and community-based services and develop energy-efficient, affordable housing to promote health, independence and dignity for all. With a long history of helping Arizona families with issues such as health, hunger, aging, illness, loneliness and substandard housing, FSL is committed to improving the quality of life for all Arizonans. To learn more about our programs and services, visit www.FSL.org.

CONTACT:
Greg Sexton
gsexton@santy.com
480-688-0766

Grant part of $6M effort to help revitalize communities impacted by economy

SAN FRANCISCO – Nov. XX, 2016 – Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE: WFC) today announced it will donate $100,000 to FSL (Foundation for Senior Living) as part of $6 million initiative in neighborhood stabilization grants awarded to 56 nonprofits through its 2016 Wells Fargo Housing Foundation Priority Markets Program to help stabilize and revitalize neighborhoods impacted by the economy. The Priority Markets Program provides grant support to support large-scale neighborhood revitalization projects to further economic recovery in local communities.

“The Priority Markets Program has been a catalyst for bringing together community stakeholders with common interests to improve neighborhoods that are producing sustainable results and adding up to make a huge difference for communities,” said Pam Conboy, lead region president for Wells Fargo. “We are so pleased to support FSL’s continued efforts to provide housing solutions for low-income homebuyers.”

FSL is actively involved and experienced in community revitalization efforts and was identified by Wells Fargo as leading large-scale neighborhood projects. Priority Markets program grants can be used for any costs associated with the development or redevelopment of the project. Recipients must be IRS 501c3 organizations with successful histories of building or renovating housing for low-to moderate-income homebuyers.

“Home ownership is a key tenet of the American dream, explains Tom Egan, President and CEO of FSL. “FSL is proud to partner with the Wells Fargo Housing Foundation to help make this dream a reality for families at South Phoenix Village. These new affordable homes are not just transformational for the families that buy them, but transformational for our whole community. I want to thank Wells Fargo for their leadership and investment in our community.

FSL will use the grant to support the construction of 121 new energy-efficient homes in South Phoenix Village (SPV) and provide 12 down-payment assistance grants to homebuyers earning less than 80% of area median income (currently $50,300 for a family of four). The homebuyer assistance grants, leveraged against lower utility payments resulting from the energy-efficient construction, will equate to significant savings for low-income households. The SPV infill redevelopment project, partially funded by the City of Phoenix Neighborhood Services Department, will increase sustainability of the community by increasing owner occupancy in the area between Corona Avenue and Roeser Road and 24th and 32nd streets.

Since 2009, the Priority Markets grant program, funded through the Wells Fargo Housing Foundation, has provided more than $42 million to 125 U.S. communities.

The Priority Markets Program grants are administered through the Wells Fargo Housing Foundation.

About Foundation for Senior Living (FSL)
FSL’s mission is to provide home and community-based services and develop energy-efficient, affordable housing to promote health, independence and dignity for all. FSL has a long history of helping families with issues such as health, hunger, aging, illness, loneliness and substandard housing and has been actively improving the lives of Arizonans for over 40 years.. To learn more about our programs and services, visit: www.fsl.org.

About the Wells Fargo Housing Foundation
In 2015, the Wells Fargo Housing Foundation donated nearly $20 million in support of affordable housing initiatives serving low-and moderate-income households – including for seniors, veterans, and families – through community revitalization efforts. Since its inception in 1993, the Wells Fargo Housing Foundation has invested more than $170 million to such efforts, along with mobilizing more than 4.7 million team member volunteer hours to build and rehabilitate nearly more than 7,000 homes and counting.

About Wells Fargo
In Arizona, Wells Fargo has 252 branches and approximately 15,000 team members. Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE: WFC) is a diversified, community-based financial services company with $1.9 trillion in assets. Founded in 1852 and headquartered in San Francisco, Wells Fargo provides banking, insurance, investments, mortgage, and consumer and commercial finance through more than 8,600 locations, 13,000 ATMs, the internet (wellsfargo.com) and mobile banking, and has offices in 42 countries and territories to support customers who conduct business in the global economy. With approximately 269,000 team members, Wells Fargo serves one in three households in the United States. Wells Fargo & Company was ranked No. 27 on Fortune’s 2016 rankings of America’s largest corporations. Wells Fargo’s vision is to satisfy our customers’ financial needs and help them succeed financially. In 2015, Wells Fargo donated $281.3 million to 16,300 nonprofits, ranking No. 3 on the Chronicle of Philanthropy’s rankings of the top corporate cash philanthropists. Wells Fargo team members volunteered 1.86 million hours in 2015, serving more than 40,000 nonprofits. Wells Fargo’s corporate social responsibility efforts are focused on three priorities: economic empowerment in underserved communities, environmental sustainability, and advancing diversity and social inclusion. News, insights and perspectives from Wells Fargo are also available at Wells Fargo Stories.

Media contact:
Lori Brown
602-378-4434
brownlo@wellsfargo.com

Lindsay Hansen
480-205-6195
Lindsay@ldhconsulting.net

According to AARP, 87% of Americans want to age in place, meaning that they would like to remain living in their own home for as long as possible, often requiring the support of a family caregiver. Family caregivers often do not identify as such, and rarely ask for help primarily because they do now what help is available.

In Arizona alone 855,000 family caregivers provide care at an estimated value of $9 billion annually. Family caregivers accept their roles gladly but are generally unprepared for the financial and personal stresses they assume.    

“People are often thrust into the role of caregiver when a loved one is disabled, falls ill or experiences issues related to aging,” said Tom Egan, CEO of FSL. “We know being a caregiver can be emotionally, financially, mentally and physically draining. FSL offers a variety of services to help caregivers. We want it to be a rewarding and pleasant experience.”

