Building Community and Connection Through Movement

Rancho Mission Viejo, CA (May 28, 2026) – After retiring and relocating from Northern California with her husband more than eight years ago, Janet Schumacher found the vibrant community of Rancho Mission Viejo, close to nature and filled with opportunities to stay active and social.

The Schumacher’s live in a Gavilán 55+ neighborhood at the Village of Esencia, and enjoy the walkability of the community, the scenic surroundings, and an active lifestyle with neighbors who have become close friends.

“Rancho Mission Viejo has been the perfect fit since the beginning. What started as a beautiful place to live has truly become home. We have such a wonderful sense of community here and our street is very social. We host happy hours and spend a lot of time with our neighbors whom we have built meaningful friendships with,” said Janet.

Having worked in the health and fitness industry, Janet continues to share her passion for health and wellness by teaching pilates classes at The Hilltop Club amenity throughout the week.

“I love being able to go up to The Hilltop Club, teach pilates, and interact with my neighbors. It allows me to continue doing something I love while also giving back to the community,” added Janet.

In addition to staying active through fitness, Janet has recently rediscovered her passion for dance. After dancing throughout her childhood and beginning college as a dance major, Janet stepped away from dance to pursue a career in health and fitness. In 2023, an opportunity to audition for a special program reignited that passion.

The America's Golden Dream Dancers (AGDD) is a nationwide team, made up of women 50 years and older, that perform around the world at major events and commemorative ceremonies. Since joining the group, Janet has performed at destinations including Disneyland, Cruise ships, DisneyWorld, Pearl Harbor, Normandy, and Paris.

“Being a part of AGDD is really the perfect combination of my love of travel and my passion for dance,” said Janet. “But even more than that, the sisterhood I’ve created with women across the nation who all share this joy of performing is what makes it most worthwhile.”

The experience has become even more meaningful because four fellow Gavilán 55+ residents living on The Ranch are also part of AGDD parade unit alongside Janet. This summer, they will travel together to Washington D.C. to perform and march in the National Independence Day Parade, celebrating America’s 250th anniversary. They will also perform for The Ranch community during the upcoming Red, White and Blue Bash on June 27th .

“It’s been so special to share this experience with neighbors and friends from The Ranch,” said Janet. “We get to travel together, rehearse together, and celebrate something so meaningful together!”

When Janet’s not teaching pilates or rehearsing for performances, she enjoys many of the RanchLife activities and amenities throughout the community, including the bimonthly farmers market, outdoor concerts and the various walking trails.

“My husband and I love the lifestyle here. We’re close to nature and the beach. But more than anything, it’s the people and the sense of belonging that makes this place so special. Rancho Mission Viejo makes it easy to stay active and connected.”