Senior Community Leader, Lance Williams: Fostering Joy & Connection

Imagine a community where warmth, genuine care, and vibrant living intertwine seamlessly with the guidance of a compassionate senior community leader. That’s the picture painted by Lance Williams, Executive Director of Robson Reserve at Sun Lakes, when asked about his role. Lance’s journey, marked by a lifelong connection to senior care, reveals a senior community leader deeply invested in creating a fulfilling experience for residents and team members alike.

Lance’s story began in childhood when he accompanied his mother to senior living communities where she worked. “I remember visiting senior living residents at the age of 4 with my mother”, Lance revealed. This early exposure sparked a passion that has fueled his 15-year career, with the last 5.5 years dedicated to the Robson Senior Living Communities. His motivation is clear when it comes to being Executive Director and being a senior community leader: to ensure residents receive the highest quality care and that the team is equally supported.

From Witnessing Care to Leading with Compassion

“I knew I wanted to work in senior living when I witnessed the care provided to residents by caregivers. I knew I wanted to support their work and ensure residents received the best care possible”, Lance shared. His desire to support those caregivers and enhance resident well-being has been the driving force behind his leadership.

The Strength of Unity During Challenging Times

Before his role as senior community leader, Lance oversaw the care side of the community. The COVID-19 pandemic presented a formidable challenge, but for Lance, it became a testament to the resilience of his team. “Navigating COVID as a Health Services Administrator, and leading our team was the most difficult challenge but produced the most rewarding experience, watching our team come together to encourage each other and care for our residents,” he recalled. Through this experience, Lance and the team’s dedication to Robson Reserve showed the power of unity and compassion in the face of adversity.

Creating Spaces for Connection & Joy

At Robson Reserve, creating a sense of community for the residents, family members, and staff is paramount. Lance’s favorite amenity, the newly remodeled dining room, bar, and pizza oven, serves as a central gathering place within the Independent Living building. He also highlighted “Premier Nights” as a favorite resident event, where residents can dress up, enjoy fine dining, and listen to live music performances. The community also holds outdoor concerts for residents and guests, which is another favorite resident event, “I enjoy interacting with residents as they get dressed up for a multi-course meal or dance at an outdoor concert event, continuing to live life to its fullest,” he said. These events further promote the “Actively Independent” lifestyle that Robson Reserve at Sun Lakes has to offer for residents.

A Faith-Driven Leader

Lance’s leadership is rooted in his faith, which motivates him to build a strong and caring community as the senior community leader. “My faith is my primary motivator, to be a person who cares for others by building a strong community,” he explained. This commitment to service permeates his approach to leadership.

Advice for Future Senior Living Professionals

For those considering a career in senior living, Lance’s advice is to “choose a community that encourages and empowers you to provide the best possible leadership for your team and the best possible care for your residents.” In discussing this with him, he emphasizes the importance of finding a supportive environment where one can thrive in their career.

Robson Reserve at Sun Lakes: A Place to Call Home

Lance’s message regarding the Chandler senior community is a testament to a lifestyle that consistently surpasses preconceived notions of what retirement living is. His enthusiastic proclamation, “So many residents wish they moved here sooner!” resonates with a genuine sense of fulfillment shared by those who have chosen to call Robson Reserve home. Hear from Robson Reserve at Sun Lakes residents about their experience at the community.

When asked to describe Robson Reserve in a single word, Lance chose “family”. Robson Reserve at Sun Lakes strives to create a community that fosters friendship and connection, where residents are not merely neighbors but integral parts of a larger, supportive network. Within this nurturing environment, residents have a place where shared experiences, mutual respect for one another and genuine connection are the cornerstones of the day to day.

Discover the Robson Reserve at Sun Lakes Difference

Experience luxurious senior retirement living from the moment you arrive at Robson Reserve at Sun Lakes. Discover resort-style amenities, modern apartments, and comprehensive services for full-service independent living, assisted living and memory care. Our community offers ideal retirement living to seniors from Sun Lakes, Chandler, Gilbert, and the surrounding East Valley. Schedule a tour today to experience our community, amenities and personalized care.