A COMFORT LIFE REPORT:
Shepherd Terrace vs. Don Mills Retirement Residence - Verve Senior Living

SHEPHERD TERRACE

Shepherd Terrace is ideal for senior Scarborough (and area) Christians who want to have everything at hand in a loving community. The village-style atmosphere here creates a safe oasis for seniors, where they truly have everything they need or can imagine all in one place. There's a wellness clinic, the swimming pool, a pharmacy, a hair salon, and so much more. With care on hand and conveniences both inside and just outside Shepherd Village, you truly have everything you need here.

DON MILLS RETIREMENT RESIDENCE - VERVE SENIOR LIVING

Verve Senior Living brings unparalleled expertise in senior living to the coveted neighbourhood of Don Mills, in this brand-new senior living residence. For starters, this community is located on Green Belt Drive, living up to its name with lots of nearby parkland (including Moccasin Trail Park) in a peaceful neighbourhood. The building itself is a beautifully state-of-the-art retirement residence rich with contemporary features and peopled by exceptionally professional staff. You’ll be impressed with their responsiveness and enthusiasm. The real heart of seniors’ new life here, though, is a lifestyle with your needs top-of-mind. The amenities here speak to that, with social activities and sharing in food and drink leading the way.

SHEPHERD TERRACE

In April 2018, I became acquainted with Noreen Brooker, the general manager of Shepherd Terrace, a retirement home/assisted living residence of Shepherd Village. Mark Burke was 93 years old. I was his dear friend turned family, caregiver, and overseer of all things. In May 2018, I was scheduled to travel overseas for 34 days. I left knowing Mark would be well cared for and safe under Noreen’s leadership. Noreen is a kind, caring, compassionate, and highly efficient person. Her responsibilities demanded much from her, yet she consistently ensured that her entire team — nurses, PSWs, cleaning staff, activation staff, and others — treated every resident of the Terrace with dignity, respect, kindness, and genuine care. Whenever I had a concern, I knew I could reach out to Noreen. She would listen, investigate thoroughly, and persevere until the desired outcome was achieved. Mark was exceptionally well cared for, greatly respected, and genuinely loved. He often referred to the building as a “high-class hotel,” which always made us smile. Mark passed away in 2023. I will never forget the nurses and PSWs who surrounded his bedside while he was in crisis. They stayed with him, comforting and caring for him until EMS arrived to take him to the hospital. I remain deeply grateful for Noreen’s leadership, compassion, and example, which clearly carried through to her staff and created such a loving and supportive environment. With Noreen’s assistance, I was able to donate and direct half the funding needed to spearhead the creation of the "Games Room" for the residents of the Terrace. Mark loved playing games, especially Trivia, and it brings me joy knowing that others continue to benefit from that special space. Today, I continue to visit the Terrace weekly in an official capacity with my St. John Ambulance Therapy Dog, Chloe. Noreen, Chloe, and I have formed a very special relationship on many levels, and the love, kindness, and respect she has shown us over the years is truly immeasurable. There is a beautiful life after work, and I wish Noreen a retirement filled with joy, travel, relaxation, entertainment, cherished friendships, good health, and long walks with her two beloved furbabies. Noreen, you have left a remarkable legacy and very big shoes to fill. Your Terrace friends will undoubtedly look forward to your visits as you begin this wonderful new chapter in your life.

My mother has been in Shepherd Terrace for 4 years . She is a very old Chinese lady. Despite [the fact that] she doesn’t speak English at all, by her body gestures, she has high respect and care from all the staff. The cleanliness of the facilities is super, and the Social Activity coordinator, Vivian, is trying her best with the programming and always has a smile on her face.

Thank you to the beautiful staff in the Lodge on the 6th floor who took care of my mom. Gloria, Roxanne, Jennifer, Rowena..my heart is so full of gratitude for the kindness, love, patience, and care you showed to my mom. She could not have been in better hands. You all went above and Beyond and exemplified excellence and pride in your wonderful work. May God shine His blessings upon you all

My Mom lived here for over 30 years. She loved it. I was so grateful for the care she had there. She made lots of friends with staff and residents. Grateful for all the support.

The cafe is great. The daily specials are delicious and the burgers they serve are the best anywhere. They even have Starbucks!

DON MILLS RETIREMENT RESIDENCE - VERVE SENIOR LIVING

My wife had a medical crisis that required we sell the house and move to a retirement home. She chose Don Mills, which was a marvellous choice. No words can tell how organized, clean, and cheerful it is. She had a really pleasant recovery! And that led to her being really well. I thank everyone there for such a wonderful facility, thanks to Stue, Ewa, Robert, Nethu, and all the staff who were unbelievably pleasant and cooperative.

