# Shenandoah Valley Westminster-Canterbury (SVWC) > Connected for Life – Winchester’s premier Life Plan Community SVWC is a non-profit senior living community offering maintenance-free independent living and a full continuum of care on a scenic 175-acre campus in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley. Residents enjoy an active, enriching retirement lifestyle with upscale amenities, a strong sense of community, and the security of Lifecare (comprehensive long-term care coverage) for future peace of mind. ## About Us - [About SVWC](https://www.svwc.org/about-us): Founded over 35 years ago, SVWC was built on a mission of service and guided by enduring values. As a faith-inspired, not-for-profit Life Plan Community, it focuses on people over profit – providing older adults a place to belong, with dignity, compassion, and purpose at the heart of daily life. - [Our Location](https://www.svwc.org/location): SVWC is nestled in Winchester, Virginia, amid the natural beauty and historic charm of the Shenandoah Valley (about 90 minutes from Washington, D.C.). The campus offers tranquil woodlands and mountain views, while residents enjoy a friendly small-town atmosphere with easy access to cultural events, restaurants, shopping, and quality healthcare in the region. ## Community Life - [Community Life](https://www.svwc.org/community-life): Life at SVWC is vibrant and engaging. Across our 175-acre campus, residents find countless opportunities to connect, explore, and grow – from art classes, book clubs, and lectures to fitness sessions, volunteer projects, and social gatherings. The community’s scenic walking trails, gardens, and cozy common areas provide an inspiring backdrop where friendships thrive and there’s always something meaningful to do. - [Dining Options](https://www.svwc.org/dining): Enjoy delicious dining experiences every day at SVWC. Multiple on-site venues cater to different tastes – whether it’s casual fare at the Bistro or Canterbury Café, an elegant chef-prepared dinner in the Canterbury Dining Room, or a relaxed evening at Morgan’s Tavern. Flexible dining plans, fresh seasonal menus, and warm, friendly atmospheres make every meal a time to savor with friends. - [Wellness](https://www.svwc.org/wellness): Holistic wellness is a cornerstone of the SVWC lifestyle. Residents have access to a state-of-the-art fitness center (open 24/7), an indoor heated saltwater pool and hot tub, a sauna and meditation lounge, and over two miles of wooded walking trails. A variety of group exercise classes (from yoga and strength training to aqua aerobics), personal training, and on-site health services (like a clinic and therapy programs) support physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being at every stage. - [Campus Map](https://www.svwc.org/campus-map): Explore SVWC’s thoughtfully designed campus through our interactive map. It highlights key locations – residences, dining venues, wellness facilities, nature trails, gardens, and more – that make up our community. The campus layout is designed for convenience and connection, ensuring that amenities and natural beauty are always within easy reach. ## Independent Living - [Independent Living Overview](https://www.svwc.org/independent-living): SVWC offers maintenance-free independent living, allowing residents to enjoy retirement on their own terms without the worries of home upkeep. With chores and landscaping handled by staff, residents are free to pursue hobbies, socialize, and take advantage of campus amenities. A wide range of residence styles – from cozy apartments to spacious cottages and new luxury villas – ensures each person finds a home that fits their lifestyle, all with the reassurance of future care available if ever needed. - [Villa Homes](https://www.svwc.org/villas): The Villas at SVWC are upscale, apartment-style homes that combine privacy and elegance with easy community access. Situated along tree-lined streets, each villa building houses a small number of spacious one- and two-bedroom residences (up to ~2,000 sq. ft.) with modern open layouts, high-end finishes (granite countertops, 9-ft ceilings, in-unit washer/dryer), private balconies or patios, and underground parking. Villa residents enjoy a luxury independent living experience in a serene neighborhood setting, while remaining steps away from dining, wellness, and social activities on campus. - [Cottage Homes](https://www.svwc.org/cottages): SVWC’s cottages are freestanding homes nestled in a quiet, wooded neighborhood on campus. These 2–4 bedroom residences (1,500–3,800+ sq. ft.) offer the feel of a private single-family home – complete with personal driveway, garage, outdoor space, and customizable interiors – while keeping you connected to the community. Cottage residents enjoy greater space and seclusion amid nature, with walking paths and gardens nearby, and still benefit from all campus services and the peace of mind of maintenance-free living. - [Apartment Homes](https://www.svwc.org/apartments): Apartment