Written by: Jacqueline Arellano
Windy Hill’s communities are built on acts of kindness: a ride to the store, a helping hand when someone is struggling, or a warm welcome when a new resident arrives. For many families and individuals, these moments are what turn neighbors into friends, and a neighborhood into a home.
We are honored to highlight several residents whose actions reflect the spirit of our Windy hill communities: longtime resident Kevin Hill, Levis Hill House resident Shirley Rhoads, and new Levis residents Tracy and Micheal Grigsby.
Kevin Hill: A Neighbor Who Shows Up for Others
For many who live in the Cottages, Kevin Hill is not only a familiar face, he is someone who can be relied on. When Cottages resident Christine Mazur could no longer drive, Kevin began helping her get to the places she needed to go. Whether she needed a ride or stop at Safeway on his way home from work, Kevin always made himself available.
Even without a car of his own, Kevin has never hesitated to help. When he needs to go somewhere, Christine lends him her car and the two complete errands together. What began as a practical solution has grown into a genuine friendship! Christine speaks warmly about the impact Kevin has had on her life.
“He has been a great neighbor. Always willing to drive me where I need to go and willing to stop at Safeway on his way home from work for me etc. I can no longer drive, and he has no car. When he needs to go somewhere we take my car and do his errands too. It has worked out to be an excellent arrangement and into a very nice friendship! He has no idea how much he is appreciated.”
Shirley Rhoads: A Neighbor You Can Count On
At Levis Hill House, resident Shirley Rhoads demonstrates the importance of community and neighborly support. When one of her neighbors was hospitalized for an extended period, Shirley volunteered to care for their dog. She made sure the dog was fed and checked on until the neighbor safely returned home. Shirely’s kindness offered comfort during a difficult time and embodied the sense of support the defines Windy Hill communities.
Tracy and Michael Grigsby: Finding Their Place at Windy Hill
In August of this year, Tracy and Michael Grigsby moved into Levis Hill House. From the beginning, they felt welcomed and supported by both staff and residents. Throughout the move-in process, Rebecca McBride, Property Manager for Quantum Real Estate management. Rebecca helped them organize paperwork and continued to advocate for them until they secured their apartment. The Grigsby’s described her as kind, patient and determined.
After settling in, they continued to receive support from the Windy Hill Resident Services team. Michelle Lacaze, Director of Resident Services, and resident services coordinators Maddie and Antonio helped them adjust to their new environment and made sure they felt connected to the community.
Beyond the staff, it was the kindness of residents that left the strongest impression. Neighbors greeted them and helped them feel at home. The Grigsby’s shared their gratitude in a note.
“We would first like to thank Rebecca McBride who worked so hard for us helping us get all the paperwork together and never giving up. She was so nice, helpful patient and determined to get us an apartment. The office staff, Michelle, Madison and Antonio, are some of the nicest and most helpful people you will ever meet. Thank You to all the residents who were so welcoming and friendly and for all the kindness they have shown us. We are more than grateful to be a part of this community.”
For Michael and Tracy, Windy Hill has quickly become more than a place to live. It is a community where kindness is shared, and neighbors look out for one another.
Neighbors Who Make Windy Hill Home
The stories of Kevin Hill, Shirley Rhoads, and Tracy and Michael Grigsby show how care is expressed in day-to-day moments. Neighbors who look out for one another, share their time, and offer support when it is needed most, help foster an environment like Windy Hill. It is more than affordable housing; they make it a community.
