In a retirement landscape dominated by large corporate chains and rising costs, Arbourside Court offers something refreshingly different: affordable, high-quality, independent living grounded in compassion and community.
Located in a quiet Surrey neighbourhood, Arbourside is home to 92 spacious condo-style suites, and has served seniors for several decades. The residence operates under the Society for Christian Care of the Elderly (SCCE), a B.C. nonprofit founded in 1970 by Norman S. Jones, who was inspired by the needs of his own family and community.
“Norman didn’t believe in corporate models – he believed in serving with heart,” says Tania Miller, General Manager of Operations. “Today, his children carry on the mission he began – a legacy of community focused care.”
As a registered not-for-profit – not subsidized by government programs – Arbourside often finds creative ways to assist residents in need. Its commitment to affordability is matched by a commitment to transparency: pricing is posted openly online, something Miller notes is still uncommon in the industry.
“We’re not profit-driven. I don’t follow rigid corporate templates,” she adds. “Success here isn’t about margins – it’s about the meaningful, lasting impact we make in the lives of our residents and our surrounding community.”
And that impact is hard to miss. Residents enjoy a wide range of services: three nutritious meals a day, weekly housekeeping, in-room emergency systems, a 24-hour in-house responder, concierge service, all utilities included and an epic social calendar. Amenities rival those of large retirement chains, all while preserving the intimate, people-first approach of a family-run home.
“We’re pet-friendly, people-focused and proud to be a vibrant, independent living community,” Miller says. “The residents are our secret ingredient. They’re what make this place shine.”
Staff retention is another point of pride, with many team members having served the Arbourside community for 10 to 25 years. “That kind of continuity makes a big difference in the atmosphere,” Miller says. “Our residents are known by name, not room number. It’s a community built on kindness and mutual care.”
Arbourside has also cultivated a surprisingly strong global presence online.
“We encourage the public to peek into retirement living in real time,” Miller explains. “Our residents and staff create fantastic content that garners millions of views worldwide – especially our senior dance parties on Facebook! Families living far away can stay connected through pictures and videos of their loved ones.”
With the cost of groceries, housing, and basic services continuing to rise, the need for accessible, stable housing for seniors has never been more urgent.
“Many older adults live on fixed incomes and are being priced out of the market,” Miller says. “We’re doing everything we can to hold steady and offer a safe, joyful and dignified home that seniors deserve.”
To learn more, visit arbourside.com or call 604-597-6644.