1. Overview

Penney Retirement Community (PRC) is a well-established Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) located at 3495 Hoffman Street, Penney Farms, FL 32079. Founded with a Christian mission, this 501©(3) not-for-profit organization has evolved into a vibrant, service-oriented community that welcomes seniors from diverse backgrounds. The community is uniquely positioned to offer a comprehensive continuum of care while maintaining a strong focus on purposeful living and volunteer service.

2. Services Offered

2.1 Independent Living

While not explicitly marketed as “independent living,” PRC offers numerous housing options for active, self-sufficient seniors:

• Private homes and duplexes
• Apartments with varying floor plans
• Ability to furnish and decorate according to personal preferences

Independent living residents enjoy maintenance-free living with access to all community amenities and services, while maintaining their autonomy and lifestyle choices.

2.2 Assisted Living

PRC operates two dedicated assisted living facilities:

• Beyer House: Provides comfortable apartments with 24-hour supervision and personalized care
• Penmor Place: Offers similar supportive services in a homelike setting

Both facilities provide:

• Assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs)
• Housekeeping and personal laundry services
• Medication management
• 24-hour supervision
• Flexible dining options (either in the assisted living home or in the main dining room)

The assisted living facilities notably include larger two-room apartments designed for couples who wish to remain together even when only one partner requires assisted living services.

2.3 Memory Care

Hagen Memory Care offers specialized care for residents with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease:

• Staff specifically trained in compassionate, person-centered memory care
• Secure environment both indoors and in the outdoor courtyard
• Thoughtful layout designed to reduce confusion
• Home-like atmosphere that maintains dignity
• Central campus location that facilitates frequent visits from family and friends
• Day care and extended respite options for caregivers

2.4 Skilled Nursing Care

The Pavilion for Health Care provides comprehensive skilled nursing services:

• 50-bed facility designed with resident input
• Short-term rehabilitation services
• Long-term 24-hour nursing care
• State-of-the-art care combined with individualized attention
• Ten-time recipient of the prestigious Governor’s Gold Seal Award for Excellence in Long-Term Care
• 5-star rated by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services

2.5 Specialized Care Services

Beyond the standard care levels, PRC offers specialized healthcare services:

• Wellness Clinic: Partners with four major health systems to provide on-campus primary care and specialty services
• Nurse Responder Program: Provides 24/7 in-person emergency and non-emergency services
• Rehabilitation Services: Offers physical, occupational, and speech therapy in multiple settings (home, outpatient gym, or inpatient care)
• Respite Care: Short-term options for caregivers who need a break
• Aging in Place Support: Flexible programs that accommodate couples with differing health needs

3. Amenities and Facilities

Penney Retirement Community offers an impressive array of amenities designed to enhance residents’ quality of life:

3.1 Recreational Facilities

• Indoor, solar-heated, Olympic-size swimming pool
• Executive 9-hole golf course
• Tennis courts
• Fitness and Wellness Center
• Jacuzzi
• Walking paths and outdoor spaces

3.2 Community Spaces

• Library
• Game room
• Coffee shop
• Arts and crafts facilities
• Woodworking shop
• Community garden

3.3 Convenience Services

• On-campus U.S. Post Office
• Transportation services to medical appointments and local shopping areas
• On-site banking services
• Beauty salon/barbershop

3.4 Specialized Workshops and Services

• Bicycle and golf cart repairs
• Clock and watch repairs
• Copy center
• Electrical/electronic repairs
• Furniture repairs
• Media services
• Metal working
• Painting/refinishing
• Picture framing
• Upholstery
• Woodworking

4. Daily Activities and Programs

Penney Retirement Community places a strong emphasis on active engagement and purposeful living through a variety of activities:

4.1 Physical Wellness

• Swimming programs in the Olympic-sized pool
• Exercise classes in the fitness center
• Golf activities on the 9-hole course
• Tennis matches on the community courts
• Walking clubs

4.2 Social Engagement

• Community gatherings and events
• Holiday celebrations
• Coffee shop socials
• Dining hall events

