Natalie Eckert is a familiar figure at Castle Peak Senior Life and Rehabilitation in Eagle. During any visit there, you’re likely to glimpse her bright, contagious smile. As director of life enrichment, Eckert’s dedicated work gives joy to many residents.
Life enrichment goals include fulfilling the desires of individual residents — delivering a favorite snack or special magazine or colorful blanket. Margaret Collett, born and raised in Gypsum, moved to Castle Peak in May 2018 from Parker. Two adult children, her grandchildren and great grandchildren live nearby and visit often. What else does she like about living there? “No cooking, no cleaning, the residents, staff and caregivers, AND the chocolate chip cookies!”
Eckert and her team also create and sustain an inspiring group atmosphere at Castle Peak with activities and special events. They publish a
monthly activities calendar which includes morning stretching, no-bake club, book club, dewey dabbles ceramics, sing alongs, bingo, Wordle and movie night. Spiritual services are available through the Lutheran and St. Mary’s Catholic churches. Puzzle table is open 24-7!
‘This is Their Home’
The Castle Peak community houses four “neighborhoods” — assisted living, skilled nursing/long-term care, memory care and rehabilitation. Life enrichment programs serve each — the activities and amenities offered vary according to the respective needs and abilities of individuals.
“The people whom we serve … many moved here, built their careers here, raised their families here, retired here … and now when they need us the most in an important time of their life, we’re here to help them,” shares Shelly Cornish, executive director. “I really want the community to know that we’re a nonprofit. Sometimes that gets missed and it’s important. We’re truly here for and because of the community and the people who hav lived here. This is their home.”
Many life enrichment opportunities exist for “mobile” folks including shopping trips, lunch outings and scenic excursions to Sylvan Lake, Glenwood Canyon or Vail’s Betty Ford Alpine Gardens.
Eckert notes that hosting in-house events involving the community is most practical for most residents.
A petting zoo brings in Highland cows, alpacas, mini-horses and the baby goats wearing diapers to assure laughter all around.
Pet therapy uplifts everyone’s spirits. Any gentle dog (no need for official certificate) is welcome to snuggle with residents and staff … recently six labrador puppies delighted the crowd.
Each September, The Walk to End Alzheimer’s route passes by Castle Peak. Eckert promotes event publicity and participation.
On Halloween, Brush Creek elementary students trick-or-treat in a costume parade.
During the holidays, Castle Peak is decked with twinkling lights, a splendid Christmas tree and festive decorations. The Vail Art Guild helps bake cookies and craft ornaments. Local student groups and Dickens’ Carolers provide entertainment.
On Valentine’s Day, there’s a traditional tea with gourmet brews and sweets.
The annual fall talent show has be come tradition and is a highlight. Eckert hires a closing band and the staff performs. Some residents join in, too. The Vail Valley Partnership mixer is another favorite. Any social event with music and party food engages folks who otherwise might spend those hours alone.
Community Companionship
Currently about 25 to 30 active community volunteers contribute to Castle Peak. It involves a basic background check, then assisting with group activities to meet residents.
Photos courtesy of Castle Peak Senior Center.
“It helps to have new faces come in and freshen up the place,” Eckert says. “I always need volunteers who play piano or guitar to provide background music for dining ambiance or to put on a show. Also, I’m looking for certified athletic trainers. Our activities are mostly chair based, but I want to expand exercise programs, yoga, weight lifting, etc.”
Especially rewarding are one-on-one friendships that develop with outsiders who are willing just to sit, listen and lend an ear to someone seeking companionship.
“I started as a volunteer in 2017, then soon joined staff,” Eckert reflects. “I missed my grandparents and just wanted to be around seniors.”
Synergy with community is key to Castle Peak’s success.
“We were built on donations from this community,” Cornish emphasizes. “Recently I’ve been visiting local town council meetings to hear questions about our history, our services and more. It’s fun to share. So many folks don’t know about us. A well-rounded community needs everything from day care to senior care and we provide an essential piece. We also assist with housing for up to 20 of our 80 employees. Many others are locals from Eagle and Gypsum.”
Blanche Mauro grew up in the Valley and moved back to Castle Peak from her Colorado Springs home in 2020. Blanche celebrates 100 years in 2024 and is the oldest resident. Her son, Tony, and family represent more local generations. Another Vail legend with local family, Widge Ferguson, came to Castle Peak in 2019 and was to be turning 100 in 2025. Ferguson passed away peacefully in December 2024.
So what does Mauro like most about Castle Peak? “Everything! I like the cold weather. They people are pretty nice. The workers are good. So is the food.” Her eyes twinkle. “I’d like to see more Italian spaghetti and chili!”
Eckert values her Castle Peak experience this way …
“It’s such a rewarding job, because you can learn the story of these residents, their experiences, their wisdom. They come here from all different walks of life. It makes me realize that time does fly by and you have to live each day to the fullest, do what makes you happy and brings you joy … and no matter at what age, find those things that really inspire and uplift you. That’s what we do here with life enrichment.”