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Brandon Oaks Life Plan Community is proud to announce multiple prestigious recognitions from Newsweek for 2026, underscoring our continued commitment to excellence in senior care. 

Brandon Oaks has been named one of America’s Best Continuing Care Retirement Communities for 2026, a distinction that reflects more than 30 years of service to older adults with high-quality, person-centered care. As part of Virginia Lutheran Homes, a nonprofit organization that has been serving older adults for over 50 years, Brandon Oaks continues its mission of delivering exceptional support across every level of care.

The Brandon Oaks Nursing & Rehabilitation Center has again been recognized as one of the nation’s elite High Performing Nursing Homes-earning a distinguished #2 ranking in Virginia based on size. This recognition highlights the strength of our clinical team, quality outcomes, and dedication to resident well-being.

We are also proud to share that Brandon Oaks at Home has been recognized by Newsweek as one of America’s Best Home Health Agencies for 2026-and is the only home health agency in Roanoke to receive this honor. The award reflects our team’s commitment to helping older adults safely age in place with exceptional support and care.

Charles Downs, President and CEO of Virginia Lutheran Homes, shared what these recognitions mean for the organization:

“These recognitions are a tremendous honor for our entire organization and a meaningful affirmation of the work our teams do every day. As the senior population continues to grow, the need for high-quality, mission-driven services has never been more important. Being recognized by Newsweek across multiple areas of care demonstrates our commitment to meeting those needs with excellence, compassion, and innovation. We are grateful for the trust families place in us and remain dedicated to providing exceptional support at every stage of aging.”

These awards reflect the enduring mission of Brandon Oaks and Virginia Lutheran Homes: to enrich the lives of older adults through exceptional care, hospitality, and innovation. We remain committed to delivering the highest standard of service-today, tomorrow, and for generations to come.

Choosing the right care after a hospital stay or while managing a chronic condition is one of the most meaningful decisions a family can make. Exceptional home health care is defined not only by clinical expertise, but by unwavering compassion, consistency, and a deep commitment to patient well-being.

We are proud to announce that Brandon Oaks at Home has been named to Newsweek and Statista’s inaugural list of America’s Best Home Health Agencies 2026. This prestigious recognition has been awarded to only seven agencies in the entire state of Virginia-and we are the only provider in the Roanoke region to receive this honor.

Selected from more than 10,000 agencies nationwide, only 300 were chosen based on rigorous evaluation criteria including quality outcomes, patient satisfaction, peer recommendations, and national accreditations. This distinction sets apart those who not only deliver care, but set the standard for excellence.

“To be recognized on a national stage is an extraordinary honor,” said Meg Caruso, Administrator for Brandon Oaks at Home. “This achievement is a testament to our team’s unwavering commitment to providing exceptional, trustworthy care in every home we serve. We are proud, humbled, and motivated to continue setting the standard for home health in our community.”

At Brandon Oaks at Home, we believe healing is most powerful where people feel most secure-at home. This honor reaffirms our mission to provide not just skilled clinical care, but dignity, comfort, and hope to every patient we serve.

Brandon Oaks at Home Team

We are honored to have been featured in a recent WFXR news story highlighting the safety and fire protocols in place here at Brandon Oaks. Choosing a senior care community can be a deeply emotional decision-full of questions, concerns, and hopes for comfort and security. At Brandon Oaks, the safety of our residents and staff is our highest priority.

The WFXR segment shines a light on the extensive measures we take to ensure that every individual in our care is protected. From comprehensive staff training and regularly scheduled fire drills to having evacuation chairs and advanced safety equipment like a central fire panel that immediately alerts the fire department-every detail is thoughtfully considered.

Our facilities are equipped with a full sprinkler system, fire-rated doors that help slow the spread of flames, and clearly defined evacuation plans. These layers of protection help ensure residents can remain safe in their rooms or be safely evacuated when needed.

We’re proud of our dedicated team and grateful for the opportunity to share the steps we take every day to provide peace of mind to our residents and their families.

