Monarch Landing enhances sustainability efforts with resident-led initiatives
A simple invitation to a committee meeting quickly drew Lee Quillinan into the heart of life at Monarch Landing senior living community. Shortly after moving in, Lee attended a meeting of the environmental sustainability subcommittee, and by his third visit, he was named chair.
“I told them I couldn’t possibly take it on,” Lee recalled. “I was the newest resident. But at the end of the meeting, they said, ‘Lee, thank you for volunteering to be chair.’ And I’ve been in that role ever since.”
As chair, Lee leads a team of residents collaborating with plant operations, dining services, and other departments to implement environmentally friendly practices. The committee’s guiding motto, Sustain Monarch, focuses on practical, community-specific sustainability efforts.
“We’re concentrating on what we can do right here to make a difference first,” Lee said.
The sustainability committee meets monthly with about a dozen residents and recently hosted Naperville’s Sustainability Manager to strengthen citywide ties. Plans are underway to invite speakers from the Naperville Environmental Sustainability Task Force to explore additional opportunities.
Current initiatives include enhancing recycling education, reducing food waste, exploring composting, installing EV charging stations, and improving energy-efficient lighting throughout the campus.
A lifetime of volunteerism
Lee’s commitment to service extends beyond Monarch Landing. He volunteers at Naper Settlement, where he serves on the museum board overseeing operations and programming. Monarch Landing maintains an active connection with the museum through resident visits, guest speakers, and sponsored programs.
After 46 years in their Naperville home, Lee and his wife Shirley moved to Monarch Landing seeking a vibrant, engaging community. “The staff and residents were so friendly. The positive atmosphere was obvious,” Lee said. “We knew if we didn’t choose Monarch Landing, we’d regret it.”
Since moving in, Lee’s calendar has filled with performances, events, and meetings. “I’m busier now than when I was a business owner. And the people are wonderful — we’ve made so many friends,” he said.
About Monarch Landing
Monarch Landing is a Life Plan Community located on a scenic campus in Naperville, Illinois. Named one of “America’s best places to live and retire” by Modern Maturity and “the best city for early retirement” by Kiplinger, Monarch Landing offers independent living and a full continuum of care through The Springs at Monarch Landing, including memory-supported assisted living, rehabilitation, respite care, and skilled nursing services. Monarch Landing is owned by Senior Care Development and managed by Life Care Services. For more information, visit WelcomeToMonarchLanding.com or TheSpringsatMonarchLanding.com.