Wyndemere in Wheaton, Illinois, is a Life Plan Community with a rich history built on a commitment to excellence, innovation, and community. The history of Wyndemere reflects decades of growth, care, and thoughtful development, establishing it as a trusted and welcoming place for seniors.
Over the years, the community has continually evolved to meet the changing needs of its residents, always prioritizing connection, engagement, and meaningful experiences. From its earliest days to the present, Wyndemere has remained a place where seniors can thrive, find purpose, and enjoy a vibrant, fulfilling lifestyle.
The History of Wyndemere
Originally developed under the ownership of Central DuPage Hospital (CDH), Wyndemere began serving seniors in 1993. The community was founded on a simple but powerful belief: that older adults deserve an environment that supports their independence while providing peace of mind for the future. In March 2010, the community was acquired by LCS, one of the nation’s leading and most respected senior living management companies. LCS has continued to guide Wyndemere with the same dedication and vision that shaped its earliest years.
An exciting new chapter began in February 2025 when JustLiving Communities acquired Wyndemere. LCS will continue to manage day-to-day operations, ensuring the same exceptional level of service and care residents have come to expect. This new partnership represents a shared commitment to Wyndemere’s legacy—and to the bright future that lies ahead.
Over three decades, Wyndemere has continually evolved to meet the changing needs of residents while maintaining its timeless sense of warmth and community. One of the most transformative moments came with the opening of the South Building on October 1, 2020—right in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Despite the challenges of the time, excitement among prospective residents was overwhelming. The addition brought 33 new apartment homes, a stunning indoor swimming pool, The Garden Room, and The Wright Place bar and lounge. It filled immediately, demonstrating Wyndemere’s enduring reputation as a place where people truly want to live.
Leadership with Heart and Vision
Wyndemere’s success has always been rooted in strong leadership and an unwavering focus on people. Over the years, four dedicated Executive Directors have guided the community with passion and purpose. Each one has made meaningful contributions—honoring the community’s traditions while steering it toward growth, modernization, and excellence.
Their leadership has ensured that Wyndemere continues to be a place where residents feel empowered to shape their environment. Whether through open communication, thoughtful improvements or a shared commitment to quality, the Wyndemere leadership team has fostered a culture of trust and collaboration that stands out in the senior living world.
Commitment to Sustainability and Innovation
From the very beginning, Wyndemere has been forward-thinking. The community’s commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship is one of its proudest achievements. Wyndemere became the first senior living community in the state to earn an Earth Flag for its recycling program—an initiative spearheaded by resident Joanne East, who has called Wyndemere home for nearly three decades and is now approaching her 100th birthday. Her efforts reflect the true spirit of the community: resident-driven, environmentally conscious, and deeply caring.
This focus on innovation extends beyond green initiatives. Wyndemere continually invests in enhancing amenities, wellness programming, and technology to improve quality of life. It’s a place that values both tradition and progress—honoring what makes it special while embracing new ideas that keep it vibrant and relevant.
Culture, Community, and Connection
Wyndemere is defined by a culture that is warm, welcoming, and full of life. Much of that spirit is sustained through the dedication of the Resident Council, a group that plays a vital role in maintaining the community’s strong sense of unity and engagement.
Leaders like resident Jim Snodgrass and Director of Activities and Programming Kelly Berger exemplify this commitment, fostering connection through events, enrichment opportunities, and resident-led initiatives.
Key elements that make Wyndemere’s culture unique include:
- Warm and Welcoming Environment: Residents thrive in a vibrant, inclusive atmosphere where they feel valued, supported, and engaged in community life.
- Resident Council Leadership: The Resident Council helps guide community initiatives, programs, and events, ensuring residents have a voice in shaping life at Wyndemere.
- Wyndebar Tradition: A beloved Friday night social hour that has been a highlight for over 30 years. Founded by residents Stan and Mari Lou Allured—whose carved likenesses still grace the bar—Wyndebar began as a creative response to Wheaton once being a dry town.
- Resident Engagement: Residents contributed their own beverages and shared laughter, stories, and camaraderie, building strong bonds that continue today.
- Evolution of the Tradition: Over time, Wyndebar has grown into a weekly celebration complete with music, sing-alongs, and milestones celebrated among friends. Led today by choir director Mari Lou, it is more than a happy hour—it is a cherished tradition that embodies the community spirit and joy unique to Wyndemere.
Strength in Partnership and Purpose
Wyndemere’s connection to the broader Wheaton and DuPage County communities has always been strong. Through meaningful partnerships and charitable efforts, the community continues to give back in ways that make a lasting difference. One of the most inspiring examples is the Endowment Fund for the Arts, established with the DuPage Foundation. This initiative supports arts programming and cultural enrichment, both within Wyndemere and throughout the local area, ensuring residents and neighbors alike can experience the transformative power of the arts.
These partnerships reflect Wyndemere’s deep sense of responsibility—not only to its residents but also to the greater community it calls home. It’s a philosophy built on generosity, engagement, and the belief that life is richer when we support one another.
Looking Ahead
As Wyndemere moves forward, its mission remains clear: to elevate the resident experience while staying true to its roots of quality, connection, and care. The community continues to enhance its offerings—whether through fine dining, wellness programs or cultural events—ensuring every resident can live life to the fullest.
What truly sets Wyndemere apart, however, isn’t just its beautiful surroundings or impressive amenities—it’s the people who bring it to life. The residents, staff, and leadership team together create a culture that is authentic, inclusive, and full of heart. It’s a place where new friendships are formed every day, where laughter echoes through shared spaces, and where the legacy of community is carried forward with pride.
For more than 30 years, Wyndemere has stood as a beacon for those seeking a vibrant, purposeful, and elevated senior living experience. With its enduring traditions, forward-thinking leadership, and strong local partnerships, Wyndemere continues to inspire confidence, connection, and joy among all who call it home.
This legacy of care, community, and innovation is just the beginning—at Wyndemere, the story continues to unfold every day.
Discover Wyndemere
Wyndemere offers a vibrant, welcoming community where residents can thrive, connect, and enjoy life to the fullest. To learn more about Wyndemere, please contact us and set up an experience today.
