Our story is one of strivings, setbacks and, ultimately, success. Where we come from says a considerable amount about who we are.

A Bequest

Originally formed prior to 1960, Episcopal Retirement Communities was reactivated in 1975 with seed money from a bequest by Ms. Helen Young of Tacoma. Ms. Young always tried to use her wealth where it would do the most good, and her living trust agreement specified that the money go to the Diocese of Olympia Episcopal Fund for the Aging. The broad language gave ERC considerable latitude in developing housing and services for the elderly of the Diocese of Olympia.

A Formalized Plan

The next twenty years saw land deals go sour. In the spring of 1990, Mr. David P. Steele, experienced in the development and management of retirement housing, was named Executive Director and got ERC back on track.

In that same year, Gerontological Services Inc. was contracted for advice on marketing prospects, and in 1992, formalized plans were made to construct and operate Canterbury Manor (link) in Bremerton, WA. Canterbury Manor opened its doors August of ‘94 and has provided affordable housing and services for over 17 years.

A Legacy

Continuing with its objective to provide church-affiliated, competitively-priced retirement communities throughout the Pacific Northwest, ERC set up an assisted living community in Port Angeles, WA. St. Andrew’s Place (link) achieved 95% occupancy four months ahead of schedule in 1998. At present, St. Andrew’s Place accepts Medicaid and is the only non-profit assisted living community on the North Olympic Peninsula to do so.

In 2009, ERC saw Kitsap Peninsula’s need for a senior adult day center. So came Canterbury Care Center (link), a day program to give family caregivers a break from the physical demands and stress of providing round-the-clock care.

Today, we look forward to bringing a way of life to Western Washington so that all might experience the ERC difference.