10 Tips for Caregivers

1. If you are new to caregiving, learn as much as you can about your loved ones condition or diagnosis. It will help reduce your anxiety and allow you to focus on what needs to be done moving forward.
2. Seek help and accept it when it’s offered. Prepare a list of ways others can help you so that you are ready when the offer comes. Divide tasks between siblings or other relatives, and ask neighbors or friends to check on your loved one. Seek professional help such as FSL’s Home Care or Adult Day Health Services to give yourself a break.
3. Join a local support group, or connect with one online. Being able to discuss your situation and share both the good and bad can be a healthy outlet for stress. It will also be a wonderful way to create meaningful and lasting friendships.
4. Set goals for yourself, both in your role as a caregiver and in your own life. Set a goal to establish a healthy sleep routine or to go for a walk each day to clear your head. Be realistic in your goals as a caregiver, and know when to say “no” or to share responsibilities.
5. Keep up on your doctor appointments. Being a caregiver is demanding, but don’t forget to care for yourself too. You need to keep your regularly scheduled dentist and doctor appointments. You need to stay healthy and strong as a caregiver.
6. Plan a night off! Set aside time each week for reconnecting with friends or family. It’s important to have a support team on standby, taking care of your loved one during this time so that you can turn off the phone and focus on yourself and your own emotional needs.
7. Communication is key. Make sure you are communicating often with doctors and other family members.
8. Be open to new technologies that may make it easier to organize, schedule appointments, communicate with family members out of state, etc.
9. Make a financial plan. Start talking about it early; what are your loved one’s wishes – to age in place at home or go into an assisted living or a group home? It’s best to have those discussions early, so you can research availability and costs in advance.
10. Remind yourself often that you do not have to be perfect! Believe that you are doing the best you can and making good, proactive decisions in regards to your loved one’s care. It’s normal to deal with feelings of guilt, but it is imperative to put yourself first.

Check our blog and social media pages throughout the month of November for more tips and tricks for family caregivers. Please make sure to sign up for our enews at www.fsl.org or watch for our posts at https://www.facebook.com/FSLhelps. Call us today at 602-285-1800 if you need help finding resources to make your life as a caregiver easier and less stressful!

The BHHS Legacy Foundation has awarded grant funding in the amount of $50,000 for The Foundation for Senior Living (FSL) Aging in Place educational program. The funds have been used to hire and train a Community Engagement Specialist who is responsible for creating and conducting presentations to Valley employers, community groups, churches and other organizations. The goal of the program is to provide education about FSL’s services and other community resources for aging in place.

Aging in place describes one’s ability to remain living in their own home for as long as possible, often with the support of a family caregiver. Family caregivers often do not identify as such, and rarely ask for help primarily because they do not know what help is available.
“People are often thrust into the role of caregiver when a loved one is disabled, falls ill or experiences issues related to aging,” says Tom Egan, CEO of FSL. “As employers, we need to adapt to the needs of our workforce. With support of this grant from BHHS Legacy, we will be able to meet caregivers where they are.”
According to AARP, 58% of family caregivers are currently employed, balancing work with their caregiving role. Further, it has been estimated that U.S. businesses lose up to $33.6 billion per year in lost productivity from full-time caregiving employees. These losses could be due to employees’ need to provide transportation to medical appointments, make arrangements for care or communicate with health professionals.
“FSL provides many services that can directly help caregivers; additionally, we can connect them to other resources they may need,” explains Bevin Page, FSL’s Community Engagement Specialist. “With support from BHHS Legacy we’re going to be able to expand our services, reach more people, and lessen the burden of caregiving. We’re so grateful for their commitment to our mission.”
Employers interested in this program can request one or more 60-minute presentations in their location which could be provided over their employees’ lunch hour. Presentation topics include: Self-Care Tips for Caregivers, Caregiving Techniques and Demonstrations, How to Pay for Care and Avoiding Scams, Fraud and Abuse.
FSL expects to reach 1,500 individuals through this new educational program in the first year. For more information or to schedule a presentation at your location, please contact Bevin Page, Community Engagement Specialist, at 602-285-0505 x167.

PHOENIX, Ariz. (Aug. 1, 2016)…The Foundation for Senior Living (FSL) is pleased to announce open enrollment for the new Highland Square Senior Apartments in Cottonwood has begun. The 60 unit senior community located at 299 W. Mingus Avenue (approximately the South East Corner of Mingus Avenue and Candy Lane) will house seniors in clean, quiet, energy efficient apartments.

To request an application packet, at least one member of each household must be 62 years of age or older and qualify as low or very low income. Application packets are available by visiting Guardian Property Management in Cottonwood at Aspen Ridge Apartments, located at 831 E. Mingus Avenue or calling (928) 852-0720. The application will describe in detail what is required and the completed packet can be mailed via USPS or delivered in person. The formation of the wait list begins upon the receipt of a completed application with all the required documentation. The applicant screening process begins on August 15, 2016 and as applicants are approved they will be offered a unit.

“We have been working together with the Council and community on this development for several years,” said Tom Egan, president and CEO of FSL.  “It’s exciting to see it near completion. The project brings together the best of green construction materials, innovation and energy efficiency with affordable rental rates.  All sixty income eligible residents will pay just 30% of their income for housing.  We’re really proud to be a part of such a wonderful project.”

