About Columbine Health
Since 1971, Columbine Health Systems has proudly served older adults in northern Colorado, creating vibrant communities and providing exceptional care. For over 50 years, we’ve been guided by a commitment to enhance the quality of life for residents, staff, and families through compassion, innovation, and community-centered values.
Explore our website to learn more about our services, facilities, and how we can meet your needs. Whether you’re considering a new place to call home, seeking expert medical care, or looking to join a team dedicated to excellence, we welcome you with open arms.
Our Care Philosophy
At Columbine Health Systems, we embrace a person-centered care philosophy that honors each individual’s unique life story, preferences, and needs. By fostering dignity, respect, and independence, we create care plans that are as unique as the people we serve.
Enhancing Dignity & Respect
Our person-centered care philosophy guides us in creating meaningful connections and fostering respect for every resident, family member, and staff member.
We Are Committed To:
- Truly Knowing Each Individual: Understanding the full person, both past and present, including their likes, dislikes, beliefs, and abilities.
- Personalized Care Plans: Tailoring care to reflect each person’s unique preferences, routines, and values.
- Supporting Independence: Encouraging residents to celebrate their accomplishments and maintain as much autonomy as possible.
- Promoting Well-Being: Offering opportunities for joy, comfort, and connection through meaningful relationships and activities.
- Honoring Choice: Respecting individual preferences and celebrating differences.
- Empowering Staff: Encouraging collaboration and shared education to enhance understanding and promote high-quality care.
- Enhancing Quality of Life: Fostering a sense of purpose, joy, and meaning for every resident
our Dementia Care Philosophy
Our specialized dementia care practice philosophy builds on these principles, emphasizing empathy, communication, and understanding. We strive to:
Support Early
Detection
Promptly refer for diagnostic evaluation when dementia is suspected.
Respect Personal
Reality
Meet residents where they are, embracing their perceptions and experiences in the moment.
Encourage Empathetic
Communication
Validate feelings and communicate with care, ensuring residents feel understood and valued.
Understand
Needs
Recognize that communication comes in many forms and work diligently to interpret and meet those needs.
Foster Meaningful
Relationships
Create opportunities for residents to stay connected to what brings them joy and purpose.
Nurture Authentic
Relationships
Build strong, compassionate relationships with residents, family, and staff.
Ensure a Safe
Environment
Maintain a supportive community that promotes security and comfort for all.
Adopt Evidence-Based
Practices
Continuously evaluate and improve care using the latest research and proven methods.
Our History:
From Humble Beginnings to a Legacy of Care
In 1970, Bob Wilson joined a construction crew working on an addition to the Columbine Care Center in Fort Collins. While on the job, Bob discovered a passion for connecting with the residents and took a maintenance position at the facility. Shortly after, the center faced bankruptcy, and Bob was asked to step in as its administrator. With little more than a borrowed suit and his determination, Bob turned the facility around in just six months, eventually gathering the resources to purchase it.
Building a Thriving Community of Care
What started as one 48-bed nursing home grew into a 120-bed facility, supported by 35 dedicated employees—many of whom were local farmworkers. This marked the beginning of Columbine Health Systems.
Today, Columbine Health Systems has expanded far beyond its modest origins, with a network that includes:
- 2 Patio Home Communities
- 4 Independent Living Facilities
- 3 Assisted Living Facilities
- 4 Skilled Nursing Facilities
Serving residents in Fort Collins, Loveland, and Windsor, Columbine also operates key support services such as Columbine Medical Equipment, Poudre Home Care, Bloom at Home, Poudre Infusion Therapy, and Centre Pharmacy, along with Fleet Transportation Services and the Columbine Distribution Centre.
Every day, over 1,650 dedicated employees care for more than 1,450 residents and clients, many of whom have deep ties to northern Colorado.
A Commitment to Education & Community
Bob Wilson’s vision extends beyond care to fostering the future of gerontology. Since the early 1970s, Columbine has partnered with Colorado State University, hosting internships and sponsoring scholarships for students and employees in fields such as nursing, social work, pharmacy, pre-med, and healthcare administration.
In 2019, Bob and his wife, Kitty, further demonstrated their commitment to community health by establishing the Columbine Health Systems Center for Healthy Aging at CSU.
Northern Colorado’s Partner in Health
Columbine Health Systems’ growth is rooted in the unwavering support of the northern Colorado community. This generosity is repaid through contributions to local organizations, investments in education, and a shared commitment to making the region a thriving place to live, work, and age with dignity.
Ready to Experience the Columbine Health Difference?
Start your journey to exceptional care and vibrant living with Columbine Health. We offer personalized attention for recovery, retirement, or medical needs, enhancing your health and happiness. Experience our blend of compassionate care and community spirit. Contact us to explore tailored services for your unique needs and create a brighter future together.
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