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Brandon Oaks Nursing & Rehabilitation Center has once again been recognized as a Best Nursing Home for 2025 by U.S. News & World Report. This prestigious designation highlights Brandon Oaks’ commitment to providing exceptional care and services to its residents. Brandon Oaks Nursing & Rehabilitation Center earned its status by achieving a rating of “High Performing”, the highest possible rating, for both Short-Term Rehabilitation and Long-Term Care. U.S. News gives the designation only to those who satisfy U.S. News’ proprietary assessment of consistent performance in quality measures.

“This honor is a direct reflection of the hard work, compassion, and dedication of our amazing team”, says Esteban Duran-Ballen, Administrator of the Nursing & Rehabilitation Center and Director of Clinical Services. He continued by saying, “Every day, we strive to create a place where our residents feel at home, respected, and well cared for. It’s a privilege to serve them, and we’re committed to continuing to provide the highest level of care with heart and integrity.”

For the 2025 edition, U.S. News evaluated nearly 15,000 nursing homes on patient and resident outcomes, such as infection rates; staffing levels; health inspection results and other indicators of quality. “U.S. News’ Best Nursing Homes ratings put patient well-being at the forefront and provides families with the objective information they need to make confident decisions about their loved ones’ care,” said Ben Harder, chief of health analysis and managing editor at U.S. News.

Brandon Oaks Nursing Home’s recognition underscores its position as a leader in providing high-quality care and support for seniors in the Roanoke area.

Virginia Lutheran Homes operates a senior low-income housing community known as Luther Crest, located in New Market, VA. This holiday season, we had the joy of celebrating Christmas with our residents by organizing a festive gathering that included a delightful Christmas lunch and thoughtful gifts for each of the 42 residents.

Luther Crest Christmas was initiated eight years ago by our dedicated Director of Development, Julee Goodman. Each year, Julee spearheads fundraising efforts, engaging both staff members and residents from Brandon Oaks to contribute to this meaningful cause. Thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, we successfully raised $14,000 this year.

“Every year, I am amazed by the generous donations that we receive to make this holiday celebration possible”, says Julee Goodman. She adds, “Many of our residents at Luther Crest don’t have family to celebrate with and have limited financial resources so the gifts and fellowship are so impactful.”

The gifts provided to our residents included grocery store gift cards, cash, toiletries, cozy pillows, and some delightful surprises. This annual event not only brings joy during the holiday season but also strengthens the bonds within our community, reaffirming our commitment to enhancing the lives of those we serve.

Earlier this month, Virginia Lutheran Homes held our 1st Annual Donor Dinner, themed “A Night in Tuscany,” held in our picturesque Courtyard. The event celebrated the generosity of our supporters-residents, staff, board members, community members, and local businesses-who play a vital role in advancing our mission at Virginia Lutheran Homes.

The fall weather provided a stunning backdrop as guests enjoyed a delightful array of Tuscan-themed dishes. The ambiance was elevated by captivating performances by Opera Roanoke, making the night not only a feast for the palate but also for the soul.

Ben Burks, Executive Director & COO, highlighted the importance of community support. He encouraged guests to stroll around Impact Circle, where they could view photos showcasing the various programs and services their donations help fund. “Seniors desire a life with good health, dignity, economic independence, and peaceful golden years,” Ben remarked. “With your support, we make a difference in their lives and their families’ lives.”

Charles Downs Jr., our President and CEO, reflected on the rich history of Virginia Lutheran Homes. Over 50 years ago, a vision emerged among local Lutheran congregations and the Virginia Synod to create a facility dedicated to senior care. This vision has blossomed into what we are today-a community that embodies compassion and generosity. “The VLH story embodies the power that comes from the confluence of vision and generosity,” Charles said. “Whatever our future holds, we will remain steadfast in cultivating caring communities that advance housing, health, and opportunity for all.”

Julee Goodman, our Director of Development, shared poignant stories that exemplify the profound impact of our donors’ generosity. She recounted the experience of a long-term resident and D-Day survivor who faced financial challenges in his later years. Thanks to the support from our Resident Endowment donors, he received the charitable assistance needed to spend his final years in comfort and care within our community. “We walk side by side with our residents from age 62 to 104 or more,” Julee stated. “We are privileged to be witnesses to their lives, offering friendship and support through each season.”

The success of this event reaffirms our commitment to serving those who need it most. We look forward to continuing our mission with you by our side.

We are pleased to announce the promotion of Allison Williams to the new role of Director of Environmental Services. Allison previously  served as the Housekeeping Manager for Independent Living and Assisted Living since October of 2019. In her new role, she will now oversee housekeeping in all levels of care, including the Nursing and Rehab Center.

Congratulations, Allison!

Brandon Oaks was honored to receive 7 awards and 4 honorable mentions from Our Health magazine’s 11th Annual Senior Living Awards.

Gold
Independent Living
Nursing Home

Silver
Assisted Living
Inpatient Rehab
Outpatient Rehab
Post-Acute Rehab

Bronze
Speech Therapy

 

Honorable Mention
Skilled Nursing Care
Stroke Care
Companion Care
Home Health Care