The structure includes 50 one bedroom and 10 two bedroom apartment homes contained in an “L” shaped building design. The one bedroom units are 740 square feet in size and the two bedrooms are 957 square feet. The units will have nine foot ceilings, walk-in closets, and all appliances will have designer enhanced finish. The two bedroom units will have two baths with a split master design. Each unit will have a patio or deck with storage included. The building will have a fire sprinkler system and emergency alarm and lighting systems.

The common areas will include administrative offices, social areas, community kitchen, multi-purpose room, community meeting room, community laundry on each floor and office space/work room for supportive services providers. Elevators in the entry area will serve the second and third floors.

The project will focus on sustainability and meet various system and material uses including water efficiency (low flow unit fixtures), improved U value roof and wall systems, Energy Star appliances, lighting and windows. HVAC will utilize a heat pump split system (minimum SEER rating of 14) with heating units mounted in the hallway plenum of the units and the condenser mounted on the roof.

“We’re very excited about this project,” said Steve Hastings, Chief of FSL Real Estate Services. “It’s the last new construction RD project in the country to receive subsidies for all 60 units.  From an environmental perspective we’ve designed it to be very sustainable. The project will not have any materials with VOC’s or Volatile Organic Chemicals and the exterior walls will have sprayed in green insulation.  It’s going to be a beautiful property and we look forward to residents moving in and enjoying their new home.”

FSL is partnering with USDA Rural Development, Arizona Department of Housing, Campbell-Hogue & Associates, Enterprise, , , Johnson Bank, Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago, and the City of Cottonwood on this project. Expected completion is October. 2016.

To learn more about Highland Square Senior Apartments in Cottonwood, please call (928) 852-0720 or via email at highlandsquare@gres.com.

About Foundation for Senior Living (FSL)
FSL has a long history of helping families with issues such as health, hunger, aging, illness, loneliness and substandard housing.  3 million Baby Boomers will turn 65 every year for the next 20 years.  Our team is ready to help Arizonans manage the aging process by providing resources, education and support.  We’re committed to improving the quality of life for individuals and caregivers in Arizona. To learn more about our programs and services, visit: www.fsl.org.

Contact: Lindsay Hansen
PR Consultant
(480) 205-6195
lindsay@ldhconsulting.net

PHOENIX, Ariz. (June 9, 2016)…The Rio Nuevo Board recently approved $350,000 for a low income senior housing project at the Marist College in Tucson. The project will repair and restore Arizona’s oldest and largest Adobe building. The proposed project will bring eight affordable senior living apartments to the Marist site and construct 75 affordable senior living apartments on a neighboring lot.

Foundation for Senior Living (FSL) is hoping to be awarded more than $19 Million in Low Income Housing Tax Credits with additional funding from the City of Tucson and Pima County. If awarded, construction could begin later this year and the apartments would be available to seniors by early 2018.

Steve Hastings, Director of Real Estate Services, FSL says, “This is an important step in the process and represents a considerable contribution from the Tucson community. It brings us closer to the goal of saving the Marist and offering more affordable housing downtown to seniors who want access to the light rail and other amenities.”

To learn more about the Marist project, contact Steve at  602-285-1800 x 139.

 
About Foundation for Senior Living
FSL has a long history of helping families with issues such as health, hunger, aging, illness, loneliness and substandard housing.  3 million Baby Boomers will turn 65 every year for the next 20 years.  Our team is ready to help Arizonans manage the aging process by providing resources, education and support.  We’re committed to improving the quality of life for individuals and caregivers in Arizona. To learn more about our programs and services, visit: www.fsl.org.

Contact: Lindsay Hansen
PR Consultant
(480) 205-6195
lindsay@ldhconsulting.net

PHOENIX, Ariz. (June 7, 2016)…The Foundation for Senior Living (FSL) is pleased to announce they recently received a $5,000 CoBiz Cares Foundation for their food distribution programs in Peoria and Wickenburg.

Thirteen percent (13%) of seniors in Arizona 65+ years of age live in poverty, the third highest percentage among all 50 states in the U.S. (Kaiser Family Foundation, 2013). To alleviate food insecurity in two metropolitan Phoenix communities, FSL has operated multi-purpose senior centers since 1979 that focus on food distribution – congregate meals, home-delivered meals, and food pantries.

The Wickenburg Wise Owl Senior Center and Peoria Community Center have on-site, full-service professional/industrial kitchens that serve congregate meals Monday through Friday, and deliver hot meals weekdays with frozen meals delivered on Friday for weekends. The Wickenburg Wise Owl Senior Center delivers meals west to Aguila, and south to Wittmann including Circle City, and Morristown. The Peoria program serves only residents of Peoria.

“Choosing between food and medication is dangerous and our elderly are forced to make this decision far too often,” said Tom Egan, CEO of FSL. “Due to an unexpected loss of pass-thru governmental funding, we were left with a $50,639 shortfall for our two food distribution programs this fiscal year. We’re thrilled to have support from CoBiz Cares Foundation, it will prevent us from turning away elderly adults or adults with disabilities who need food.”

To learn more about our food distribution programs in Peoria or Wickenburg, contact ________.

About Foundation for Senior Living
FSL has a long history of helping families with issues such as health, hunger, aging, illness, loneliness and substandard housing.  3 million Baby Boomers will turn 65 every year for the next 20 years.  Our team is ready to help Arizonans manage the aging process by providing resources, education and support.  We’re committed to improving the quality of life for individuals and caregivers in Arizona. To learn more about our programs and services, visit: www.fsl.org.

Contact: Lindsay Hansen
PR Consultant
(480) 205-6195
lindsay@ldhconsulting.net

PHOENIX, Ariz. (May 16, 2016)…The Foundation for Senior Living (FSL) is pleased to announce Eileen Madden Mitchell has joined the organization’s board of directors.

