As a resident-driven community from its inception, Otterbein Granville is proud to have grown over the past 20 years while remaining true to its founding principles. Hear from our founding residents in the video below to get an inside perspective on what we believe makes our community so special — past, present, and future.
For Residents, By Residents
Founding resident Betty H. recalls the spirit of community and activity that was part of Otterbein Granville from the very beginning.
“There weren’t very many of us at first,” she said. “We all hung together. We’d eat together, we’d walk together, and we started forming committees. And all of the committees we have now, many of them were started by a little group like us. We like to be involved…we’re not ready to hit the rocking chair yet.”
In fact, Otterbein Granville has never had an employed resident activity director — activities are completely dictated by the residents themselves, and that was part of the plan from the very beginning.
This design supports a range of individual lifestyles, promotes community interaction, and optimizes mobility for people with a variety of physical capabilities. Many residents are lifelong learners who audit classes; attend concerts, plays and lectures; and volunteer throughout central Ohio in a variety of settings.
A Philosophy of Care
For many residents, the idea of living in a life plan community that offers care throughout the aging process brings peace of mind.
“What made me want to come in the first place was the philosophy of taking care of us until our last days,” said Jane H. “It appealed to me — having a safety net.”
To that end, our community Health Center provides a person-centered, coordinated health program offering a full spectrum of care on our campus. We’re also Medicare-licensed with private skilled nursing accommodations and assisted living apartments.
Relationships That Create a Community
All of the founding residents noted that the close-knit relationships and ability to stay socially active were a draw for them and continue to be an important part of the Otterbein Granville culture.
“What we’re doing here is about relationships. It’s necessary as you age, to keep relationships, to have good relationships with people. That adds to the quality of your life and the length of your life. That’s what this is all about…and I attest to it every morning when I get up. I say, ‘thank you, thank you, thank you,’” Jane said.
With a deep commitment to welcoming all people, regardless of background or beliefs, residents and partners alike at Otterbein Granville experience a family-like atmosphere.
“While we pride ourselves on our amazing amenities, it truly is the people who make the difference. And it’s the people who live here who help us collaboratively work together to decide what’s important to the residents now, and also what will be important to the residents another 20 years from now,” said Derik Kroeze, executive director of Otterbein Granville.
Experience Otterbein Granville for Yourself
The best way to learn more about Otterbein Granville is to visit for yourself. Experience our close-knit, active community, nestled in the hills of central Ohio but with close access to Columbus and big-city amenities. Whether you enjoy quiet time outdoors, furthering your learning with nearby Denison University, or volunteering for a cause you care about, you’ll find there’s something for everyone here.
