The Outlook at Windhaven (OAW) is excited to announce a unique partnership with renowned chef, Tre Wilcox, as their Culinary Advisor. In collaboration with Thomas Cuisine, this exclusive pairing brings Chef Tre’s innovative culinary expertise to the brand-new senior living community, located in Plano, enriching the bistro dining experience with his passion for creating personalized, resident-focused menus.
Chef Tre, known for his impressive career, has an extensive background in fine dining and television, including appearances on Bravo’s Top Chef and Iron Chef America, where he triumphed alongside his mentor, Kent Rathbun. His professional journey, which began in a fast-food restaurant, led him to earn prestigious accolades such as a 5-star review at Abacus, an acclaimed fusion restaurant in Dallas, by age 29, multiple James Beard Foundation nominations and recognition as Best Chef by the Dallas Morning News.
In his consultant role as Culinary Advisor at OAW, Chef Tre’s expertise is instrumental in transforming the dining experience for OAW residents. Working closely with the Thomas Cuisine team, Chef Tre is focused on crafting diverse, high-quality meals that cater to the unique tastes and dietary preferences of the community. His guidance ensures that each meal is infused with creativity, offering residents a dining experience that goes beyond traditional senior living meals.
Chef Tre’s involvement represents a fresh and exciting direction for OAW’s culinary offerings, enhancing the flavor and overall dining experience. His collaboration with the team underscores OAW’s commitment to providing exceptional, personalized services that enrich the lives of its residents.
We are pleased to announce the addition of Shane Barnes to The Outlook at Windhaven (OAW) team as Director of Spiritual Life. In this role, Shane will provide spiritual care and guidance, along with emotional support to the residents, families and teammates at OAW.
Shane joins us with an extensive resume of pastoral care experience, including hospice care and a level one trauma center. Most recently, he worked at Grace Community Church as the Pastor of Care Ministry, serving there for the past 14 years.
Shane holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Dallas Bible College, a Master of Theology from Dallas Theological Seminary and a Doctor of Ministry from Southern Methodist University Perkins School of Theology.
“I have spent most of my life in pastoral care, providing spiritual support through the local church and serving as a chaplain for level one trauma centers as well as hospice. I am very excited about joining the team at OAW to cultivate opportunities for spiritual growth, develop personal relationships with our residents and make connections though our unique spiritual journeys,” shared Shane.
In his free time, you might find Shane enjoying a bowl of popcorn while watching the movie, The Notebook, playing golf or taking relaxing walks with his fiancé, Ashley, and their dog, Roux. He also loves strumming on his guitar to his favorite songs by The Eagles.
Please join us in welcoming Shane to The Outlook at Windhaven and Forefront Living family!
The Outlook at Windhaven (OAW) welcomed its first residents to the Assisted Living (AL) homes of the community! Dian Koper, OAW’s inaugural AL resident, moved from her own house in Aurora, Colorado, to OAW. Dian has a passion for staying active, loves engaging in community activities and enjoys spending time with her new neighbors. Also joining the OAW family are Sharon and Steve Brenner, a devoted couple married for 59 years and looking forward to celebrating their 60th anniversary this spring. Steve, a proud veteran, enjoys strolling the grounds with Sharon, taking time to explore every corner of the beautiful spaces. We are delighted to welcome these wonderful residents to OAW and look forward to providing them with a caring, supportive and vibrant living experience where they can truly feel at home.
Exciting News! The Outlook at Windhaven (OAW) is featured in Community Impact!
At OAW, we pride ourselves on offering a welcoming community that caters to every stage of senior living. From independent living to more advanced care, we’re here to ensure our residents feel supported, connected and truly at home.
Check out the feature to see how OAW is redefining senior living and creating an environment where each moment matters! Click here to read on Community Impact.
At The Outlook at Windhaven (OAW), a senior living community in Plano, togetherness is key. Designed to inspire vibrant living and meaningful connections, the community features three distinct options to meet residents’ needs: independent living in upscale apartment residences and charming cottages alongside assisted living and specialized memory support, both offered in comfortable apartments. These thoughtfully crafted choices provide residents with the precise care and support they require while enabling them to lead fulfilling lives. Additionally, this structure fosters a sense of individuality while ensuring everyone remains part of a warm and inclusive community.
The transition to senior living is a major life change, and it’s natural for many to feel hesitant. However, at OAW, these changes often become opportunities for new experiences, friendships and personal growth. No matter which level of care residents choose, they are welcomed into a warm and supportive environment designed to ease their transition and help them thrive.
“Our community life programs are the fun of The Outlook at Windhaven,” executive director Kristen Jordan said. “There are various activities and outings residents can participate in. There are different clubs that we’re starting up and different games residents like to play. They teach each other new games as well and get each other involved. It really creates a welcoming spirit here.”
A recent resident wedding—celebrated just months after the community’s opening—symbolizes the spirit of renewal that thrives at OAW. For those who have experienced the loss of a spouse, the community provides a safe space to heal, form new bonds and rediscover joy.
“It’s been great seeing the residents happy, seeing them thriving, seeing them building new friends in their circles. It really is very rewarding,” Jordan said.
The sense of togetherness extends far beyond daily activities. Early on, residents would gather in small groups during cocktail hours in the cottages. That quickly changed as they began pushing tables together, forming one large circle where everyone could share stories and laughter.
