A kind and connected neighbor in Orlando’s West Lakes communities

Ms. Sheila Caldwell, a vibrant 65-year-old with a heart full of compassion, has called Pendana Senior Residences her home since it opened its doors in 2020. Her journey to this nurturing community is a testament to her unwavering determination. 

Having moved to Orlando from Citrus Springs, Florida in 2017, she initially lived in an apartment in another part of the city. Life took an unexpected turn when she suffered a debilitating stroke that led to serious health conditions. It was then that she found a lifeline in a program that helped her get back on her feet, both physically and emotionally. The program's support was instrumental in her recovery and in securing a cozy apartment at Pendana Senior Residences in The Communities of West Lakes.

For Ms. Caldwell, West Lakes was more than just a place to live; it was a community where her heart thrived. "I love it here because I get to socialize with others,” Sheila expressed. "I try to get everybody in Pendana Senior together so that we can socialize like a family. I plan dinners, field trips, and walks for everyone here."

From the moment she arrived, Ms. Caldwell became the social glue of the community. She spoke to everyone, extended a helping hand, and embraced the role of the friendly neighbor. She was known for taking out her neighbors' trash, making store runs for them, and assisting with household chores. "I really want to help people stay happy," she explained, "so I sometimes knock on their doors and invite them outside to get some sun. All of this helps keep my mind sharp."

Her weekly routine was a testament to her commitment. "I’ve planned field trips on the weekend to go out for breakfast. One time, we coordinated rides to the SunRail to sightsee and then went out to Red Lobster together,” Sheila shared.

When asked if she had ever considered living elsewhere, her response was simple but poignant. "I’m not sure. West Lakes is home. I love West Lakes! I get to walk to Lake Lorna Doone and enjoy the community!"

Ms. Caldwell's desire to nurture a sense of family extended to her role as a volunteer. Every week, she is at the forefront of planning Friday breakfast and lunch with Seniors First. "On Fridays, I wake up early to prepare the coffee station and get the bagels ready. Sometimes we get together and cook a big breakfast! After we eat, we do arts and crafts, pottery, and puzzles. After that, we have lunch together and normally hang out until 2 or 3 p.m.!"

But Ms. Caldwell isn’t one to rest on her laurels. She has her sights set on a grand Christmas celebration this year. She wants to book an Airbnb for 10 residents to get away and celebrate Christmas together! "I’d love to plan early and already have an itinerary set up for every day,” Sheila expressed. “It would be so nice to have a great Christmas dinner together. This would be our gift to one another. I’m looking for a sponsor who can help make this happen." 

Ms. Sheila Caldwell's story is one of resilience, compassion, and unwavering community spirit. She has found her place at Pendana Senior Residences in The Communities of West Lakes, and in doing so, she has become the heart and soul of a warm and caring community.

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About Pendana at West Lakes
The West Lakes Community Campus features two award-winning housing complexes — Pendana at West Lakes (a $40M investment) and Pendana at West Lakes Senior Residences (a $25M investment) — that feature beautifully designed mixed-income and affordable apartment residences in several configurations including flats and townhomes. The properties are owned by Lift Orlando and Columbia Residential. The two lots feature a total of 320 one-,two- and three-bedroom units. A handful of units are reserved for tenants with very low-incomes and set aside for use in partnership with the City of Orlando for the chronically homeless. Replacing the former blighted Washington Shores Village, the spacious rooms feature grand 8-foot entrances, expansive 9-foot ceilings, and ceiling fans.

Pendana Senior Residences has amenities such as a movie theater, fitness facility, a check-up room for visiting healthcare providers, a fitness center, rooftop balconies, and apartments that can be reserved for the use of visiting family and friends. Shared amenities between the complexes include a gated and expansive 27,000-gallon resident swimming pool with a large deck and chaise lounge chairs, a pond with fountain feature, pocket parks, courtyards, permaculture landscaping, and a playground.