Mitchell serves as the Chief Programs & Logistics Officer for St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance. Some of her strengths include: leveraging a global background in supply chain, logistics, sales operations, planning and technology to create positive interactions and enhance team identity while achieving realistic solutions to the most difficult business dilemmas.

Previously, she was with Amdahl Corporation, Cisco Systems, Blue Coat Systems and Freeport-McMoRan Copper and Gold.

About Foundation for Senior Living
FSL has a long history of helping families with issues such as health, hunger, aging, illness, loneliness and substandard housing.  3 million Baby Boomers will turn 65 every year for the next 20 years.  Our team is ready to help Arizonans manage the aging process by providing resources, education and support.  We’re committed to improving the quality of life for individuals and caregivers in Arizona. To learn more about our programs and services, visit: www.fsl.org.

Contact: Lindsay Hansen
PR Consultant
(480) 205-6195
lindsay@ldhconsulting.net

PHOENIX, Ariz. (March 4, 2016)… FSL Real Estate Services is pleased to announce they were selected by the City of Phoenix to construct 121 energy efficient, affordable homes in the South Phoenix Village area near 24th Street and Broadway. The design phase will begin in March 2016 and construction is slated to begin in July 2016. The project will be completed over the next three to five years.

“We’re excited to partner with the City of Phoenix to bring energy efficient and affordable homes to this neighborhood,” said Steve Hastings, Director of Real Estate Services, FSL. “We have a great deal of experience in this area and will include features that will save residents money on their utilities bills.”

A “meet the developer” event was held near the site of the new infill development project on Feb. 27, 2016.

City of Phoenix Vice Mayor Kate Gallego attended and told the crowd, “I am ecstatic to see this infill project move forward.  After a series of public meetings to gain community input, the City of Phoenix has started a partnership with FSL Real Estate Services to convert 121 vacant lots in the neighborhood to new energy efficient, single-story homes over the next three to five years.  This is especially exciting as it will be located in the heart of the Broadway Heritage Neighborhood, a truly mobilized neighborhood where residents actively volunteer and are dedicated to improving the neighborhood located between 24th Street to 32nd Street, Broadway to Roeser. Through this infill project, the City will be able to increase owner occupancy and achieve quality housing by building new, energy efficient, single-family homes at an affordable price. In addition bringing additional quality homes to the area will improve the area’s market conditions overall, facilitating high-quality development for the 24th Street and Broadway community.”

For more information about this project, please contact Steve Hastings at 602-285-1800 x 139.

About FSL
FSL has a long history of helping families with issues such as health, hunger, aging, illness, loneliness and substandard housing.  3 million Baby Boomers will turn 65 every year for the next 20 years.  Our team is ready to help Arizonans manage the aging process by providing resources, education and support.  We’re committed to improving the quality of life for individuals and caregivers in Arizona. To learn more about our programs and services, visit: www.fsl.org.

Contact: Lindsay Hansen
PR Consultant
(480) 205-6195
lindsay@ldhconsulting.net

PHOENIX, Ariz. (Feb. 10, 2016)…The Foundation for Senior Living (FSL) is pleased to announce Scott Wallace, Brenda Holt and Erik Heuser have joined the organization’s board of directors.

Wallace is a partner with Wallace, Plese + Dreher, LLP. He has over 40 years of CPA experience with local and national firms in Phoenix and Southern California. Scott’s community involvement has included Chairman of CPAmerica International, Valley Leadership, Child Crisis Center board member, Toastmasters International and Baptist Hospitals and Health Systems board of directors. Wallace holds a Bachelor of Science in Economics from Loyola University and a Master of Science in Accounting from Arizona State University.

Holt is senior program administrator for AARP and is responsible for coordinating activities to support the various programs and events on a local, state and national level. She holds a Master’s degree in Organizational Management from University of Phoenix. Brenda has held various positions in non-profit organizations such as PetSmart Charities, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona, Highland Park Economic Development Corporation, and the Dept. of Justice Weed & Seed Program.
Heuser is Chief Strategy Officer at Taylor Morrison and has been with the company since 2004. His responsibilities include establishing strategic direction, business development and strategic initiatives; as well as portfolio management and evaluation of all contemplated investments and divestitures by way of chairing Taylor Morrison’s (NYSE: TMHC) Investment Committee He holds a bachelor’s degree in Finance from Illinois State University; as well as an M.B.A. He’s had the opportunity to participate in varied executive programs at Harvard Business School, The Wharton School, University of Chicago, Stanford University, M.I.T., Pepperdine University, and The Kellogg School. He’s an active member of ULI, ASU’s Real Estate Council, and contributes to the Boy Scouts of America.

About Foundation for Senior Living
FSL has a long history of helping families with issues such as health, hunger, aging, illness, loneliness and substandard housing.  3 million Baby Boomers will turn 65 every year for the next 20 years.  Our team is ready to help Arizonans manage the aging process by providing resources, education and support.  We’re committed to improving the quality of life for individuals and caregivers in Arizona. To learn more about our programs and services, visit: www.fsl.org.

Contact: Lindsay Hansen
PR Consultant
(480) 205-6195
lindsay@ldhconsulting.net

Who: All unpaid Caregivers in Arizona

What: A day for family caregivers, who are typically unpaid for their service, to learn about community resources that will simplify their daily lives while providing them the opportunity to put themselves first for an afternoon.

Where: FSL Caregiver House, located at 1201 E Thomas Road in Phoenix.

