25 years of Aging Well
The history of Elim Village
As we celebrate 25 years of Elim Village, we pause to reflect on a journey rooted in faith, vision, and the unwavering belief that seniors deserve a place to thrive within a caring Christian community. What began in 1991 as a small Bible study discussion has grown into two vibrant villages offering a continuum of housing and care—built on trust, partnership, and prayer.
This timeline traces the milestones, challenges, and triumphs that have shaped Elim Village over the years. Each date represents the dedication of countless volunteers, staff, residents, and supporters who nurtured a vision into reality. From the planting of the first seeds to the expansion into Chilliwack and the creation of innovative living spaces, Elim’s story is one of perseverance, partnership, and purpose.
As you explore this timeline, we invite you to celebrate the many hands and hearts that have contributed to Elim’s growth. May it inspire gratitude for the past, joy in the present, and hope for the future.
With gratitude,
Ron Pike, CEO
1991
Planting the Seed
A Bible study on the Book of James sparked a bold idea: a Christian community where spouses could age together. By the end of 1991, the first “Senior Home Exploratory Meeting” was held and the group formed the unofficial Elim Foundation, its name inspired by Exodus 15:27.
1994
Taking root
Land and start-up funds were needed to move forward, and early supporters stepped in with contributions. With help from businessmen and an architect, a business plan was developed. On August 3, 1994, The Elim Foundation was officially incorporated, and the committee became its first Board of Directors.
1995
Weathering the challenges
Raising funds and securing land proved difficult. In September 1995, supporters invested through a Limited Partnership, raising $1.8 million. In October, the Elim Housing Society was established. Despite setbacks—overpriced lots and competing developers—the Board remained determined to bring a Christian retirement community to life.
1997
A sprout emerges
In 1997, Burnaby Lake Greenhouses Ltd., supporting Elim’s vision, agreed to sell its land in phases. Legal work and rezoning began, and plans were presented to Surrey City Hall, receiving positive support. With land secured, fundraising grew through bonds, promissory notes, and RRSPs.
1999
Facing a storm
During rezoning, the Elim community faced resistance from the Fleetwood neighbourhood. In 1998, the Board hired an Executive Director to manage public relations. Despite delays, a key public hearing in June 1999 led Surrey City Council to approve the application, prompting supporters to break out in praise to the Lord.
2000
Breaking ground
On June 10, 2000, over 200 supporters braved the rain for Elim Village’s groundbreaking. With rezoning and legal hurdles cleared, construction began: foundations were poured, utilities installed, and the North Duplexes and The Bowron rose. Early reservations on units marked the transition from vision to reality.
2001
Village life begins
Elim officially became a “village” on April 7, 2001, as the first residents moved in. Supporters gathered to celebrate and give thanks to God. By the end of the year, 67 seniors called Elim home while construction continued on The Atlin and South Duplexes.
2003
Roots of care
As construction began on The Emerald, Elim’s Assisted Living building, a new structure was needed to oversee care services. In 2003, the Elim Christian Care Society was established to manage assisted living and future long-term care, enabling collaboration with government and partners while keeping the community’s faith-based mission central.
2005
Blessed with new growth
The Emerald welcomed its first residents in August 2005. New partnerships were launched with Marquise Hospitality Services and the Fraser Health Authority, and a dedicated care team was hired. This milestone expanded housing and care options while upholding Elim’s mission to provide multiple levels of care in a Christian community.
2008
Bearing fruit
Elim Village expanded with the completion of The Oasis amenity building and auditorium as a new social hub, and the purchase of the North Property. Residents moved into The Carmanah and The Diamond buildings, while a mini-bus, worship services, landscaping, memorial benches, and the Harrison Therapeutic Garden enhanced community life.
2009
Vision matures
In March 2009, The Harrison opened, adding Full Care to the Fleetwood campus. Partners and supporters gathered to celebrate reaching this third major milestone. Partnerships with the Fraser Health Authority and others provided seniors with a seamless range of living options in a Christian community.
2012
Exemplary recognition
Elim Village achieved Accreditation with Exemplary Standing from Accreditation Canada—one of the highest distinctions in senior living. This recognition affirmed Elim’s commitment to innovation and excellence in governance, safety, and quality of care, reflecting the dedication of staff and leadership to continuous improvement and compassionate service rooted in Christian values.
2014
Branching out
Chilliwack emerged as the ideal location for a second Elim campus, after discussions with the former Ebenezer Senior Home Society and community members. Public meetings confirmed strong demand for another Christian seniors’ community. The Elim Housing (Chilliwack) Society was formed, and an eight-acre site in Garrison Crossing was acquired.
2018
A second home
Elim Village celebrated another milestone with the opening of The Sequoia, the first Independent Living building at the new Garrison Crossing campus in Chilliwack. The Sequoia welcomed its first residents in 2018, bringing the Elim vision of faith, community, and care to the Fraser Valley.
2020
Faith through uncertainty
When the COVID-19 pandemic struck in 2020, Elim Village faced unprecedented challenges. Staff and residents adapted to changing health protocols, visitor restrictions, and isolation with resilience and faith. Despite difficulties, the community’s spirit of care and compassion endured, with acts of kindness and creativity sustaining hope through uncertain times.
2022
A new way to live well
The first residents moved into The Hawthorn at Garrison Crossing on August 3, 2022. This building introduced a new Independent Plus Living housing model. With inviting dining spaces, a spa, vibrant common areas, and on-site Home Care, The Hawthorn quickly became a lively hub of connection and convenience.
2026
Building the future
A year of exciting developments lies ahead. In Chilliwack, The Cedar, the last Independent Living building at Garrison Crossing, opens. In Surrey, construction begins on The Garibaldi, the final Independent Living building at Fleetwood. Both milestones complete major phases in Elim’s long-term vision.
Future
Reaching ahead
Elim’s story continues to unfold in faith and hope. Future plans in Chilliwack include a new amenity building and adding Full Care, fulfilling the aging in place mission. Reflecting a rich heritage, Elim moves forward with gratitude for the past and trust in what is yet to come. Great is God’s faithfulness!
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