You can view the full WFXR story here:

https://www.wfxrtv.com/city-of-roanoke/fire-safety-a-top-priority-for-assisted-living-and-at-home-seniors/

 

We are pleased to announce that Carter Hanna, our current Director of Marketing at Brandon Oaks, will be expanding her leadership responsibilities to include the newly established role of Director of Project Management for Virginia Lutheran Homes, Inc.

Carter has been an integral part of the Brandon Oaks leadership team, bringing strategic insight and a deep dedication to our mission. Her involvement in numerous capital improvement efforts-such as the Pines expansion of Pine Ridge, the Nursing & Rehabilitation Center renovations, and the recent updates to our corporate office-has demonstrated her ability to guide complex projects to successful outcomes. In her new role as Director of Project Management, Carter will oversee the planning, coordination, and execution of major initiatives across all VLH communities including Brandon Oaks and Luther Crest. Carter will continue in her current position as Director of Marketing while taking on these additional duties at the organizational level.

Congratulations Carter!

At Brandon Oaks, we’re proud to support the next generation of healthcare professionals, public servants, and community leaders. Our 2025 scholarship recipients exemplify the dedication, compassion, and growth that define our values-and we’re honored to recognize their achievements.

Meet the 2025 Scholarship Recipients

Tresjour Peters, a senior at Salem High School, has worked at Brandon Oaks for nearly three years. She will attend Old Dominion University this fall to major in Health Sciences and Radiation. Tresjour says her experience here taught her to appreciate the value of seniors and helped her grow as a person.

Trinity Peters, also from Salem High School, is headed to Old Dominion University to pursue Dental Hygiene. She reflects on how her time at Brandon Oaks gave her a strong sense of fulfillment through meaningful relationships with residents and co-workers.

Claire Altema of Patrick Henry High School plans to study medicine at either UVA or JMU. Working with residents helped her develop patience, strengthen her communication skills, and understand the value of connection across generations.

Sarah Alcin, a William Fleming High School student, plans to pursue a BSN at VCU or JMU. Her time at Brandon Oaks confirmed her desire to enter nursing by fostering compassion and empathy for the elderly.

Taylan Herndon is currently studying Criminal Justice at Virginia Western Community College and interning with the Salem Police Department. He credits Brandon Oaks with teaching him teamwork and the importance of listening to the life lessons shared by residents.

Shayla Boggess, currently at Galen College of Nursing, is working towards becoming a registered nurse. She has gained valuable hands-on experience in elder care and developed key professional skills such as time management and critical thinking.

Sophia Carter, a Penn Foster student who’s been with Brandon Oaks for nearly three years, is considering options for an associate degree. She says her first job here helped her build confidence and feel genuinely supported by residents and staff.

About the Brandon Oaks Scholarship Program

The Brandon Oaks Scholarship program was launched in 2022 to support student employees pursuing higher education-whether through college, technical school, trade programs, or certification. The program is managed by a dedicated committee of residents and staff who share a common belief: that investing in young people is one of the most powerful ways to shape a better future.

Since its inception, the committee has raised nearly $65,000 and awarded $24,500 in scholarships since then. These funds have helped students continue their education at institutions such as VWCC, Roanoke College, and James Madison University.

Previous scholarship recipient Sophia Parr, a Marketing major at JMU and member of the Deloitte Leadership Allyship and Mentorship Program says, “The scholarship from Brandon Oaks has helped me pay for school so I didn’t have to stress as much about covering those costs.” Sophia goes on to say, “Being supported by the residents of Brandon Oaks is the best feeling, it’s great knowing they are rooting for me in school and life, and I am so thankful for them!”

Beyond financial support, the scholarship program is a testament to the unique intergenerational bonds that form at Brandon Oaks. It reflects the way our community uplifts, mentors, and celebrates the potential of the young people who serve alongside us each day.

The growth of our student employees is something we witness firsthand-and the stories they carry forward are a part of our legacy.

 

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!