February 14, 2025 —
The month of February brings a welcome opportunity to break through the bleak midwinter and celebrate love in all its many forms.
With the help of our happy residents, we’ve identified 10 top reasons to love the Lathrop life!
1. Full Participation NOW
Both our Northampton and Easthampton campuses are for residents who are fully independent, requiring no assistance with activities of daily living. They’ve come here to take full advantage of all that Lathrop has to offer, from activities and amenities to educational and other opportunities within the outside community. For those who need some assistance, our Enhanced Living model at The Inn provides daily support from compassionate professionals.
2. A Friendly, Caring Community
Lathrop places a premium on building lasting relationships with fellow residents and team members. While inclusion and belonging are particularly timely today, these Quaker-inspired principles have formed the foundation of life at Lathrop from the very beginning.
“Cold is the day, but warm are the hearts in this caring, wonderful community!” – Dolores, Easthampton resident
“I’m so fortunate to live in this caring community, where I know there are neighbors and staff who will look after me.” – Susan, Easthampton resident
“I love being around the friendly and competent staff who know who I am and support me in so many ways.” – Anne, Inn resident
3. Wellness First
Healthy aging is a holistic process that nurtures not only the body, but also the mind and spirit. Residents invest in their continued independence by engaging in Lathrop’s wide variety of wellness programs, fitness classes, fresh and sustainable dining options and meaningful activities, both on and off campus. Our emphasis on the physical, mental, social and emotional aspects of health and wellness benefits one and all.
4. Lifelong Learning
Lathrop is situated near the “Five Colleges” of Hampshire County, includingAmherst, Hampshire, Mt. Holyoke, Smith and University of Massachusetts Amherst. Eager to continue learning, residents have invaluable access to myriad courses, first-rate libraries and visiting experts in several fields. In addition to learning, residents also share their own knowledge and experience, primarily through the Five College Learning in Retirement program in which they lead peer workshops and seminars on a variety of topics.
5. Natural Beauty in the Pioneer Valley
Nestled amidst 140 acres of mature trees, brook-lined walking trails and thriving community gardens, the Lathrop campuses are natural oases unto themselves. If that weren’t enough, the greater Pioneer Valley boasts breathtaking mountain vistas, the Connecticut River, rolling hills, bluffs, meadows and woodlands that are home to local wildlife. For residents’ domesticated friends, Lathrop features its own dog park!
“I love that I see a bobcat in my own backyard, hear the wood thrush singing behind my house, watch birds enjoy the berries on my spicebush and hear the owls call at dusk.” – Barbara, Northampton resident
“I love looking out at the moon and stars from the windows at Lathrop.” – Anne
6. City Life Nearby
Life at Lathrop offers the best of both worlds. Just a short distance from the rural peace of campus is downtown Northampton, featuring great restaurants, shops, arts and events. Less than 200 miles away is the excitement of New York City, while historic Boston is even closer.
7. Welcoming Diversity
More than just a buzzword, diversity is a way of life at Lathrop. We believe that we are made stronger when everyone is included and all are free to be their authentic selves. That’s why we’ve made it a priority to foster compassion, acceptance, trust and belonging in a safe space comfortable for all people, no matter who they are, where they come from, what they believe ,whom they love or how they identify.
8. Practicing Sustainability
Lathrop residents are not mere admirers of the natural beauty that surrounds them, they are protectors of it, too. Our Land Conservation Committee is led by conscientious residents who are passionate about limiting humans’ impact on the environment. They have initiated several measures to reduce our carbon footprint, including installing electric vehicle chargers, implementing community-wide recycling and composting programs, invasive plant removal and caring for the natural features of the Connecticut River Valley, to name just a few. Residents are also active in the Fitzgerald Lake Conservation Area adjacent to our property.
“I love that Lathrop residents have contributed thousands of hours and thousands of dollars to protect native habitats for the creatures with whom we share this special land.” –Barbara
9. Making a Social Impact
A fulfilling life is a purposeful life, and residents put that philosophy into tangible action. Activities and initiatives at Lathrop are largely governed by residents themselves, several of whom are also making a difference in the outside community. They are zealous stewards of the earth, volunteers for local non-profit organizations, mentors of school students, supporters of local arts groups, peace movements and other meaningful pursuits. Service to others is a responsibility they take to heart – and hands!
10. Living the Quaker Way
Lathrop, and indeed all Kendal communities, was founded upon Quaker values, emphasizing respect for the individual, community and a commitment to service. Rooted in principles like equality, simplicity, and social responsibility, these values ensure that each resident is treated with dignity, compassion and respect. Our focus on collaboration and inclusivity fosters an environment where everyone is encouraged to thrive and contribute to the collective well-being.
See for yourself all there is to love about Lathrop!