By: Justine Smith, Communications Director

There’s a special kind of magic at Ridgeview Commons.

For Karen Beck, it lives in the comfort of her first “true home”—a  thoughtfully decorated space in the Rochester Apartment Treatment Program where healing finally feels within reach.

As a self-described forever seeker, Karen’s journey has taken her everywhere from Pittsford, New York to Europe, always in pursuit of growth and a more meaningful life. Her search led her to Ridgeview Commons after leaving what she describes as a “toxic and disempowering” experience in a low-income assisted living community. Since arriving in June, she says the difference has been transformational.

“Ridgeview is a place of love, peace and wellness. I just know I’m in good hands and I’m beyond grateful to live in such a stable and supportive environment. I have my freedom and my life back.”

That stability is reinforced by the respect and compassion of DePaul’s dedicated team of employees and her welcoming neighbors. She’s eager to build lasting friendships and make progress toward her employment goals through DePaul’s WorkGuide program.

A graduate of Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School  who once taught philosophy, Karen dreams of changing the world as an educator. With a passion for nature, reading and writing, she finds immense joy in continually learning and evolving, including nurturing her spiritual practice at the nearby Christ the King Church and becoming more involved in her local community.

To others on a similar path, Karen shares the following reminders:

“An open mind and heart are the key. I believe we are here to walk each other home. Remember that love always wins and you are never alone.”

Watch a tour of her new home here:

 

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Learn more about Ridgeview Commons and explore similar mental health residential programs across Western New York.