Social Groups Make it Easy for Neighbors to Connect at Woodleigh Chase

Sal Bosco started the Men's Coffee Club at Woodleigh Chase, an Erickson Senior Living community in Fairfax, Va., a month after moving in.

Now, every Wednesday morning, Sal and about 40 of his neighbors head to the Emerson Square lounge to enjoy coffee, conversation, and companionship.

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"Men tend to build social connections through work. When you retire, that goes away," he explains. "It's a casual group of guys. No one criticizes your outfit or whether you shaved. It's come as you are!"

Since welcoming its first residents two years ago, the community's list of clubs has grown exponentially. From social hangouts like Men's Coffee Club to education, music, and wellness groups, there's a club for nearly every interest at Woodleigh Chase.

Instant success

Sal was pleasantly surprised by the positive response to Men's Coffee Club. The first week, more than two dozen men showed up.

"The club offers social connections we don't get in other clubs because there's no agenda," says Sal.

"People find shared interests. Some talk about football, hockey, bocce, or poker. Others discover that they worked at the same place, served in the same branch of the military, or their kids went to the same schools."

Another social group that has quickly grown in popularity is Women's Wine Wednesday. Every Wednesday, up to 50 women gather at Emerson Square lounge from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. to sip a glass and socialize.

"You can buy a glass of wine at the pub or bring your own wine. And if you don't drink, you can just enjoy a nonalcoholic beverage," says resident Sheila Klein, who coleads the group.

Sheila moved to Woodleigh Chase from Fairfax, Va., in March 2024 and coleader Ruth Perlstein followed from Annandale, Va., in April 2024. Now, these two Emerson Square neighbors welcome women from across campus to join them.

"We encourage everyone to join us!" says Ruth.

A warm community

Operations Associate Deja Logan notes that groups like Men's Coffee Club and Women's Wine Wednesday make it easy for new residents to meet neighbors and form friendships.

"Since they meet weekly, new residents can gradually settle in and build friendships," says Logan. "Plus, no special skills or interests are required, making these clubs accessible to all residents."

Ruth agrees, saying, "It's a great way for new residents to meet people casually. New friendships emerge, and it's a relaxing way to spend the afternoon."

Logan adds, "They're inclusive and very friendly, which has also helped shape Woodleigh Chase's welcoming atmosphere."

The variety of clubs and activities at Woodleigh Chase spans a range of hobbies and interests, including genealogy, line dancing, and gardening--just to name a few.

And if Woodleigh Chase doesn't already have a club for your particular interest, it's easy to start your own with help from staff!

In addition to clubs and activities, residents can find volunteer opportunities on campus and in the local Fairfax community.

Time to connect

As residents get involved, they discover ongoing opportunities to engage with neighbors and form lasting relationships.

"The resident book clubs, faith groups, performing arts ensembles, and sports clubs have also grown quickly," says Logan. "All of these clubs promote a strong sense of connection, which residents love."

"Before moving to Woodleigh Chase, we were busy and didn't always know our neighbors. Now, I've reconnected and have become friends with people from my previous neighborhood," says Ruth. "I swim, joined book clubs, and I'm interested in art."

She adds, "Everyone smiles here. It's friendly, and there are so many ways to get involved. Moving to Woodleigh Chase has really brought us closer to our friends, and we feel good about this new chapter in our lives."

To learn more about senior living at this vibrant community, request your free brochure to get the scoop on amenities, floor plans, and so much more.

By Danielle Rexrode