I joined my friend on a tour and was not planning to think about it for myself, but changed my mind totally! It's a beautiful, new, clean spacious facility. Robert was very informative. Now, I just joined and am looking forward to gain my life again, living there. No cooking, no cleaning, no responsibility, just being pampered at the residence.

Thank you to the wonderful team at the Don Mills Residence! Iesha, Ewa and Taneshia gave my parents an outstanding welcome when they recently attended their Wellness Assessment. The professionalism, enthusiasm and sincerity of the team made my mom & dad feel supported and valued. My parents were hesitant about moving to a retirement residence, but meeting the team was a real turning point for them; now they are excited to experience all the wonderful services and amenities that their new lifestyle will offer them. My family looks forward to working with the Verve staff as my parents move closer to moving in! Thank you!

Ewa and the team at Don Mills are fabulous. They were always available to help, regardless of the time of day, and arranged everything quickly to prepare for a respite stay.

Take a look at Don Mills Retirement Residence! You won't be disappointed!!! We visited here as the first in a search for possible homes to consider when it is time for us to make a move. Ewa Ilijeska (Community Relations Manager) was our hostess. Honestly, after visiting this residence, we could easily say, "why look anywhere else?" - although Ewa encouraged us to. These were our first impressions ... - a well-run facility - the building: new, 10 foot ceilings, large windows - the atmosphere: bright, open - the staff: lots of courteous staff - who all acknowledged us as we passed - the delicious lunch: healthy, attractive, lots of choice, very open dining room, attentive servers - services and activities: a very complete list offered - communication (prior to/post visit): excellent. Thanks to Ewa for a delightful experience!

SHEPHERD TERRACE

Shepherd Terrace is a welcoming and professionally staffed retirement residence The residence offers both independent living, for those wanting modest support, and assisted living for seniors wanting support with daily living activities. Enjoy many services and amenities onsite including membership in our Health & Fitness Centre, indoor salt water pool, pharmacy, hair salon and spa, church services, immaculately maintained grounds, dynamic recreation programming and much more. Shepherd Terrace is part of Shepherd Village, Toronto’s largest not-for-profit seniors community and dedicated to the well-being of seniors since 1961. Call today for your private tour.

DON MILLS RETIREMENT RESIDENCE - VERVE SENIOR LIVING

Don Mills Retirement Residence is opening Summer 2023. We are a luxury senior living community in the heart of North York. Be inspired by beautifully appointed amenities in our state-of-the-art building that offers exceptional care, intelligent technology, and exciting life enrichment. Don Mills Retirement Residence is owned and operated by Verve Senior Living. Verve Senior Living is a company with a very simple philosophy: Life is precious! To enjoy every single second requires a vitality of spirit, mind, and body; well-being that encompasses what you do, eat and who you’re with every day. Named one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies for the third consecutive year (2023–2025) the prestigious award recognizes Verve’s proven leadership in retirement residence management, its strong and values‑driven employee culture, and its ongoing focus on innovation and exceptional resident experience across its communities.

SHEPHERD TERRACE

Shepherd Terrace is part of Shepherd Village, a caring Christian and Toronto’s largest not-for-profit seniors’ community.

Shepherd Terrace conducted a resident satisfaction survey in March 2023 and asked, “What do you like best about living at Shepherd Terrace?” The top response was that it is a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. We also asked, “Do you feel safe living here?” and “Are you satisfied with your suite?” We’re pleased to report that 100% of respondents answered YES to both questions.

DON MILLS RETIREMENT RESIDENCE - VERVE SENIOR LIVING

We offer a full continuum of care so residents can safely age in place. Our residents have the freedom to live life their way with peace of mind in Independent Living or purposeful living with spirit and energy in Assisted living and 24/7 support with specialized programming and safety led care in our Memory Care neighborhood.

SHEPHERD TERRACE

New residents at Shepherd Terrace are a part of our Welcome Program which provides:
• A meet and greet with existing residents and department heads such as Recreation, Nursing, Dining, and Spiritual Life
• Resident Handbook helping to answer any questions about services and support
• Personalized welcome gift
• Reserved meal seating with residents of similar interests
• Welcome package from the General Manager and Leadership Team
We look forward to welcoming you home!

DON MILLS RETIREMENT RESIDENCE - VERVE SENIOR LIVING

Resident Council, resident ambassadors, caring, trained staffing access to nursing staff 24-7 and life enrichment programs designed to empower your mind, body, and spirit. A full listing of ancillary services to pamper, ease the transition and develop a pleasing routine is offered from our Salon & Spa to our fitness center and lounges.

