“We moved into our cottage in 2023 and quickly found everything we were looking for…”

When Susan and Marvin Kay, 76 and 78, respectively, relocated from Arkansas to Lions Gate in 2023, they weren’t just looking for a new home, they were looking for an active and engaging lifestyle. They found it in the Cottages at Lions Gate, where every day offers opportunities for connection, activity, and enrichment. “We couldn’t find a better place… we just couldn’t,” says Susan.

The Kays were drawn to Lions Gate for its unique combination of independent living and a true sense of community. “We didn’t want to be somewhere with nothing to do or no one to talk to,” Susan explains. “Here, there’s always something to look forward to: classes, lectures, outings, and friendly faces.”

They were also impressed by the warm welcome they received from current residents. “People came up to us during our tour, just to say how much they love living here,” Susan recalls. That spirit of community helped make their decision easy.

Their connection to the area came through Marvin’s sister, who lives in nearby Haddonfield and encouraged them to explore the Cherry Hill and Voorhees area. After visiting several senior living communities, Lions Gate stood out not just for its offerings, but for its people.

Now settled into their light-filled cottage, the Kays feel right at home. Marvin especially appreciates that “it has a garage!” while Susan happily notes that means “no clearing snow off the car in the winter.”

The flexibility of independent living is something they both value, but they’re far from sitting still. They participate in fitness classes, clubs, lectures, and outings. Marvin, a former college professor and lifelong learner, serves as president of the Environmental Committee, helping to enhance the campus through sustainability efforts and seasonal plantings. He’s also contributing chapters to academic publications with former colleagues.

Susan has embraced new hobbies, including learning mahjong and joining the book club. She enjoys outings to restaurants and shows on the Lions Gate bus, which, she notes with a smile, “drops us off right at our door.”

They’ve built a close-knit group of friends what Susan affectionately calls “a core group” with whom they dine, attend programs, and share life. That social connection has been one of the most meaningful parts of their Lions Gate experience.

One pleasant surprise has been the warmth and attentiveness of the staff. The Kays describe them as “approachable,” “sincere,” and “genuinely invested in residents’ well-being.” They especially appreciate Kim Clemons, Program Director for Independent Living, who they describe as “responsive and fantastic.”

Susan also notes something special about the community spirit: “Love still goes around here.” From new friendships to budding romances, she says there’s just something in the air, a spark that keeps things fun, light, and full of possibility.

The Kays look and feel younger than their years, something they attribute to the active and stimulating lifestyle they’ve embraced here. As Susan puts it, “We came looking for a place to live fully, and that’s exactly what we found. We’ve got it all here!”