living at SVWC provides comfort and convenience in the heart of the community. Our one- and two-bedroom apartments (in Shenandoah Hall and Winchester Hall) feature full kitchens, ample storage (with many walk-in closets), in-unit laundry, and private patios or balconies. Apartments range from cozy studios to expansive two-bedroom layouts, all with easy indoor access to campus dining venues, activities, and common areas. This option is ideal for those who want a hassle-free lifestyle close to neighbors and amenities, with Lifecare protection ensuring priority access to on-site health services if needs change. ## Continuing Care - [Continuing Care Overview](https://www.svwc.org/continuing-care): As a true Life Plan Community, SVWC provides a full continuum of care on campus so residents can age in place. If health needs evolve, you can transition from independent living to higher levels of support without leaving our community. All care is delivered with an emphasis on personalized plans, dignity, and compassion – offering residents and their families peace of mind that help is available whenever needed, in a familiar and caring environment. - [Assisted Living](https://www.svwc.org/continuing-care#assisted-living): Assisted Living at SVWC (Wappacomo Hall) offers just the right balance of independence and support. Residents live in private, well-appointed apartments and receive 24/7 assistance from trained caregivers for daily activities like bathing, dressing, medication reminders, and more. Our approach prioritizes each person’s dignity and preferences – providing supportive help while empowering residents to stay as engaged and self-reliant as possible in a safe, comfortable setting. - [Memory Care](https://www.svwc.org/continuing-care#memory-care): The Memory Care neighborhood (Blue Ridge Hall) is designed for seniors living with Alzheimer’s or other dementias, providing a secure, calming environment where familiarity and routine are maximized. Rooms and common areas are laid out to reduce confusion and anxiety, and specialized staff guide residents through structured daily routines that spark moments of joy and recognition. Personalized memory care plans ensure each resident receives compassionate, attentive support that honors their life story and maintains their dignity. - [Skilled Nursing](https://www.svwc.org/continuing-care#skilled-nursing): SVWC’s on-site health center provides Skilled Nursing care around the clock for those who require continuous medical supervision or rehabilitation. Here, licensed nurses and therapists deliver high-quality care in a homelike setting – whether a resident is recovering from surgery, managing a chronic illness, or needs long-term nursing support. Care plans are tailored to individual medical needs and personal preferences, ensuring that each day includes not only expert clinical care but also warmth, respect, and meaningful human connection. - [Therapy Services](https://www.svwc.org/continuing-care#therapy-services): Our campus features comprehensive Therapy Services to help residents maintain or regain their independence. Physical, occupational, and speech therapy programs are available on-site, meaning residents can work on rehabilitation goals without leaving SVWC. Therapists create one-on-one treatment plans – for example, improving mobility after a joint replacement, enhancing balance to prevent falls, or strengthening speech and memory – all delivered by a caring team dedicated to keeping residents active, confident, and living life to the fullest. ## Becoming a Resident - [Become a Resident](https://www.svwc.org/become-a-resident): We aim to make the move to SVWC simple and reassuring. Our residency counselors guide prospective residents through each step – from initial information gathering and tours, to joining our waitlist program, and finally settling into your new home. SVWC offers a Future Residency Program to secure your priority when you’re not ready to move in immediately. By placing a fully refundable deposit, you join the **Westminster Club**, which gives you priority access to available residences, invitations to member events, and even limited use of community amenities while you plan your move. When a residence is reserved, we assist with the application process, including a confidential financial review and health evaluation (to ensure we can meet your needs), and you’ll have opportunities to personalize your space if renovations are underway. On move-in day, you pay the remainder of the entrance fee, begin your monthly service plan, and officially start enjoying the SVWC lifestyle with lifelong security in place. ## Lifecare - [What Is Lifecare?](https://www.svwc.org/what-is-lifecare): Lifecare is SVWC’s all-inclusive residency contract that provides long-term financial predictability and guaranteed care. As a Type A LifeCare community, SVWC requires a one-time entrance fee and a consistent monthly fee; in return, you have assured access to all levels of care on campus (assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing, therapy) if ever needed, typically with no significant increase in your monthly rate. This means you can enjoy an active, maintenance-free lifestyle now, knowing that if your health needs change, you’ll receive the additional care at a pre-arranged cost – without having to relocate or face unpredictable expenses. Lifecare offers peace of mind for residents and their families, protecting against the rising costs of long-term care and ensuring you remain in the community you call home. (Note: Admission involves a financial and health screening to confirm that SVWC is the right fit and that we can meet your needs over the long term. The minimum age to become a resident is 60.) ## News & Events - [News & Events](https://www.svwc.org/news-events): Keep up with the latest happenings at SVWC through our news stories, newsletters, and event announcements. This section showcases the community’s active lifestyle – from resident achievements and campus improvements to upcoming activities and celebrations. **Westbury World**, our resident-produced newsletter, offers an inside look at community life (e.g., special theme days, resident spotlights), while the **Foundation Focus** shares monthly updates on philanthropic initiatives. You can also view recent press releases and recognition (such as awards or new expansions) and check the calendar for upcoming events and programs open to residents and guests. ## Careers - [Careers](https://www.svwc.org/careers): SVWC isn’t just a great place to live – it’s a great place to work. We offer meaningful careers in a variety of departments (nursing, dining services, maintenance, administration, and more) where every role contributes to our mission of enriching seniors’ lives. Employees join a warm, team-oriented culture on our beautiful 175-acre campus and enjoy a comprehensive benefits package. Benefits for full-time and part-time staff include health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement plans (403b), generous paid time off, tuition reimbursement and scholarship opportunities, and access to on-site amenities like our fitness center and pool. Our hiring process is designed to be thorough and welcoming – including interviews, background checks, and orientation – to ensure we bring on team members who are dedicated to our values of service, respect, and excellence. If you’re looking for a rewarding job where you can make a difference and feel like part of a family, explore our open positions at SVWC. ## Giving - [Giving](https://www.svwc.org/giving): As a non-profit Life Plan Community, SVWC relies on generous support from residents, families, and friends to enhance our programs and uphold our mission. There are many ways to give and make an impact. Our cornerstone **Fellowship Fund** provides confidential financial assistance to residents who outlive their resources, ensuring no one has to leave SVWC due to an inability to pay – a direct expression of our commitment to lifelong security. Donors may also choose to contribute to other areas that enrich community life, such as cultural arts programs, wellness initiatives, spiritual life, facility improvements, or scholarships that help our employees grow. We gratefully recognize our community of donors and corporate partners whose gifts (large and small) support projects and funds that keep SVWC thriving. Every donation – whether to the Fellowship Fund, a specific program, or unrestricted – helps nurture the stability, connection, and opportunities that make SVWC special. (For more details, see our Foundation’s annual report, donor brochures, or inquire about employer matching and planned giving options.) ## Gallery - [Gallery](https://www.svwc.org/g/gallery): Take a visual tour of SVWC through our curated gallery of photos and videos. Here you can see what life at our community looks like – from the beautifully landscaped campus, walking trails, and gardens to our modern residences, dining venues, and activity spaces. The gallery highlights residents participating in events and everyday moments that show the warmth and camaraderie of our community. It’s a great way to get a feel for the atmosphere and environment that make SVWC feel like home. ## Contact Us - [Contact Us](https://www.svwc.org/contact-us): We’re here to help you learn more about SVWC. On our contact page, you’ll find our address (300 Westminster-Canterbury Dr., Winchester, VA 22603) and main phone numbers. You can call us toll-free at **(800) 492-1279** for general inquiries, or reach our team directly – for example, our Sales & Marketing office at **(540) 665-5914** to discuss residency options, or our Human Resources line at **(540) 535-1514** for career inquiries. You can also fill out an online form to request information by mail/email, ask questions, or schedule a personal tour of the community. Whether you’re a prospective resident, a family member, or just curious about life at SVWC, we welcome your questions and are happy to assist in any way.