An Open Door to Connection
An Open Door to Connection at Rancho Mission Viejo
Rancho Mission Viejo, CA (February 6, 2026) – After living in Portland, Oregon, for more than four decades, Mindy Ranik made the move to Southern California in May 2024. With her son, daughter-in-law, and grandson living nearby in Ladera Ranch, Rancho Mission Viejo offered the perfect balance of independence and proximity to family.
A visit to Southern California made Mindy question her life in cold, rainy Portland, far from her family. During her visit, she began noticing Rancho Mission Viejo signage while driving through the area, which led her to explore further and ultimately purchase in one of the Village of Rienda’s Gavilán 55+ neighborhoods, Haven by Lennar. What followed was an immediate welcome.
“I had just moved in, didn’t know anyone yet and was still dealing with the chaos of moving, when I heard about the Gavilán Taco Tuesday night,” said Mindy. “When I arrived, I met someone who immediately introduced herself and everyone else to me. It was such a kind and welcoming gesture.”
That moment left a lasting impression and later inspired her to say ‘yes’ whenever she was asked to join a club, event, or volunteer opportunity – and that included the Gavilán Ambassador program.
The Ranch’s Gavilán Ambassador program consists of current residents who share their positive experiences, promote the active adult (55+) lifestyle, and showcase the amenities that make The Ranch such a great place to live. These ambassadors help highlight the community's focus on wellness and social connection.
“My experience living on The Ranch has been so positive that I felt like I wanted to give something back to the community that has given be so much. Being welcoming and friendly feels like a core value here,” Mindy added.
Since moving in, Mindy has embraced the active and social lifestyle at The Ranch. She participates in water aerobics three times a week, plays pickleball and mahjong, and is involved in several resident-led groups, including Social Singles, a neighborhood book club, a game group, and a knitting group. Mindy is actively involved with the community farm program and takes part in a variety of The Nature Reserve events, including regular nature walks, birding opportunities, and open nature programs. She has also participated in community service activities such as the Alzheimer’s Walk, which she attended alongside her son.
Within her own Gavilán neighborhood, lifelong relationships have formed through spontaneous gatherings and shared traditions: “We’ve had Thanksgiving meals, Memorial Day get-togethers, and informal happy hours that just come together on their own.”
For Mindy, building those connections starts with simply showing up. “You can’t stay behind a closed door,” she said. “You have to get out there. Sit by the pool. Say hello. Start a conversation.”
One of Mindy’s favorite parts about living on The Ranch is its gorgeous views and prime location in Southern California. “Every time I drive out of my neighborhood, I look at those beautiful mountains, and it fills me up with joy. People are genuinely grateful to live here. You hear it all the time. ‘We live in paradise.’”
Mindy added that beyond the natural beauty, it’s the opportunity for connection that defines life at The Ranch.
“People are searching for a sense of belonging and Rancho Mission Viejo provides so many opportunities to find that.”
