Bella Vida Voice – July 2026

A Note from Our Executive Director

At Forefront Living, hiring is never simply about filling a position. Our interview and selection process is intentionally thorough because we know that every team member plays a meaningful role in shaping the Bella Vida experience. While the right skills and experience are certainly important, we place equal emphasis on finding individuals who embrace our mission and reflect our core values of Diversity, Integrity, Stewardship, and Compassion.

Our goal is to build a team whose members not only excel in their respective roles but also genuinely care for others and contribute to the welcoming, vibrant culture we are creating. Every person we hire should embody our commitment to making each moment matter for those we serve. We are excited about expanding our team and look forward to welcoming the right individuals who will help make Bella Vida feel like home from the very first day.

Thanks!
Brooks

Declutter with Confidence

That’s why we’re hosting a Drive-Through Shredding, E-Recycling, and Donation Event exclusively for our Bella Vida future VIPs and friends.

This event is designed to make downsizing a little easier—and you don’t even have to get out of your vehicle. Simply drive through, and our team will unload everything for you.

Here’s what we’ll have available:

Secure On-Site Shredding
Bring your old files, outdated paperwork, financial records, and any confidential documents that have been taking up valuable space. A professional shred truck will be on-site, securely shredding documents as they’re collected, giving you peace of mind that your personal information is protected.

Electronics Recycling
Old computers, televisions, printers, cell phones, tablets, cords, keyboards—you name it. Instead of letting electronics collect dust in a closet or garage, recycle them responsibly while helping protect your personal data.

Donation Collection
If you’ve discovered clothing, small furniture, or household items that no longer fit your next chapter, the Assistance League of San Antonio will be accepting donations to help those in our community.

Downsizing doesn’t happen all at once. It happens one decision at a time. Every donation is a step toward a simpler move. Sometimes all you need is the right opportunity to get started.

Join us!

Tuesday, July 22
10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Crown Ridge Banquet Hall Parking Lot
6909 Camp Bullis Rd.
San Antonio, TX 78256

Whether you have one box of papers or a car full of items to donate, we’d love to help you lighten the load. We look forward to seeing you there!

New Employee Spotlight: Trisha Barrett

“I know I have so much to learn from the incredible people who call Bella Vida home. I look forward to hearing their stories, learning from their wisdom and life experiences, sharing laughs, giving hugs, and hopefully becoming a small part of their lives, just as I know they’ll become a meaningful part of mine. I truly believe this is going to be so much more than a job, and I couldn’t be more grateful to be here.”

Outside of work, Trisha enjoys spending time with her husband of 15 years, a Navy veteran, and their three children – one adult and two in high school. She also loves baking, paddleboarding, exploring the Texas Hill Country, and cheering on her son at baseball games. Their home is shared with four very spoiled dogs who keep life lively.

This month, we’d like to introduce you to Jeff, a twice‑retired San Antonian whose idea of retirement has less to do with slowing down and more to do with seeing the world. He spent 29 years in the same home, building a life, a career, and a love of travel that has only grown stronger since he retired. These days, his favorite plans involve a packed suitcase, a new destination, and the flexibility to say “yes” whenever an intriguing trip opportunity comes along.

As he looks ahead to his move into Bella Vida, Jeff is most excited about the added freedom it will bring to the way he already loves to live. He’s looking forward to days shaped around beautiful common areas, fitness facilities, and a variety of dining options—not a list of chores and repairs. He can’t wait to share stories, compare travel notes, and get to know future neighbors who are just as eager to enjoy this next chapter. For Jeff and his fellow future residents, Bella Vida represents a new lifestyle: a community of friendships and shared interests that supports everyone’s well-being and happiness in their retirement years.

Construction Updates

Construction at Bella Vida continues to move steadily forward, with meaningful progress taking shape across the community over the past month. While there’s always plenty happening behind the scenes, the work is coming along, and each day brings us a little closer to seeing it all come together.

that our students succeed in school—teachers. This year, the Write Start Project is supporting teachers in Northeast ISD.

How You Can Help

Bella Vida is serving as a collection point for donated school supplies. Just bring your items to the Information Center, and our team will deliver everything to one of the United Way’s official drop-off locations. Items must be dropped off at Bella Vida by August 7, 2026, so we have time to deliver everything before the school year begins.

