The Rudolf Steiner Fellowship Foundation, located in Chestnut Ridge, New York, is a nonprofit senior living community that primarily offers assisted living services, supporting residents who require comprehensive assistance with bathing, eating, dressing, and toileting. The community is recognized for its ability to accommodate individuals with psychiatric challenges, as well as for its inclusive approach to care with independent living and memory care options. The campus is situated on over 80 acres of scenic woodlands and gardens, providing a tranquil, natural setting that enhances residents’ quality of life.
Guided by the principles of anthroposophy, the Fellowship Community emphasizes holistic wellness, integrating physical, emotional, and spiritual care. Residents benefit from a variety of amenities, such as private and semi-private apartments featuring views of the surrounding landscape, accessible layouts, and personalized furnishings. The grounds include walking paths, an organic biodynamic farm, a dairy barn, and a working craft studio. Communal spaces like a library, dining hall, art studio, and music room foster opportunities for socializing and creative engagement.
Residents are encouraged to actively participate in daily life through a rich calendar of cultural programs, seasonal festivals, and educational workshops. Activities range from woodworking, pottery, and weaving to gardening, beekeeping, and culinary arts using farm-fresh produce. Gardening activities take place in the community’s extensive vegetable and flower gardens, while access to onsite farm animals—including cows, sheep, goats, and chickens—offers therapeutic and intergenerational experiences. Additionally, regular gatherings such as musical performances, lectures, and holiday celebrations promote a vibrant community spirit.
The Fellowship Community is noted for its unique integration of art and movement therapies, including eurythmy (an expressive movement art), painting, sculpture, and music therapy. These offerings support cognitive engagement and emotional well-being, particularly for residents in the memory care program. The community also provides access to alternative therapies like massage, hydrotherapy, and nature walks, furthering its holistic approach to health.
A distinctive feature of the community is its collaborative model, where residents, staff—referred to as “co-workers”—and administration live and work together in a model that promotes mutual respect, shared responsibility, and meaningful relationships. Meals are served family-style, often incorporating produce from the onsite farm, and daily rhythms are designed to foster a sense of belonging and purpose.
The Fellowship Community’s holistic philosophy extends beyond traditional medical support, addressing the social, emotional, and spiritual needs of every resident. Medical care is overseen by an onsite health team, which includes registered nurses and visiting physicians, and is complemented by individualized care plans and wellness monitoring. The community also assists residents with transportation to offsite medical appointments and offers pharmacy coordination services.
As of 2024, the Rudolf Steiner Fellowship Foundation has maintained its core offerings and has not reported any major changes or expansions to its services, continuing its tradition of compassionate, holistic care in a supportive, intergenerational environment.
Costs at this community start at $7,780 and range up to $7,780. The average price in the community is $7,780, which is less than the average price in the area of $8,221. The cost of assisted living in this area is essentially the same as the cost throughout the state. If the resident needs other services, additional services may increase the monthly cost.