4.3 Educational Opportunities

• Educational lectures and classes
• Extensive library resources
• Computer facilities

4.4 Spiritual Life

• Church services and activities
• Bible study groups
• Faith-based volunteer opportunities

4.5 Volunteer Programs

• Notable “Personal Energy Transportation” (PET) program where residents build mobility carts for people worldwide who cannot walk
• Multiple service opportunities both within the community and beyond

4.6 Creative Arts

• Arts and crafts workshops
• Woodworking projects
• Musical opportunities

5. Testimonials from Residents and Families

Penney Retirement Community has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from residents and their families:

“We have many activities and volunteer programs. There is a gigantic heated pool, exercise room and classes, coffee shop, educational classes, huge library, computer shop, arts and crafts shop, woodworking shop, 9 hole golf course, golf and bicycle repair shop, post office, hair salon and very good food from our large dining room. My husband and I have lived here for 3 years and think that this is the best place in the world to live.” – Courts, Resident

“After visiting several retirement communities in the Southeast, we evaluated the pros and cons of each. Retirees have many choices… We felt led in a different direction: to live in a neighborhood where we could flourish, engage, and be encouraged to serve and enjoy our senior years within an organic, caring community.” – Gary, Resident

“When my husband and I discovered Penney Retirement Community during the summer of 2016, we had no plans to relocate. We had already retired and moved into our retirement home (so we thought). We stopped by the community while we were on vacation in St. Augustine and looked just for curiosity, not knowing we would fall in love with the place, sell our home and move again. We are so happy that we did! The community and the residents are unique. It feels like friends are everywhere!” – Betsy, Resident

“My husband stayed at Penney Retirement Community and it was excellent. I would highly recommend it… The staff were popping in quite frequently to see how he was and giving him his medicine or helping him to the bathroom… The place is very clean, and the pavilion is relatively new and very modern. It’s a community all by itself.” – Family Member of a Resident

6. Pricing Information

While specific pricing information is not publicly displayed on their website, Penney Retirement Community is known for being more affordable than many comparable facilities:

6.1 Fee Structure

• One-time entrance fee: Amount varies based on housing option
• Monthly maintenance fee: Covers ongoing services and community amenities

According to resident testimonials, PRC offers significant value compared to other retirement communities:

“You will probably be surprised at how affordable it is to live here compared to living in your current home or other retirement communities.” – PRC FAQ section

“We chose Penney Retirements Community. It appealed to us because it was close to our daughter, and money wise, they were like 25% to 35% less because it was a non-profit corporation.” – Resident testimonial

6.2 Financial Considerations

• Residents retain possession and control of their assets (no asset transfer required)
• Financial verification process ensures residents can afford at least five years of service fees
• Financial assistance may be available for retired ministers and missionaries
• Being a 501©(3) facility means a partial tax write-off for financial commitments to the community

7. Comparison with Other Facilities in the Area

Compared to other senior living options in the region, Penney Retirement Community distinguishes itself in several ways:

Facility	Price Range	Key Differentiators
Penney Retirement Community	25-35% less than competitors (per resident testimonials)	Non-profit status, full CCRC services, focus on volunteer service, Christian orientation, 10-time Gold Seal Award recipient
Palagio Senior Living (Orange Park)	From $3,370/month	For-profit model, less extensive campus, newer facility
Seagrass Village of Fleming Island	From $3,800/month	Resort-style amenities, for-profit model, less extensive community engagement

7.1 Advantages over Competitors

• Non-profit status allowing for more affordable pricing
• Extensive 1,000-acre campus with numerous amenities
• Strong focus on community service and volunteerism
• Full continuum of care from independent living to skilled nursing
• Recognition through awards and 5-star ratings
• Resident involvement in governance (residents make up 1/3 of the board)
• Christian orientation and values-based community

7.2 Potential Disadvantages

• Age restrictions (mentioned in one review that they don’t accept new residents over 85)
• Rural location may be less convenient for some
• Less emphasis on luxury amenities compared to some newer facilities

