In 1922 Bradley W. Foster established the Foster Foundation with a generous financial gift. His avowed purpose was to provide a home for care of the elderly. In 1925 the mission was realized when the Foster Memorial Home opened on Madison Avenue in Huntington. “The Home” became a Huntington fixture for 75 years, normally operating at a significant financial loss, underwritten by the Foundation. In 1985, Rev. Gray Hampton, a member of the Foster Foundation Board, introduced board members to the continuing care retirement community (CCRC) concept. Under his leadership, the board developed a plan to broaden the scope of the aging Foster Memorial Home into a CCRC in Huntington, West Virginia. Starting in 1988 and over the course of a decade, Chairman William F. “Bill” Agee and the board turned that vision into reality.
On August 19, 1996, Woodlands opened with 111 apartments at almost 100% occupancy. Over the next few years, 61 additional apartments and 23 cottages were built by those who wanted to preserve their residential independence. In 2004, the Assisted Living/Health Care wing of Woodlands was expanded with the substantial involvement of Mrs. Joan C. Edwards and the West Virginia Episcopal Diocese, raising the capacity to 88 units.
Woodlands popularity continues to grow as does the property itself. As we move into the future, it is our desire to serve our community, building lasting relationships and friendships along the way. We will continue the mission of Bradley Walters Foster by following his directives that the Foundation be perpetuated.
Learn here about ways to provide financial support to the Foster FoundationWoodlands Retirement Community is operated by a 501(c)(3) not for profit corporation providing the highest level of quality residential senior services for older adults from diverse backgrounds. Through its programs and activities, Woodlands seeks to embody the values of the Christian tradition, and the ideals of the benefactor, for persons of all faiths by attending to their physical, intellectual, social, emotional, and spiritual needs. Through the Foster Foundation, Woodlands assists seniors who outlive their resources. By offering a comprehensive continuum of care and a nurturing environment, Woodlands encourages seniors to experience the fullness of life in community with dignity, joy, and the maximum level of independence their health will allow.
