55+ Couple Found Community and Purpose
Finding Community and Purpose at Rancho Mission Viejo
Rancho Mission Viejo, CA (January 8, 2026) – After retiring nearly nine years ago, Ken Silverman and his wife relocated from Northern California to Southern California to be closer to their daughter in Riverside. They learned about a new community under construction after receiving a holiday card, which led them to Rancho Mission Viejo.
“A friend of mine sent out a Christmas card saying that they had just moved into a new community called Rancho Mission Viejo and that they absolutely loved it,” said Ken. “We made the trip down to check out the Village of Esencia, and at that point, there were still dirt lots and homes under construction but something about it just felt right to us.”
It didn’t take long before the couple made the decision to purchase a home at Lennar’s Avocet Gavilan 55+ neighborhood, just six doors down from their friends. Gavilán, The Ranch’s brand for the unique 55+ lifestyle and single-level living, allows residents to stay connected to every generation, while enjoying exclusive access to resort style amenities, events, and activities designed for those who enjoy a vibrant lifestyle. The single-level design perfectly suited their needs as they began retirement.
“As you get older, not having stairs becomes really important. And because we built the home from the ground up, my wife was able to select all the finishes and upgrades she wanted. From day one, it truly felt like our home,” said Ken.
Beyond the house, what stood out to them was the support system that they had gained amongst neighbors. “Our street has become incredibly close-knit over the years. If someone is recovering from surgery or needs help, neighbors step in without hesitation - meal trains, grocery runs, you name it. And it’s not only my street, I’ve also heard so many stories of others on The Ranch experiencing this same generosity,” said Ken.
That spirit of community is what defines life at Rancho Mission Viejo. “I didn’t realize how special that would be when we moved into a 55+ community, especially so far from where we started. That sense of support and belonging is unlike anything I’ve experienced anywhere else.”
Since retiring, Ken has fully embraced the active lifestyle and countless opportunities to get involved at The Ranch. Shortly after moving in, he found ways to stay engaged through volunteering.
“I’ve always enjoyed helping people, and this community makes it so easy to do that,” added Ken. Over the years, he has volunteered as a Fire Watch monitor during high-risk weather conditions, served as a school crossing guard, assisted at blood drives, helped lead organized community hikes with The Nature Reserve and supported popular events like the annual Turkey Trot. Ken is also a co-captain of his neighborhood watch to help keep neighbors informed, though he notes that crime is extremely rare. “We’re somewhat tucked away from the surrounding cities, which adds to the feeling of safety and peace here,” said Ken.
Beyond volunteering, Ken stays busy with the many resident-led clubs and Gavilán 55+ dedicated social activities. He plays pickleball at least three times a week, participates in two golf clubs, and regularly joins the community bike rides to the beach, just 8 miles away. “From taco nights and wine tastings at the community farms, outdoor concerts, holiday celebrations and organized day trips through RanchRide, the lifestyle offerings here are unmatched.”
When asked about what he loves the most about living on The Ranch, Ken doesn’t hesitate. “By far, it’s the sense of community. That, combined with the activities organized specifically for residents is what makes this place really feel like home.”
After nearly a decade, Ken and his wife say choosing The Ranch was one of the best decisions they’ve ever made.
For more information about Rancho Mission Viejo and Gavilán 55+ neighborhoods currently selling, visit: https://www.ranchomissionviejo...