Every item makes a difference, but here’s what’s needed most:

Whether you contribute a single pack of pencils or a full bag of supplies, your generosity helps create a brighter classroom for a child in our community.

Don’t Have Time to Shop?

You can also purchase a ready-made school supply bag directly through United Way — just text WRITESTART to 41444.

Questions about the drive? Reach out to Nathan at the Info Center. We’re happy to help you get involved and learn more.

Highlights From Our Recent VIP Events

Thrive: Crafting for a Cause

On June 15, a creative and sweet afternoon brought VIPs together to craft adorable “chocolate dogs” using Smarties, Hershey Kisses, and googly eyes. The event quickly became more than just crafting, with plenty of conversation and connection before and after. Guests even began planning future get-togethers, a sure sign this group is here to stay.

VIP Social

VIPs joined us on June 18 for this lively, catered social for those with last names that start with Q–Z and new depositors. The highlight of the afternoon was celebrating new VIP, Wayne Witwer, on his birthday. With great food and even better company, the event created a warm and welcoming atmosphere for both familiar and new faces.

Construction Site Bus Tour for VIPs Reserved at Apartments

Behind the Scenes at Bella Vida

Our newly reimagined “Behind the Scenes at Bella Vida” event on June 26 welcomed VIPs to two sessions for an engaging project update. Brooks Powell shared insights on future amenities, including exercise equipment, physician partnerships, and the hiring of a lifestyle coordinator. Jermain Owens showcased construction progress, including updates to the new pool and building, while Rachel highlighted upcoming events such as the VIP shredding day. A lively Q&A wrapped up each session, helping VIPs stay informed and connected.

Save the Date for These Upcoming Events

Mark your calendars for these exciting events exclusively for our Bella Vida VIPs. Stay tuned for invitations with more details on each event coming soon to your inbox or mailbox!

VIPs who have reserved a villa are invited for a fun, engaging afternoon! Our neighborhood socials are a great chance to meet your neighbors, even before you become neighbors.

Join fellow VIPs for an afternoon of friendly competition and fun as Linda Staurovsky hosts a Rummikub gathering. Whether you’re a seasoned player or looking to sharpen your skills, all are welcome. This is a potluck-style event, so please bring a favorite dish, snack, or dessert to share. Seating is limited to 24 participants, so be sure to RSVP early to reserve your spot. We look forward to an afternoon of games, great food, and good company.

Join us for our Drive-Through Shredding, E-Recycling, and Donation Event! Bring your unwanted documents for secure shredding, and donate unwanted household items and gently used clothing items. Accepted items: sneakers, clothing, small furniture, decor. Electronics recycling available: cell phones, computers, printers and more.

Join the Ladies Lunch Bunch and get to know some other future residents of Bella Vida. These lovely ladies have organized this self-pay event and would love to welcome some new faces. Space is limited to 30, so look for an invite and be sure to RSVP!

Get an exclusive look at the exciting progress taking place across the community during Bella Vida’s newly reimagined Behind the Scenes event, formerly known as Bagels with Brooks. During this special event, our team will share the latest construction updates, new photos of the community, projected move-in timelines, and exciting news about recent hires and future plans. It’s a wonderful opportunity to stay informed, ask questions, and see how Bella Vida is coming to life.

VIPs who have reserved an apartment home in Phase 1 (the orange side of the diagram above) are invited to a fun Happy Hour. Join other future residents for some mingling, drinks and updates on your soon-to-be homes!

Get an exclusive look at the exciting progress taking place across the community during Bella Vida’s newly reimagined Behind the Scenes event, formerly known as Bagels with Brooks. During this special event, our team will share the latest construction updates, new photos of the community, projected move-in timelines, and exciting news about recent hires and future plans. It’s a wonderful opportunity to stay informed, ask questions, and see how Bella Vida is coming to life.

VIPs who have reserved an apartment home in Phase 2 (the blue side of the diagram above) are invited to a fun Happy Hour. Join other future residents for some mingling, drinks and updates on your soon-to-be homes!