Love Where You Live – Reason #27 – The Ivy

I started the Love Where You Live series because I believe that when we truly love where we live, everything about our lives expands. Our joy grows. Our health improves. Our sense of belonging deepens. Loving where we live isn’t just about the physical place—though that matters—it’s about the people, the rhythms of daily life, and the connections that ground us. It’s about intentionally choosing to notice what is beautiful, meaningful, and life-giving right where we are. Studies consistently show that people who feel connected to their community experience lower stress, greater well-being, and a stronger sense of purpose.

For me, one of the greatest contributors to this sense of community is The Ivy, a senior living residence in Hawaii Kai that stands as a warm, welcoming heartbeat in our neighborhood.

Nestled in the center of our neighborhood, The Ivy is more than a beautifully designed senior living facility—it is a place where connection is nurtured, stories are shared, and generations come together. With its inviting gardens, thoughtfully planned common spaces, and compassionate staff, The Ivy offers its residents dignity, comfort, and a sense of true belonging. It creates environments where our seniors can thrive physically, emotionally, and socially.

But its impact flows far beyond the building itself. The Ivy enhances the neighborhood by fostering relationships, encouraging intergenerational connection, and giving us daily reminders of what community truly looks like.

The Belattis: A Story That Reflects the Spirit of The Ivy

Among the many wonderful residents who call The Ivy home, two of my favorites are David and Michaeline Belatti. David, a retired Marine, embodies strength, humility, and service—traits that continue to shine brightly in his daily interactions. It was an honor to sell their home and help them transition into this next chapter of life, one filled with comfort, support, and community.

Today, seeing David and Michaeline thriving at The Ivy brings me so much joy. They’ve embraced their new community with the same warmth and openness that have always defined them, and in return, The Ivy has embraced them right back. Their story is a testament to how a place like The Ivy doesn’t just offer housing—it offers a home, a village, a sense of peace.

Strengthening Community, Strengthening Lives

Having The Ivy in our neighborhood enriches life for every single one of us. It reminds us that strong communities are built when all generations are valued and included. It shows us the beauty of caring for one another, the importance of connection, and the joy that comes from living in a place where people matter.

In loving where we live, we don’t just create a pleasant environment—we cultivate health, happiness, and wholeness. And with places like The Ivy, and neighbors like David and Michaeline, we are constantly inspired to love our community more deeply.

Because when we love where we live, we don’t just live—we thrive.