It would be our pleasure to give you a tour of Orchard Heights Assisted Living in Western New York and supply you with an Admissions Application and Social History form. Alternatively, you can download these forms from our website.

Orchard Heights Admissions Application (pdf format)
Orchard Heights Social History Form (pdf format)

If you have any questions about the application process, Admissions Director Anne Marie Hogenkamp-Bray would be happy to assist. You can reach her at 716.662.0651.

Happy to Be Home at Orchard Heights
by Anne Marie Hogenkamp-Bray

Where one has been leads always to where one will go…

Many years ago, while working as a nanny for a family in Orchard Park, I realized that my calling in life was to care for other people.  I took great pride in having a hand in raising my employer’s three beautiful children.  When I entered nursing school I began to look for work that would enable me to gain experience in the nursing field and accommodate my work schedule.  Polly Hamister, a family friend, suggested that I apply at Orchard Heights.  

What a wonderful experience!  Administration and staff members welcomed me into a stunning residence.  I formed many friendships during this time. I will never forget the sense of community I felt with all team members, from dietary to fellow aides, nurses and administration.   I was always made to feel at home, especially by Mr. Hamister, who would take time to talk to each and every co-worker during visits, myself included. 

I loved my job as a PCA and the time I spent caring for my residents was incredibly fulfilling. As I helped our seniors shower or dress, or even while made them a cup a tea, they would tell me stories with great wisdom. I continue to cherish those stories to this day.  My work as a PCA, the cornerstone of my career, will always be something that I will remember fondly. 

I left Orchard Heights reluctantly to continue my education. Later on, I was offered a position as an Infant/Toddler Teacher in a childcare center in Western New York.  I was only with the company a short time when I was offered an administrative position.  I spent the next 9 years earning a degree in Early Childhood Education and Business.  The company flourished and we grew from 37 children per day to 83.  In 1993 we built a state-of-the-art facility where I had 156 children daily.  I loved touring prospective families and assisting them with childcare choices.

Years later I moved home to Orchard Park. One afternoon I was laying out newspaper so that my daughter could use her play-dough without making a mess. I glanced down and there was an ad for an Admissions Director at Orchard Heights. I could not believe it!  The thought of being able to return to the company!  WOW!

 I applied and was very impressed when I walked into the conference room and saw so many familiar faces. From Jennifer Giardina to Lee Watson, it was a testament to what I always knew: Orchard Heights is a very special place!  Gary Pelton welcomed me on my first day and I was so impressed to see that the residence was as beautiful as I remembered.  Gary and our entire team have made me feel as though I never left.  It is truly an honor to come to Orchard Heights everyday. 

Working with individuals who share my vision for our residents and families is truly a dream come true.  Caring for our Residents, promoting our exceptional community, and helping families make decisions for their loved ones is my passion.  It was my experience here so many years ago that brought me back.

 I only know that the past always reflects on the future. I am so proud to be “home” again at Orchard Heights!