Why: In honor of National Family Caregiver Month, we’re hosting an inaugural Resource & Relaxation Retreat (R & R) on Friday, November 13, 2015.

When: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Did you know? Few people identify themselves as family caregivers, yet in Arizona alone 855,000 family caregivers provide care at an estimated value of $9 billion annually. Family caregivers accept their roles gladly but are generally unprepared for the financial and personal stresses they assume.

If you’d like to learn more or if your company would like to make a donation to the event, please contact Megan Word, marketing & communications manager at 602-285-0505×327 or email at Donations@FSL.org.

About Foundation for Senior Living (FSL)
FSL has a long history of helping families with issues such as health, hunger, aging, illness, loneliness and substandard housing.  3 million Baby Boomers will turn 65 every year for the next 20 years.  Our team is ready to help Arizonans manage the aging process by providing resources, education and support.  We’re committed to improving the quality of life for individuals and caregivers in Arizona. To learn more about our programs and services, visit: www.fsl.org.

For more information,
Lindsay Hansen, PR Consultant
480.205.6195 cell
lindsay@ldhconsulting.net

Phoenix, Ariz. (Aug. 27, 2015) – The Arizona Department of Housing has announced the recipients of the 2015 Brian Mickelsen Housing Hero Awards. The Awards recognize outstanding service by individuals and organizations for their commitment to numerous housing issues throughout the state.

Nominees in seven different categories were selected based on their efforts to support affordable housing for moderate and low-income Arizona families. The awards are named in honor of the outstanding public service exemplified by the late Brian Mickelsen, an original member of the Arizona Housing Finance Authority and former city manager for the Town of Cottonwood.

Foundation for Senior Living’s Flagstaff Senior Meadows was recognized with this year’s Exemplary Rural Multifamily Project Award. This award recognizes an outstanding multifamily rental project in rural Arizona that serves low to moderate income individuals, families or seniors.

“We’re honored to be recognized for our quality and affordable project,” said Steve Hastings, Chief of FSL Real Estate Services. “Flagstaff Senior Meadows is only possible because of great partners like the Arizona Department of Housing, Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco and Tofel Construction. It’s a property we’re very proud of and appreciate being recognized for our efforts to offer adorable housing to moderate and low income Arizonans.”

Flagstaff Senior Meadows consists of 60 affordable apartment units for low-income seniors 62 years and older. The unit mix includes 46 one-bedroom/one bath and 14 two-bedroom/one bath units. The projects Community Life Center is a central hub for on-site community services with beautiful mountainous views of Humphreys Peak.

Flagstaff Senior Meadows’ environmentally conscious universal design promotes the highest quality of life for Flagstaff seniors with incomes ranging from 40 percent to 60 percent of Area Median Income. The project allows seniors to “age in place” maintaining self-sufficiency and independence.

The awards were presented on Aug. 26 at the Arizona Biltmore Resort in Phoenix, Arizona at a luncheon during the 12th Annual Arizona Housing Forum. To learn more about all the recipients, visit: https://housing.az.gov/.

About the 2015 Housing Forum
Now in its twelfth year, the Arizona Housing Forum is the only statewide affordable housing conference in Arizona. It has become a venue for elected officials, policymakers, industry professionals, advocates, and community leaders from across the state and nation to address the significant challenges facing Arizona’s housing market. The theme of this year’s Forum is “Into the Light”. This year’s Forum will include keynotes by Arizona Department of Housing Director Michael Trailor; Arizona State University Research Professor Dr. Lee McPheters; and Recast City’s Illana Preuss.

About Foundation for Senior Living (FSL)
FSL has a long history of helping families with issues such as health, hunger, aging, illness, loneliness and substandard housing.  3 million Baby Boomers will turn 65 every year for the next 20 years.  Our team is ready to help Arizonans manage the aging process by providing resources, education and support.  We’re committed to improving the quality of life for individuals and caregivers in Arizona. To learn more about our programs and services, visit: www.fsl.org.

Contact: Lindsay Hansen
PR Consultant
(480) 205-6195
lindsay@ldhconsulting.net

PHOENIX, Ariz. (Aug. 26, 2015)…The Foundation for Senior Living (FSL) is pleased to announce they have started construction on the new Highland Square Senior Apartments in Cottonwood. They broke ground on the 60 unit senior community located at 299 W. Mingus Avenue (approximately the South East Corner of Mingus Avenue and Candy Lane) on Aug. 20. The new senior apartments will be clean, quiet, energy efficient and provide healthy living to all residents.

“We have been working together with the Council and community on this development for years,” said Tom Egan, president and CEO of FSL. “It brings together the best of green construction materials, innovation and energy efficiency with affordable rental rates. All sixty income eligible residents will pay just 30% of their income for housing. We could not be more pleased.”

The structure includes 50 one bedroom and 10 two bedroom apartment homes contained in an “L” shaped building design. The one bedroom units are 737 square feet in size and the two bedrooms are 950 square feet. The units will have nine foot ceilings, walk‐in closets, and all appliances will have designer enhanced finish. The two bedroom units will have two baths with a split master design. Each unit will have a patio or deck with storage included. The building will have a fire sprinkler system and emergency alarm and lighting systems. The common areas will include administrative offices, social areas, community kitchen, multi‐purpose room, community meeting room, community laundry on each floor and office space/work room for supportive services providers. Elevators in the entry area will serve the second and third floors.
The project will focus on sustainability and meet various system and material uses including water efficiency (low flow unit fixtures), improved U value roof and wall systems, Energy Star appliances, lighting and windows. HVAC will utilize a heat pump split system (minimum SEER rating of 14) with heating units mounted in the hallway plenum of the units and the condenser mounted on the roof.

