Sunnyside Gardens

Sunnyside Gardens got its start in 1988 when owner Jason Chartier was working with his own parents as they moved in and out of different hospitals and skilled nursing facilities. I wanted something different, says Jason. More like a hotel and less like a medical institution. That is when I decided to build Sunnyside for the needs of my own mom. In... the late 1980s there were very few assisted living communities in the United States and Jason was embark- ing into new territory. We were among the first dementia units in the State and I think they didnt quite know what to do with us, he laughs. We werent sure what services to provide, so as we grew, we added things like a beauty parlor, medication rooms, fountains and things like that. In the twenty-plus years weve been running this place, we have really learned how to care for this population, says Jason. Today, Sunnyside Gardens is still family-owned and operated. Jasons daughter (Jackie) has taken on more of an active role in the company. She serves on the Board of Directors, implements remodeling and upgrades and she is the Community Relations Director. When Jackie imple-ments anything, she first asks herself, What is best for the resident? Her proactive approach includes listening to the residents and their families on what they would like to see in our community. "I initially had a lot of reservations and misgivings about my sisters placement in an assisted living facility, my apprehension was quickly allayed when I saw how truly wonderful and loving her caretakers responded to her needs and desires." M.K.Read More