When founder, Bob Sharpe, first set forth his vision for the Rancho Sahuarita masterplan in the late 1990s, he began initially with the active adult community of Rancho Resort. Together, with the first pioneering residents of the community in 2000, he helped welcome hundreds of families seeking an elevated and engaging lifestyle, designed especially for active adults.
Now 20 years later, over 200 events take place for the community’s residents each year, along with various programs and access to amenities like the Clubhouse’s recently renovated Fitness Center. Much of what happens in the community is made possible solely through the efforts of the residents themselves, who together have 35 clubs including the Silver Strummers, Sassy Sewers, Woodshop Club and the Craft Club. Its active residents are also among the most generous; giving of their time, talents and resources to help raise money and awareness for organizations like the Sahuarita Food Bank, the local schools and others throughout the year.
On Wednesday, February 12th, a special “20th Birthday Celebration” was held for residents at the Clubhouse, with cake, refreshments and a few words from Board of Directors President, Jeremy Sharpe. Approximately 250 residents attended the event, which spanned the afternoon. It was an opportunity for residents to spend time with each other while reminiscing, laughing and reflecting on the times they have shared in the community. Several residents also took time to step into a photo booth with friends and neighbors to commemorate the special occasion.
Sharpe spoke to those at the start of the event saying, “As I think back to the early years, when my dad, Bob and my mother Deborah first opened this community and welcomed in those first residents, I can’t help but feel a sense of joy and of pride for all that the community has become and all that it will continue to grow and develop into in the future.”
He addressed the residents in attendance saying “You all are such a key part of that, and all that Rancho Resort is today is because of you and the community you’ve created amongst yourselves. Congratulations on 20 amazing years, and Happy Birthday!”
Marla Corley, who has lived in the community with her husband Ken since 2005, reflected back on her years in the community and shared her favorite part of living in Rancho Resort. “The feeling of seeing home! Where we feel safe, enjoying the activities that are offered, and meeting and making new friends.”
Carol Siems, who moved here with her husband Larry 20 years ago, also commented saying “We have enjoyed making friends with people from all over the world. There are so many activities – we have to pick and choose. We feel we made a great decision when we decided to make Rancho Resort our home.”
Rancho Resort’s 20th Anniversary celebration will continue throughout the year, with special components added to various programs already on the calendar.