To be a part of someone’s vision is an amazing thing, but to help make someone’s vision a reality, is astounding. Anderson & Associates is doing just this, by providing site design, survey, and landscape design services for Warm Hearth Village’s new Active Adult Community, WoodsEdge, and a new 15,000 square-foot Village Center.

The groundbreaking ceremony was held on Monday, December 11 for the new development that will be located in Warm Hearth Village in Blacksburg, Virginia. It boasts 91 new homes for seniors, ages 55 and older, in a community setting that is maintenance free, without the headaches most homeowners eventually encounter. WoodsEdge is designed to meet the changing needs of individuals as they grow older. All the homes are single-story, ADA compliant, and feature lever door handles and faucets – which cause less stress on joints. Not only will residents have the creature comforts of home, but they’ll be exposed to the beautiful scenery that Warm Hearth has to offer. The community sits on 220 acres, and is nestled in the exquisite woodlands of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

The new Village Center will feature many facilities, including an indoor swimming pool, fitness facilities, and a bistro, and will be opened to all residents of Warm Hearth Village – which brings us back to our vision.

Warm Hearth’s founder, Wybe Kroontje lived an extraordinary life. He was born in the Netherlands, and spent time as a Prisoner of War in World War II. After his people were liberated from the Nazis by American soldiers, he and his wife, Marietje traveled to the United States and were granted U.S. citizenship.

They arrived in the U.S. with very little, but were able to live the American dream. Wybe put himself through school and became a Professor of Agronomy at Virginia Tech. He became a successful, well-respected member of the Blacksburg community. He was always grateful for the opportunities America had afforded him, and wanted to give something back; so he came up with a vision.

That vision was Warm Hearth Village. Wybe was a natural marketer and planner, and was able to raise enough funds to begin building his dream. His vision is best summed up by Warm Hearth’s Mission Statement; "enriching the lives of seniors of all socioeconomic backgrounds through a wide range of choices in housing, services, and care."

He created a 100-year plan for Warm Hearth Village. WoodsEdge, and the new Village Center is what Wybe had planned for year 32. Wybe Koontje passed away in 2002, but his dream lives on. Ferne Mochella, President and CEO of Warm Hearth Village, as well as Warm Hearth’s Board of Directors and dedicated staff, continue to follow Kroontje’s plan, and continue making life more fulfilling for all seniors, regardless of social or economic backgrounds. &