SHEPHERD TERRACE

At Shepherd Terrace, we understand that the needs of our residents can evolve over time. To ensure they continue to receive the care and support they need, we offer a range of additional à-la-carte services that can be easily integrated into their personalized care plans. Whether it's occasional help or more comprehensive care, Shepherd Terrace offers services designed to meet evolving needs with compassion and respect.

DON MILLS RETIREMENT RESIDENCE - VERVE SENIOR LIVING

We offer a full continuum of care, so you can continue living here with confidence even as your needs evolve. From independent living to assisted living and memory care, support and care is introduced thoughtfully as you need it. Since everything is available within one community, those transitions feel seamless. It’s also ideal for couples with different care needs, where one spouse may require additional support while the other is independent, allowing you to stay together in a familiar and comfortable setting.

SHEPHERD TERRACE

We strive to provide a supportive and welcoming environment where residents can thrive, but there are certain situations where our retirement residence, Shepherd Terrace, may not be the best fit. If a potential resident is actively exit-seeking, requires a two-person assist for mobility, or is no longer weight-bearing, we may advise that a care setting with more advanced support is better suited to their needs.

DON MILLS RETIREMENT RESIDENCE - VERVE SENIOR LIVING

We may not be the right fit for someone seeking a purely clinical or institutional care setting. Our focus is on creating a vibrant lifestyle, where well-being includes what you do, who you’re with, and how you experience each day. We’re best suited for individuals who value independence, engagement, and a love of community, supported by care that adapts as needed.

SHEPHERD TERRACE

Residents are delighted to discover just how much there is to do at Shepherd Village. There are many different groups and activities to participate in, and extensive amenities including a saltwater pool and fitness centre. The dedicated Chapel is welcoming both residents and our community plus our Spiritual Life team available 7 days a week offering pastoral care. Our Courtyard Cafe provides a chance to catch up with friends and family over a coffee or meal together, and the beautiful gardens and walkways are perfect to enjoy a stroll or relaxing visit. There’s something to relish in every single day.

DON MILLS RETIREMENT RESIDENCE - VERVE SENIOR LIVING

We offer resident-centric menus prepared fresh daily by our professional chefs and inspired by seasonal ingredients. Exceptional dining experiences happen at every meal not just on a special occasion.

SHEPHERD TERRACE

In the next five years, Shepherd Village will continue to grow and evolve to better serve our residents. We’re excited to be adding another life lease building to our property, providing more opportunities for individuals to join our community. Additionally, we’re exploring more dementia care options to ensure we can meet the needs of residents with varying levels of cognitive care. We’ll also be welcoming a new medical office, which will provide onsite doctors and a variety of medical services, making it even easier for residents to access the healthcare they need right here at Shepherd Village. As we grow, we remain committed to maintaining the high standards of care that have always defined us.

DON MILLS RETIREMENT RESIDENCE - VERVE SENIOR LIVING

We’ll continue to build on our philosophy that life can be great every day. That means enhancing our life enrichment programs, refining our care offerings, and continuing to listen to residents through initiatives like monthly meetings that shape daily life here. As expectations evolve, we’ll keep finding ways to elevate the experience—so every resident can continue to enjoy a great day, every day.

SHEPHERD TERRACE

• Shepherd Terrace is a 140-suite retirement residence offering independent and assisted living.
• Welcome to village life! Shepherd Terrace is part of Shepherd Village, Toronto’s largest not-for-profit seniors’ community.
• Shepherd Village is a Caring Christian Seniors’ Community welcoming people of all faiths. Our Spiritual Life Team serves people of all denominations 7 days a week. You choose how, or if, to participate.
• Our range of amenities will impress you! There’s something for everyone to discover and enjoy!
• Professional and dedicated nursing staff work with assisted living residents, and their families, to develop a detailed plan of care to ensure residents are cared for according to their unique needs.

DON MILLS RETIREMENT RESIDENCE - VERVE SENIOR LIVING

1. Elevated living - our full-service senior living residence offers elevated living and is designed to meet the needs of each individual from independent to specialized care.

2. We're located in an eclectic mix of urban and suburban in North York district of Toronto where culture, world-class shopping, food, and more are at your fingertips.

3. Life enrichment takes center stage as our amenities offer a cultural hub and incredible dining experiences all designed for you to age in place within a safe, comfortable and vibrant urban community.

4. Our signature programs are specially designed to ignite the mind, body, and soul.

5. Our community is pet-friendly; we welcome your furry family.