Learn About Kendal-Crosslands Communities
Kendal~Crosslands Communities is a not-for-profit Life Plan Community (formerly known as a Continuing Care Retirement Community) located in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania. Founded on Quaker values, we offer Independent Living cottages and apartments, Personal Care, and Skilled Nursing all nestled on over 500 acres of rolling countryside in the heart of the Brandywine Valley.
Values and PracticesIn carrying out our mission, our primary objective is to establish and maintain integrity and excellence in all aspects of our work. In doing so, we are guided by the following values:
Values and PracticesIn carrying out our mission, our primary objective is to establish and maintain integrity and excellence in all aspects of our work. In doing so, we are guided by the following values:
- A Sense of Community
- Continuing Learning
- Welcoming Diversity
- Wellness Programs and Health Care Services
- Environmental Stewardship
- Physical Settings
- Financial Integrity
- Staff Relations, Maintaining a High Quality Work Experience
- Active Role in the Field of Aging
- Community Outreach
- Growth and Development, Opportunities for Service
- Culture of Generosity
News from Kendal-Crosslands
A Living Legacy: The Story Behind the Named Spaces in Kendal at Longwood’s Reimagined Health Center
At Kendal~Crosslands Communities, our values go beyond words—they are embodied in the lives of those who have shaped our community and inspired our mission. As we gradually unveil the newly reimagined Kendal at Longwood Health Center, each named space tells a story of courage, compassion, and a commitment to human dignity. We are happy to share those stories with you.
The Hannah Freeman House and Garden
The Hannah Freeman House and Garden honors a Lenni Lenape healer who was born on Bennetts Run near the border where Kendal at Longwood’s property meets Longwood Gardens. Her life showcases the deep wisdom rooted in indigenous traditions. Hannah’s skill with medicinal plants and spiritual healing reflects a holistic approach to wellness—one that considers harmony with nature essential for healing the whole person. Her legacy encourages us to care for both body and spirit and to respect the land and its original stewards.
The Jill Blakeslee House
The Jill Blakeslee House honors a trailblazing former Director of Nursing at Kendal at Longwood, who revolutionized elder care by founding “Untie the Elderly.” Jill’s advocacy for restraint-free care was inspired by personal experience and driven by a belief in the dignity of every individual. Her efforts led to nationwide reform and set a new standard for compassionate care – one that continues to guide our practice today.
The Elizabeth Gray Vining House
The Elizabeth Gray Vining House honors a former resident and Quaker humanitarian who built bridges between cultures in postwar Japan. As a tutor to the emperor’s son and a voice for peace, Elizabeth demonstrated how quiet leadership and empathy can heal even the deepest wounds. Her life reminds us of the strength of internationalism and the importance of recognizing our shared humanity across borders.
The Sylvia Shaw Judson Gallery Walk
The Sylvia Shaw Judson Gallery Walk celebrates an artist and former resident whose sculptures grace public spaces across the United States. At Kendal at Longwood, her work and leadership in the craft studios helped create a community where art is more than decoration—it’s a source of spiritual nourishment. Her belief in the beauty of well-crafted objects continues to inspire residents to create, reflect, and grow.
The Barbara Gittings & Kay Lahusen Reading Room
The Barbara Gittings & Kay Lahusen Reading Room honors two pioneers and former residents in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights. Barbara’s fearless advocacy and Kay’s documentation of the movement laid the foundation for a more inclusive society. Their presence at Kendal at Longwood reminds us that justice and love go hand in hand and that our community thrives when everyone is free to be themselves.
The values embodied by these honorees are not just historic, they are reflected daily in the caring work of the staff. Like Hannah, caregivers understand that healing involves more than medicine; it’s about nurturing the whole person. Jill’s legacy continues in the dignity and freedom experienced by residents. Elizabeth’s spirit of empathy and cultural sensitivity is reflected in how staff build trust and connection across diverse backgrounds. Sylvia’s belief in the spiritual power of creativity is mirrored in the encouragement staff give residents to explore and grow. And, the inclusive values championed by Barbara and Kay are evident in the welcoming and affirming environment we create each day.
Collectively, these valued spaces, their stories, and names form a tapestry of principles. They are more than memorials; they challenge us all. How will we continue to uphold these values? How will we shape our future with the same courage and care? In every corner of the newly reimagined health center, the spirit of these honorees lives on. And in every act of kindness, every moment of connection, we carry their legacy forward.
The Hannah Freeman House and Garden
The Hannah Freeman House and Garden honors a Lenni Lenape healer who was born on Bennetts Run near the border where Kendal at Longwood’s property meets Longwood Gardens. Her life showcases the deep wisdom rooted in indigenous traditions. Hannah’s skill with medicinal plants and spiritual healing reflects a holistic approach to wellness—one that considers harmony with nature essential for healing the whole person. Her legacy encourages us to care for both body and spirit and to respect the land and its original stewards.
