Karen’s Story

A Second Family and a New Beginning

On a Thursday evening at the River Mill Senior apartment community in Watertown, Wisconsin, you’ll be greeted by the sounds of warm laughter and vibrant chatter as residents gather for a good time. Whether for birthdays, bingo, potlucks, or game nights, there is always something happening to bring people together.

For residents like Karen, living there has given her a second family and a new beginning.

Before she found her way to River Mill, she was in the midst of employment uncertainty and a looming retirement, all while desperately searching for an affordable home that would match her budget. In a twist of fate, she stumbled upon River Mill where there was an opening. Karen made the decision that day to move in and fell in love with her home.

As rental rates continue to increase in Wisconsin, there are fewer options available for older adults like Karen. Please make your best gift today to ensure that folks can live with dignity in retirement and beyond.

For older adults living on a fixed income, finding a home that meets their needs can be a challenge. The average household income of adults over 55 living at a CommonBond community is around $16,000. Our communities fill a vital need in giving older adults the stability that a home provides so they can find joy in the next chapter of their journey.

As a proud mother of three daughters, five grandchildren, and two great grandchildren, Karen feels fortunate to have a strong support system around her. She enjoys being able to see her loved ones regularly and having them over. It also brings comfort to her family knowing she lives in a vibrant community that offers her the companionship and connection she needs.

“We are all here for each other, it’s truly like a sisterhood,” says Karen. “The staff and residents always have your back, and I know that I’m not alone. We are all fighting through the same battles to some degree, and it’s comforting to have a community.”

CommonBond is proud to provide housing and services so that residents like Karen can continue living in an affordable home they love and cherish – a place where family, neighbors, and friends come together.