“We’re very excited about this project,” said Steve Hastings, Chief of FSL Real Estate Services. “It’s the last new construction RD project in the country to receive subsidies for all 60 units. From an environmental perspective we’ve designed it to be very sustainable. The project will not have any materials with VOC’s or Volatile Organic Chemicals and the exterior walls will have sprayed in green insulation. Highland Square will have an innovative Fujitzu Split HVAC managed system that senses excess heat and cold wherever it exists and redistributes the conditioned air without using any energy. It’s going to be a beautiful property and we look forward to residents moving in and enjoying their new home.”

FSL is partnering with Campbell‐Hogue & Associates, Enterprise, American Express, Arizona Department of Housing, Johnson Bank, Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago, USDA and the City of Cottonwood on this project. Expected completion is Aug. 2016.

About Foundation for Senior Living (FSL)
FSL has a long history of helping families with issues such as health, hunger, aging, illness, loneliness and substandard housing. 3 million Baby Boomers will turn 65 every year for the next 20 years. Our team is ready to help Arizonans manage the aging process by providing resources, education and support. We’re committed to improving the quality of life for individuals and caregivers in Arizona. To learn more about our programs and services, visit: www.fsl.org.

Contact: Lindsay Hansen
PR Consultant
(480) 205‐6195
lindsay@ldhconsulting.net

PHOENIX, Ariz. (July 27, 2015)…The Foundation for Senior Living is pleased to announce Mitchell Moore has joined the organization as Chief Administrative Officer.

As Chief Administrative Officer, Moore will supervise and provide oversight to the areas of Finance, IT, and Human Resources. He will be responsible for all matters related to processes, policies, procedures and financial management.

Moore brings over two decades of financial, operational and IT management, and experience to FSL. Previous experience includes leadership positions in aerospace and transportation industries including Chief Administrative Officer at Advanced Training Systems International and Corporate Controller at Superstition Trailers LLC .

He is involved in the community, where he enjoys volunteering his time as a Flinn Fellow of the Arizona Center for Civic Leadership and as a Board Director for Educare Arizona. He dedicates time to the Arizona Department of Education Task Force for Educator Recruitment and Retention as well as to Phoenix Suns Charities 88, American Youth Soccer Organization, and the East Valley Partnership.

About Foundation for Senior Living
FSL has a long history of helping families with issues such as health, hunger, aging, illness, loneliness and substandard housing.  3 million Baby Boomers will turn 65 every year for the next 20 years.  Our team is ready to help Arizonans manage the aging process by providing resources, education and support.  We’re committed to improving the quality of life for individuals and caregivers in Arizona. To learn more about our programs and services, visit: www.fsl.org.

Contact: Lindsay Hansen
PR Consultant
(480) 205-6195
lindsay@ldhconsulting.net

Phoenix, AZ, February 20, 2015 – Foundation for Senior Living (FSL) is looking to fill nearly 50 part-time and full-time positions at an employment fair on March 11th. Positions include nursing, physical therapy, nursing assistants, drivers, service technicians, program assistants, and more. For a complete list of available positions, please visit http://jobs.fsl.org/.
This hiring event will be held on Wednesday, March 11, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at FSL’s corporate office located at 1201 East Thomas Road in Phoenix. For more information on FSL’s employment fair, please visit www.fsl.org/news.
Same day interviews will be available for many of the open positions.
About FSL
Foundation for Senior Living is a local, private non-profit organization, offering the personalized and caring services for the elderly and adults with disabilities and their caregivers. Since 1974, FSL has been improving the quality of life for individuals and families in Arizona, especially the most vulnerable members of the community, by helping them face issues of aging, ability, housing, illness and isolation. Each year, FSL assists tens of thousands of individuals without regard to race, religion, or economic status. For more information on Foundation for Senior Living programs and services, visit www.fsl.org or call 602- 285-1800.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION:
Megan Word
FSL Marketing and Outreach Coordinator
602-285-1800 x327
mword@fsl.org

About FSL
Foundation for Senior Living is one of the largest, private non-profit organizations in Arizona, offering the most personalized and caring services for the elderly and adults with disabilities. For nearly 40 years, FSL has improved the quality of life for individuals and families in Arizona, especially the most vulnerable members of our community, by helping them face issues of ability, aging, housing, illness and isolation. Each year, FSL assists tens of thousands of individuals without regard to race, religion, or economic status. For more information on Foundation for Senior Living programs and services, visit www.fsl.org or call (602) 285-1800.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION:
Megan Word
FSL Marketing and Outreach Coordinator
602-285-1800 x327
mword@fsl.org

