For many residents, getting involved in the community at St. James Place comes naturally. And with so many committees available to facilitate the practices, residents have an abundance of ways to personalize their experience and join in on making their home the best it can be.

Take John Bateman for example.

After living in their home for more than 25 years, John and his wife Sissy chose the comfort and convenience of a life plan community that can support them through life’s many changes. They moved to St. James Place without second thought.

At home, John was always an avid gardener. He knew that one of the best ways he could give back to St. James Place was by eagerly joining the Gardening Committee to tend and maintain the campus’ beautiful landscape. And soon after jumping on the opportunity, he was appointed Chairman of the committee.

With an apartment overlooking the beloved Butterfly Garden, John understands the appeal of a well-maintained landscape for everyone.

“It’s like a fine painting,” he said. “We get to enjoy the beauty of the landscape from every view.”

John, along with the gardening committee, strive to make St. James Place look its absolute best every day of the year. Tackling two projects every year—Arbor Day and the Annual Daffodil Planting—involves major enhancements to beautifying the campus. But on a day-to-day basis, they tend to smaller projects, such as planting balcony planters, necessary tree removals, and pruning and fertilizing the Butterfly and Camellia gardens.

“It’s important for us to make St. James Place inviting to new prospects, so we can share what we love with even more residents,” John said.

Although the committee works to help benefit the campus visually through their gardens and landscaping it also provides another opportunity for residents to meet new friends and continue their passions.

“Being part of this committee has helped me use my brain and muscles more and meet some wonderful residents,” John said. “We have a fun-loving group and getting to know them better has been very special as we work as a team doing the things we love.”

Take a look at our Campus & Gardens Photo Gallery to experience the beauty of St. James Place, and call our Sales Team to schedule an in-person tour: (225) 215-4510.