More than 33 depositors have reserved spots at Humboldt Commons in the first 30 days since the approval, reflecting strong demand and community support.
McKinleyville, CA – (September 10, 2026) – Humboldt Commons, a nonprofit senior living community and Kendal Affiliate in Development in Humboldt County, California, has seen early momentum since the community announced state approval to accept 10% reservation deposits.
Since receiving approval from the California Department of Social Services, Humboldt Commons has seen strong early interest from the community. In the first 30 days, 33 depositors have committed to reserving a home at the community upon opening.
Those who make a 10% deposit are considered “Original Groundbreakers,” or “OGs,” to recognize them as early adopters of the community.
Future residents are making a commitment and embracing the opportunity to help shape a new community for the common good, while looking ahead to living among friends and neighbors with services and amenities that support independence and connection.
“My husband and I have lived here in Humboldt County, arriving in 1976,” says Diane Sharples, future resident. “When I learned about Humboldt Commons and what is planned, I thought – this is for me! I will be relinquishing all the work of maintaining my home, and I’ll be joining a community of my Humboldt County friends and neighbors. The closer we get it to being a reality, the more I cherish the idea of the move.”
The project, which will be funded through tax-exempt bonds, is led by Life Plan Humboldt, a local board of directors that founded Humboldt Commons, in partnership with The Kendal Corporation.
Humboldt Commons will feature 109 cottages, apartments, and shared community spaces for active adults aged 62 and older. The community timeline includes construction beginning in 2027 and welcoming residents in 2029.
“Reaching this milestone so soon after launching 10% deposits is a powerful reflection of how deeply this vision resonates with people in Humboldt County,” says Ann Lindsay, president of Life Plan Humboldt. “We are excited to continue stepping forward in creating a community where community members can continue living with independence, joy and connection.”
Early depositors, or OG’s, are excited about the different home types that are available and the opportunity to meet their neighbors before the community is built.
“Being able to sit on the porch of a cottage to greet people in the community or walk over to common spaces to engage with people sounds wonderful,” says Pam Brown, future resident. “Being aware of some of the challenges of aging, I look forward to helping others when they are in need and seeking other’s assistance during the moments in my life when I could use a bit of help.”
Broad Support for Humboldt Commons
The momentum with new depositors is matched by continued support from local leaders who view Humboldt Commons as an important way for older adults to stay in Humboldt County.
Natalie Arroyo, Humboldt County Supervisor for District 4, has supported the project from day one.
“I am delighted to see this project moving forward,” says Natalie. “It’s an important piece of our housing picture and will provide a sense of community and care for people of a wide variety of incomes and backgrounds as they age in Humboldt.”
Steve Madrone, the outgoing Humboldt County Supervisor for District 5, also supported the project through its early stages.
“Humboldt Commons will put a roof over many seniors’ heads, a garden at their feet and a community of support all around,” Steve says.
Mary Burke, who will succeed Steve as Humboldt County Supervisor for District 5, reflects on what Humboldt Commons will mean for the community, saying, “Humboldt Commons is an inspiring project that promotes health and belonging by allowing elders to downsize while staying connected in our north coast community.”
“I look forward to the wisdom and engagement these residents continue to bring to McKinleyville and our entire region,” adds Mary.
A Model Designed for Long-Term Needs
Humboldt Commons will use a Type C, or fee-for service, contract designed to provide residents with greater flexibility in how they plan and pay for future care.
Residents will pay a one-time Entrance Fee and a monthly fee that covers services and amenities, with additional care paid for if and when it is needed rather than prepaying for a lifetime of care.
If a resident later needs assisted living or memory care services, Humboldt Commons will provide on-site hourly care for basic needs such as bathing, dressing, and medication management. For residents who need a higher level of care, the community has entered a Memorandum of Understanding with nearby Timber Ridge Assisted Living to provide preferred placement for residents, helping ensure access to options as needs change.
Approximately 80 depositors will have the opportunity to secure an 80% repayable Entrance Fee, which means 80% of the Entrance Fee is returned to the resident or their estate when the residency ends. This allows residents to plan for the future while preserving a substantial asset for their families.
“As a Life Plan community, Humboldt Commons provides a predictable payment structure and security in knowing that resources and care are available if and when you need them,” says Amy Harrison, Chief Financial Officer of The Kendal Corporation. “You get to enjoy your community knowing it stands on a solid financial footing, with real safeguards in place.”
To learn more about Humboldt Commons, including the benefits of securing a spot in the community with a 10% deposit, visit https://humboldt.kendal.org/faqs/.
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About Humboldt Commons
Humboldt Commons is a nonprofit senior living community in development in McKinleyville, California, designed for active adults aged 62 and older. As a Kendal Affiliate in Development, Humboldt Commons combines local leadership from Life Plan Humboldt with the support and expertise of Kendal, a nationally recognized nonprofit senior living organization. The community emphasizes purposeful aging, resident-driven design and inclusivity. For more information, visit humboldt.kendal.org.
About The Kendal Corporation (TKC)
The Kendal Corporation is a not-for-profit organization that supports a system of communities and services for older adults. Founded on Quaker principles, the organization is dedicated to transforming the aging experience through lifelong learning, community engagement and a commitment to excellence in service. Ten Kendal Affiliates across nine (9) states offer a range of services, including Life Plan Communities, Life Plan Community at Home, independent living, assisted living, memory support, long-term care, and skilled care options. Kendal Affiliates are in New Hampshire, New York, Massachusetts, Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Kentucky, and California.
For further information, visit kendal.org.