“Originally, people sat in their own little twosome or threesome, but it quickly evolved,” Jordan said. “The residents began pushing all the tables together in a big circle. There was not one person sitting by themselves. They were laughing, and we could really hear the happiness.”
This tradition continues to flourish in the main building, where ice cream socials and community events warmly welcome new residents and bring everyone closer.
The Outlook at Windhaven’s commitment to connection extends to families and loved ones. Staff members take pride in being a source of stability during uncertain times.
“Being there when things happen that make residents unsteady or scared, being that support for them and for their families, that’s been the most rewarding part for me,” Jordan said.
As the community grows, so does its reputation as a welcoming, compassionate place to call home. Prospective residents are encouraged to visit, meet the residents and see firsthand what makes The Outlook at Windhaven so special.
At The Outlook at Windhaven, it’s not just about finding a place to live—it’s about creating a life full of purpose, connection and belonging.
Earlier this month, The Outlook at Windhaven (OAW) residents enjoyed an exclusive tour of the Mary Kay Richard R. Rogers (R3) manufacturing facility located in Lewisville. The outing offered a behind-the-scenes look at the research, development and manufacturing processes behind Mary Kay’s renowned cosmetics. The R3 facility operates with more than 650 employees working around the clock, six days a week. Mary Kay has a global presence, spanning nearly 4,500 employees, two cutting-edge facilities, 18 distribution centers and 28 market satellite offices worldwide.
OAW’s halls are decked out with holiday cheer, featuring a beautifully adorned Christmas tree as the centerpiece of the main lobby. Stately nutcrackers stand tall to welcome residents and visitors, while seasonal poinsettias add a festive touch throughout the space.
OAW residents gathered in Outriders for a Boozy Shakes Social to enjoy delicious chocolate-covered cherry milkshakes with a holiday twist – they were spiked with Jim Beam Red Stag, a bourbon cherry liquor. The frosty treats brought a scoop of holiday cheer to these ice cream-loving residents.
Check out these festive photos from OAW’s Jingle and Mingle Happy Hour!
Angela Short joined The Outlook at Windhaven (OAW) as the Business Office Manager in June. In her role, she handles billing, closings and manages resident services, striving to make things run smoothly behind the scenes. We sat down with Angela to learn more about her through a fun question and answer session. Read about her below.
What are you passionate about regarding your professional role? I am passionate about getting to know each of our residents and learning as much as I can about AL, ILMS.
Favorite memory/moment to date during your time at OAW: One highlight for me was when a resident asked for a moment before we started her closing. She shared with me that she couldn’t believe the day had finally arrived, she had waited exactly 3.5 years for that moment. Another special milestone was celebrating our recent 100th closing.
What do you think sets OAW apart from other senior living communities? This is my first community to work with, but it feels like a family here.
What is something that makes you feel proud? Personally, going back to school to finish my master’s degree in human relations and business during COVID was a huge accomplishment for me. Professionally, I’m proud of recognizing that I wanted to change careers and taking that leap of faith to an industry I knew very little about. Share about your family: I adore my family! I’m blessed with amazing parents who have always been there providing advice, love and support. I have two fabulous sisters who I love spending time with, whether it’s going on adventures or sharing laughs. I also have two wonderful brothers-in-law who are so much fun to be around. I am a proud aunt to four smart, beautiful/handsome, loving kiddos/young adults. Rounding out my family is my fur baby, Bailey, who keeps me on my toes and ensures there’s never a dull moment.
Tell us about your hobbies: I love watching college sports – football, softball and baseball. I enjoy reading when time allows. I enjoy tapping into my creative side and I also love singing.
On the weekend, you can find me: Right now, you can usually find me working. Otherwise, I enjoy spending time with friends and family and volunteering.
What are some of your favorite foods and restaurants? I love Mexican or Italian food. My favorite dishes to order are manicotti, shrimp tacos or cheese enchiladas with extra spicy hot sauce.
How would your friends describe you? My friends would say I am a kind, creative, fun-loving friend who will always be there when they need me.
A celebration is in order at The Outlook at Windhaven (OAW), Forefront Living’s newest senior living community in Plano! This week, OAW achieved its 100th closing as John Thompson and Emily Martin finalized the paperwork to become official residents of our neighborhood. This milestone is a great indicator of our progress and we look forward to continuing to welcome more residents to our growing community. Congratulations to the John and Emily – we’re so happy you’re part of the OAW family!
Paddles were ready as two Forefront Living (FL) communities, The Outlook at Windhaven (OAW) and Presbyterian Village North (PVN), faced off for ultimate bragging rights at the first Pickleball Paddle Battle between the two entities on Nov. 22! Residents and teammates rallied at the PVN Pickleball Court, bringing lots of energy to cheer on teams as they went head-to-head to claim the trophy.
Representing PVN were teammates Dustin Allen, Heather Porch, Daisy Fuentes, Erik Stephens and the dynamic resident duo of Dave and Debbie Driscoll. The OAW team consisted of teammates Kristen Jordan, Charlotte Slaver, Katie Snezhkova and resident Jane Bowers to serve up some stiff competition.
Adding to the dill-lightful excitement was FL Corporate Director of Operations and special guest referee, Ke’o Velasquez, who kept things fair and entertaining in a kosher pickle costume!
After an intense showdown, the PVN team claimed the coveted Pickleball trophy and the title of reigning champs.
It was a fun morning with both teams showcasing their Pickleball skills and why they’re such a big dill in their communities!
