When Glenn Hanke and his wife Diana began dreaming of a retirement living option that balanced independence with support, they weren’t looking to build an ordinary residence. Inspired by a successful community-run care home in their hometown of Beechy, Sask., and armed with research from across Western Canada, the couple envisioned something unique: a place where seniors could live actively, with choices tailored to their lifestyles.
That vision became reality in 2003 with the opening of Riverview Village Estates in Swift Current. "We didn't want to build just a personal care home," says Hanke, now general manager. "We wanted a place with ownership options and the kinds of services that enrich seniors' lives. Our faith in God helped us get through many hurdles we encountered and kept us going”.
Community-driven and nonprofit
Unlike many retirement facilities, Riverview Village Estates is nonprofit and locally managed. A volunteer board of directors includes professionals from healthcare, finance, law, and construction, along with two resident representatives. This community-first model helps keep costs reasonable while ensuring services stay responsive and relevant.
"We've never had any government money in the project," Hanke explains. "It started with local investment, and it continues with local commitment."
He adds that it’s important to recognize the original members of the board who shared the vision – Gord Hagen, Tim Marcus, and Barb Fraser – who were instrumental in the start of Riverview. “They had the interest of the seniors of Southwest Saskatchewan at heart and poured their time and effort in to make it happen,” says Hanke.
A growing village of possibilities
Since its opening, Riverview Village Estates has expanded three times. Today, it includes 163 suites ranging from one- and two-bedroom options to assisted living units. Residents enjoy underground parking, private balconies, and storage space – all part of a life lease model that supports long-term stability.
The amenities are equally expansive. A great room with a nine-screen TV, putting greens, shuffleboard and billiards, craft and sewing rooms, a gym with a golf simulator, and beautifully landscaped gardens create a vibrant, engaging environment.
"We have people who are more active now than they were before they moved in," Hanke notes. "But we also respect everyone’s privacy and comfort level."
Choices that matter
What sets Riverview apart, Hanke says, is the emphasis on choice. "We don’t force anyone to come to meals or activities. But when they want to participate, the options are here."
Residents can cook in their own fully equipped suites or enjoy three daily meals from the in-house kitchen which is open 365 days a year. Programming includes everything from bingo and crib nights to live music and educational sessions with pharmacists and healthcare professionals. A full-time activities director ensures there's always something happening.
On-site services include a salon, reflexology and massage therapy, and biweekly lab visits. "It's one-stop living," Hanke says.
Looking ahead
With over 80 people on a waiting list, the demand for Riverview's model is clear. While there are no concrete plans yet, Hanke says there’s room for modest expansion eastward that wouldn't affect residents' scenic views.
For Hanke, the true reward lies in creating a space that offers comfort, dignity, and the freedom to live well. "My wife was the dreamer, the visionary," he says. "I'm the steady hand who helps keep things running. Together, we built something we’d want to live in ourselves – and that's what makes the difference."
Riverview Village Estates continues to stand as a testament to what a community can create when care, respect, and forward-thinking come together under one roof.
To learn more or to get in touch, call (306) 773-8146, email rview@sasktel.net, or visit the website at riverviewvillageestates.com.