Phoenix, AZ, December 30, 2014 – On January 5th, Foundation for Senior Living (FSL) will welcome a new President and CEO – Tom Egan. Tom will be responsible for guiding the agency through the challenges of a rapidly changing environment for the design and delivery of human services, especially in the wake of healthcare reform and restructuring of government funding at all levels.
Tom was previously the President and CEO of Esperança, an international health organization based in Phoenix. In that role, Tom was responsible for fundraising and directing complex programs including oversight for health and development projects, including a volunteer surgical program in more than 6 countries around the world, including the United States.
Tom entered the non-profit industry in 1995, joining Cleveland Healthcare for the Homeless. Prior to joining Esperança, Tom also held positions of increasing responsibility at Catholic Charities Community Services Diocese of Phoenix, where he worked for 12 years overseeing a wide variety of service programs.
“I am proud to join the team at FSL and further our vision to provide a caring community that promotes the well-being of all people, protects their dignity, celebrates their achievements and encourages their independence. There are 10,000 baby boomers turning 65 every day and that number will continue to grow over the coming decade. This will put a strain on the already limited services that are available for our poor and vulnerable seniors. My thought has always been when you’ve got big problems, like public health and poverty, none of those can be solved by one individual or one organization,” said Egan. “It takes a strong, collaborative relationship. People have to come together to tackle these big issues.”
About FSL
Foundation for Senior Living is one of the largest, private non-profit organizations in Arizona, offering the most personalized and caring services for the elderly and adults with disabilities. For nearly 40 years, FSL has improved the quality of life for individuals and families in Arizona, especially the most vulnerable members of our community, by helping them face issues of ability, aging, housing, illness and isolation. Each year, FSL assists tens of thousands of individuals without regard to race, religion, or economic status. For more information on Foundation for Senior Living programs and services, visit www.fsl.org or call (602) 285-1800.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION:
Megan Word
FSL Marketing and Outreach Coordinator
602-285-1800 x327
mword@fsl.org

Phoenix, AZ, December 30, 2014 – Guy Mikkelsen has been President and CEO of Foundation for Senior Living (FSL) since December 1985. At the end of this year, he will retire.
Marisue Garganta, Chair of the Board of Directors of FSL comments, “My colleague and friend, Guy Mikkelsen, has brought to FSL an unflagging commitment to human dignity and a rich culture of personalized holistic care. Under Guy’s leadership, FSL has launched a continuing series of pioneering programs that have consistently responded to the community’s most timely needs. His contributions will be missed.”
In 1974, FSL was established by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Phoenix as a private non-profit, dedicated to providing housing and social services to elders and individuals with disabilities. In 1985, Bishop O’Brien recruited Guy to lead FSL which was struggling to stay viable. Guy lifted FSL out of debt and during his 29 years as CEO has added $48M in assets along with a projected $58M in maturing low-income housing tax credit properties. More importantly, Guy has shaped a culture of competent and caring service with a remarkable record of launching innovative programs in advance of the general industry, including adult day health care, home health, behavioral health residential homes, adult foster care services, weatherization and solar energy and real estate. Throughout his career, Guy has applied his faith-filled passion for public policy and social justice to improving the lives of the most vulnerable within our community and building a sustainable platform for person-centered services.
“If there is an unmet community need, Guy will take it on; if there is a funding source, he will find it; if there is a workable service design, he will implement and continuously improve it,” explains Linda Martin, Vice President of FSL.
Guy began his career as a caseworker for Child Protective Services in Milwaukee County, Wisconsin. He quickly rose to become Chief of Staff to the Deputy Director of the Department of Public Welfare. In 1979, he joined Governor Babbitt’s administration as the Arizona Administrator of the Federal Block Grants for the Department of Economic Security. In this role, he established Arizona’s Long Term Care System (SAIL); he developed the Arizona Food Bank Association; he initiated the Refugee Resettlement Program; and he launched home and community based services for the vulnerable elderly with contracts throughout Arizona.
Guy has received five prestigious Lifetime Achievement Awards:
The Bishop Edward A. McCarthy Lifetime Achievement Award from the Diocese of Phoenix for serving the poor
The Alice R. Drought Lifetime Achievement Award from the Area Agency on Aging in Phoenix, Arizona
The Lifetime Achievement Award from the Arizona Coalition to End Homelessness
The Arizona Department of Housing Lifetime Achievement Award for creating outstanding quality in low income and affordable housing
The LBJ Lifetime Achievement Award from the Arizona Community Action Association
Although Guy intends to start a new adventure in retirement, experience new things and spend more time with his family, he will continue to give his time and talents to the Arizona community as a Board member of CASS, the City of Phoenix Human Services Commission, the Edward J. Ryle Fund, Capernaum Young Life Ministries and the Protecting Arizona Families Steering Committee (PAFCO).
Tom Egan, former President and CEO of Esperanca, will join the FSL family as President and CEO on January 5, 2015.
About FSL
Foundation for Senior Living is one of the largest, private non-profit organizations in Arizona, offering the most personalized and caring services for the elderly and adults with disabilities. For 40 years, FSL has improved the quality of life for individuals and families in Arizona, especially the most vulnerable members of our community, by helping them face issues of ability, aging, housing, illness and isolation. Each year, FSL assists tens of thousands of individuals without regard to race, religion, or economic status. For more information on Foundation for Senior Living programs and services, visit www.fsl.org or call (602) 285-1800.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION:
Megan Word
Marketing and Outreach Coordinator
602-285-1800 x327
mword@fsl.org