8. Quality of Care and Staff Responsiveness

Penney Retirement Community has established an excellent reputation for quality care:

8.1 Healthcare Excellence

• Ten-time recipient of the Governor’s Gold Seal Award for Excellence in Long-Term Care
• 5-Star rating from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services
• The Pavilion for Health Care recognized as a premier skilled nursing facility

8.2 Staff Quality

• 24/7 nurse responder program providing in-person assistance
• Staff approach emphasizes dignity and personal relationships
• Consistent positive feedback about staff attentiveness and compassion

8.3 Healthcare Coordination

• On-site Wellness Clinic staffed through partnerships with major health systems
• Convenient access to rehabilitation services
• Coordination with external healthcare providers

9. Unique Features and Programs

Several distinctive features set Penney Retirement Community apart:

9.1 Service-Oriented Community

• Strong focus on volunteering and giving back
• Internationally recognized PET mobility cart program
• Culture of residents actively contributing to community operations

9.2 Aging Together Philosophy

• Specialized accommodations for couples with differing care needs
• Two-room apartments in assisted living allowing couples to remain together
• Campus design facilitating visits between spouses in different care levels

9.3 Governance Model

• Residents comprise approximately one-third of the Board of Directors
• Active resident involvement in community decisions and operations

9.4 Christian Foundation

• Faith-based community with Christian values
• Non-denominational approach welcoming people from diverse backgrounds

9.5 Self-Contained Community

• Functions as its own small town with essential services
• On-site post office, banking, dining, recreation, and healthcare

10. Reputation and Recognition

Penney Retirement Community has earned numerous accolades and maintains an excellent reputation:

10.1 Awards and Ratings

• Ten-time recipient of the prestigious Governor’s Gold Seal Award for Excellence in Long-Term Care
• 5-Star rating from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services
• 2023 Best of Clay Award (Nursing Home category)
• High ratings across review platforms (4.6/5 on Caring.com based on 9 reviews)

10.2 Community Standing

• Established presence in northeast Florida since its founding
• Strong reputation for volunteer service and community contributions
• Recognition for innovative programs like the PET mobility cart initiative

11. Recommendations for Prospective Residents and Families

Based on this comprehensive review, here are key recommendations for those considering Penney Retirement Community:

1. Schedule an In-Person Visit: Contact PRC at 904-284-8200 to arrange a tour and get firsthand experience of the community atmosphere and amenities.
2. Understand the Financial Structure: Request detailed information about entrance fees, monthly maintenance costs, and what services are included.
3. Clarify Care Transition Processes: Discuss how transitions between different care levels are handled, particularly for couples with differing needs.
4. Explore Volunteer Opportunities: Ask about the various volunteer programs available to determine how they align with your interests and abilities.
5. Experience the Dining Services: Arrange to sample a meal in the dining hall to assess food quality and dining atmosphere.
6. Meet Current Residents: Speak with people who already live in the community to gain insights into daily life at PRC.
7. Review Healthcare Services: Inquire about the specifics of the Nurse Responder Program and on-site medical services.
8. Verify Age Requirements: Confirm eligibility requirements, as some reviews mentioned an age limit for new residents.
9. Consider Transportation Needs: Evaluate the community’s transportation services if you anticipate not driving.
10. Assess Cultural Fit: Consider whether the Christian-oriented, service-focused community culture aligns with your values and lifestyle preferences.

Conclusion

Penney Retirement Community offers a distinctive approach to senior living that emphasizes purpose, service, and community in a faith-based environment. With its comprehensive care continuum, extensive amenities, and award-winning skilled nursing facility, PRC provides options for seniors at various stages of aging and with different care needs.

What truly distinguishes Penney Retirement Community is its focus on meaningful engagement through volunteerism, its affordable non-profit model, and its emphasis on creating a genuine community rather than simply a residential facility. The high satisfaction levels reported by residents and consistent recognition through awards speak to the quality of life and care provided.

For seniors seeking an active, purposeful retirement in a supportive Christian setting with the security of available care as needs change, Penney Retirement Community represents an excellent option worth serious consideration.