The Jill Blakeslee House
The Jill Blakeslee House honors a trailblazing former Director of Nursing at Kendal at Longwood, who revolutionized elder care by founding “Untie the Elderly.” Jill’s advocacy for restraint-free care was inspired by personal experience and driven by a belief in the dignity of every individual. Her efforts led to nationwide reform and set a new standard for compassionate care – one that continues to guide our practice today.
The Elizabeth Gray Vining House
The Elizabeth Gray Vining House honors a former resident and Quaker humanitarian who built bridges between cultures in postwar Japan. As a tutor to the emperor’s son and a voice for peace, Elizabeth demonstrated how quiet leadership and empathy can heal even the deepest wounds. Her life reminds us of the strength of internationalism and the importance of recognizing our shared humanity across borders.
The Sylvia Shaw Judson Gallery Walk
The Sylvia Shaw Judson Gallery Walk celebrates an artist and former resident whose sculptures grace public spaces across the United States. At Kendal at Longwood, her work and leadership in the craft studios helped create a community where art is more than decoration—it’s a source of spiritual nourishment. Her belief in the beauty of well-crafted objects continues to inspire residents to create, reflect, and grow.
The Barbara Gittings & Kay Lahusen Reading Room
The Barbara Gittings & Kay Lahusen Reading Room honors two pioneers and former residents in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights. Barbara’s fearless advocacy and Kay’s documentation of the movement laid the foundation for a more inclusive society. Their presence at Kendal at Longwood reminds us that justice and love go hand in hand and that our community thrives when everyone is free to be themselves.
The values embodied by these honorees are not just historic, they are reflected daily in the caring work of the staff. Like Hannah, caregivers understand that healing involves more than medicine; it’s about nurturing the whole person. Jill’s legacy continues in the dignity and freedom experienced by residents. Elizabeth’s spirit of empathy and cultural sensitivity is reflected in how staff build trust and connection across diverse backgrounds. Sylvia’s belief in the spiritual power of creativity is mirrored in the encouragement staff give residents to explore and grow. And, the inclusive values championed by Barbara and Kay are evident in the welcoming and affirming environment we create each day.
Collectively, these valued spaces, their stories, and names form a tapestry of principles. They are more than memorials; they challenge us all. How will we continue to uphold these values? How will we shape our future with the same courage and care? In every corner of the newly reimagined health center, the spirit of these honorees lives on. And in every act of kindness, every moment of connection, we carry their legacy forward.
Independent Living at Kendal at Longwood and Crosslands
Crosslands
Located off Route 926, between Route 52 and Parkersville Road, this Life Plan Community offers cottages and apartments with stunning open views of the landscape. Take a Virtual Tour |
Kendal at Longwood
Our first Life Plan Community, located off of U.S. Route 1, adjacent to Longwood Gardens, offers unique residential-style cottages reminiscent of an English village. Take a Virtual Tour 
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50+ Communities With A Difference
Named after beautiful communities in the Lake District in England, Coniston and Cartmel are two of the four campuses that are a part of the Kendal~Crosslands Communities. Both Coniston and Cartmel provide maintenance-free, independent living for people 50 and older, as well as services and amenities not available in most other active adult communities. Coniston and Cartmel residents live in comfortable, well-designed carriage homes, nestled among mature trees and sweeping meadows. Learn More |
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Benefits Of Living At Coniston Or Cartmel
If you are looking for something more than just 50+ living, then Coniston and Cartmel may be just what you’re searching for! As with many 50+ communities, exterior maintenance is included, but at Coniston and Cartmel we include interior maintenance of the home as well. If something of ours breaks, leaks, or just needs repair, you only have one call to make, and we will be over to remedy the problem. Residents can enjoy amenities like weekly housekeeping and linen service without the added expense of a Life Care contract. Residents of Coniston and Cartmel enjoy the use of the many amenities available on the Kendal at Longwood and Crosslands campuses, including fitness centers, indoor pools, exercise rooms, libraries, and programs. Each community has its own residents’ association through which residents participate in the operation of various aspects of the community. Learn More |
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At Kendal~Crosslands Communities, there are many different careers from nursing to administration, from culinary services to working on our 500 acres with the grounds crew. Meet Casey Groff, our Grounds Crew Leader and staff horticulturist who cares for our campuses in collaboration with residents. Read more about how Casey works with new residents to choose the floral aspects of their home, beautifying our campus and inspiring their lifestyle.
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Lisa Marsilio | CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Lisa is the Chief Executive Officer for Kendal~Crosslands Communities. Her visionary leadership is responsible for the strategic planning, financial and budgetary management, resident services, and quality healthcare programs for the community.
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Donna Taylor | CHIEF HEALTH SERVICES OFFICER
Donna has been the Chief Health Services Officer since April 2016. Prior, she served in several leadership and management positions over the past thirty two years as a Nursing Home Administrator, Executive Director, and Vice President of Operations.
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Kendal~Crosslands Communities
P.O. Box 100, Kennett Square, PA 19348 Phone: 610.388.1441 | Web page: Kendal~Crosslands Communities |