PHOENIX, ARIZ. – Thunderbirds Charities, the charitable giving arm of the Thunderbirds – hosts of the Waste Management Phoenix Open – recently donated $75,000 to Foundation for Senior Living (FSL) to purchase a wheelchair-accessible vehicle for the Adult Day Health Service Center in Phoenix.
FSL provides services to the elderly and persons with disabilities within the community that include Adult Day Services, Home Care, Home Health Services and Home Accessibility Modifications. These programs are designed to meet the social, health, psychological and spiritual needs of all seniors and persons with disabilities, promoting comprehensive home and community-based care without discrimination.
“We are so grateful to Thunderbirds Charities for the generous gift they have provided to us. Many of the Adult Day Health Service Center clients rely on transportation from FSL in order to attend the much needed program which provides socialization, therapeutic recreation, nursing supervision and a hot meal,” explained Guy Mikkelsen, President and CEO of FSL. “Community partners like The Thunderbirds enable FSL to provide services which are needed by so many in our Arizona community.”
Founded in Arizona in 1974, FSL is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for individuals and families, especially the most vulnerable members of our community, by offering personalized and caring services to address issues such as ability, aging, housing, illness and isolation. Each year, FSL assists tens of thousands of Arizonans without regard to race, religion, or economic status. For more information on FSL programs and services, visit www.fsl.org.
Thunderbirds Charities is a non-profit organization formed in 1986 to distribute monies raised through the Waste Management Phoenix Open golf tournament. The Thunderbirds Charities Board consists of 15 board members from varying professional backgrounds. The mission of Thunderbirds Charities is to assist children and families, help people in need and improve the quality of life in our communities. The organization’s giving is directed toward organizations based or with a significant presence in Arizona.
The Thunderbirds were founded in 1937 with the mission of promoting the Valley of the Sun through sports. The Thunderbirds consist of 55 “active” members and more than 250 “life” members. For more information on the Thunderbirds or the 2015 Waste Management Phoenix Open, visit www.wmphoenixopen.com. For more information on Thunderbirds Charities, visit www.thunderbirdscharities.org.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Rob Myers, 480-348-7540

Guy Mikkelsen, President and CEO, Receives Lifetime Achievement Award while Steve Hastings, Chief of Real Estate Services,
Receives Partner in Housing Award

Phoenix, AZ, October 4, 2013 – The Arizona Department of Housing (ADOH) recognized two Foundation for Senior Living (FSL) employees with impressive awards during its 2013 Arizona Housing Forum at Talking Stick Resort on Friday, September 20th. During a special luncheon, the 2013 Brian Mickelson Housing Hero Awards were presented to individuals and programs which demonstrate outstanding public service in each of seven categories. Steve Hastings, FSL Chief of Real Estate Services, received the Arthur Crozier Partner in Housing Award.

The Arthur Crozier Partner in Housing Award celebrates the single action or a lifetime of successes of an individual committed to improving the lives of families and the health of communities through recognition that decent, affordable housing is basic to our social fabric. Steve Hastings’ lifelong commitment to affordable housing, his proactive role as catalyst and partner to other not-for-profit organizations, as well as the sheer number of quality units produced under his leadership, epitomize this definition of “Partner in Housing.”

“Steve is dedicated to the mission of housing low-income people,” Paul Ludwick of Ludwick Consulting, and member of the Board of Directors for Save the Family, explained. “When Steve is part of the development team, he really is a part of the team. He remains a problem-solver throughout the project. He is actively involved in finding the money and works from the perspective that once a project is started, it is going to get finished. I am not sure anyone could ask for more in a Partner in Housing.”

Since joining FSL’s real estate team in 2003, Steve’s leadership has added 374 affordable housing units to FSL’s portfolio, allowing it to continue its affordable housing mission. In more recent years, Steve’s guidance and stewardship have also helped four other Arizona non-profits – Arizona Housing, Inc., Save the Family, Catholic Charities Community Services, and The Southwest Autism Research and Resource Center – meet their affordable housing goals. This selfless approach will provide an additional 207 units of permanent supportive housing to formerly homeless people, veterans, people with mental and physical disabilities and families. Within the next year, these individuals will enjoy beautiful, green, universally designed and affordable housing.

Additionally, ADOH presented it’s first-ever Lifetime Achievement Award to Guy Mikkelsen, FSL President and CEO. The ADOH Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes and celebrates the sustained work of individuals for their exceptional contributions, vision and unwavering commitment to promoting affordable housing in Arizona. Guy was recognized for his years of commitment and dedication to providing affordable housing and promoting quality of life for seniors, adults with disabilities, and their caregivers.

This most prestigious award was presented to Guy by Michael Trailor, ADOH Director, who said, “Guy was one of the first affordable housing leaders I met when I joined the department in 2009. I was impressed with him then and now say that he is one of the best men I have ever known.”

A video shown to honor Guy at the awards ceremony shared viewpoints from many of his peers, and they displayed the same common theme – Guy Mikkelsen is a visionary. And, according to Saundra Johnson, FSL Board Member, “Phoenix and the State of Arizona are very fortunate to have someone who is so compassionate, caring, intelligent and fun to work with.”

“He is just not a CEO in name only. He’s not a figurehead. He rolls up his sleeves and he does anything he asks any of us to do. He knows every single employee,” shared Judi Greene, Director of Housing, FSL.

The full video shown at the Housing Hero Awards ceremony can be viewed at: youtube.com/fslvideos.

FSL has been honored by ADOH with awards in previous years:
2012 – Exemplary Rural Multi-Family Project – FSL White Mountain Villas, Show Low, AZ
2011 – Exemplary Rural Multi-Family Project – FSL Yuma Senior Terraces, Yuma, AZ
2009 – Superior Sustainable Design – FSL Havasu Hills Apartment Homes, Lake Havasu City, AZ

About FSL
Foundation for Senior Living is one of the largest, private non-profit organizations in Arizona, offering the most personalized and caring services for the elderly and adults with disabilities. For nearly 40 years, FSL has improved the quality of life for individuals and families in Arizona, especially the most vulnerable members of our community, by helping them face issues of ability, aging, housing, illness and isolation. Each year, FSL assists tens of thousands of individuals without regard to race, religion, or economic status. For more information on Foundation for Senior Living programs and services, visit www.fsl.org or call (602) 285-1800.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION:
Megan Word
FSL Marketing and Outreach Coordinator
602-285-1800 x327
mword@fsl.org