To the editor:

It is exciting to see the interest in attracting and retaining retirees/seniors to Lawrence. This is a diverse community requiring multiple ways to meet the needs of folks currently living in Lawrence and wanting to remain here, as well as attracting new residents. Eastside Village Lawrence and Campus Village are two models designed to do just that. This letter gives a brief description of Eastside Village and its goals. It is hoped that Dennis Domer, who has been so supportive of our efforts, will be able to give more information about the Campus Village, the proposed intergenerational development that recently received some city funding, so Journal-World readers have a clear picture of each model.

Eastside Village’s mission is to enable seniors on the east side of Lawrence, including North Lawrence, to live safe, happy and full lives in their current homes. We will do this by becoming a one-stop referral service connecting seniors with reliable, low-cost, vetted service providers to supply transportation, home maintenance, technical support, social and cultural activities, and the companionship seniors need to live independently.

We are a group of working and retired professionals committed to bringing the nonprofit Village concept to Lawrence and appreciate the support received from many individuals and organizations. We welcome volunteers and supporters from any part of the city and hope there will be groups in other parts of the city wanting to start their own Village so we can work together. Additional information is available at eastsidevillagelawrence.org.