Built on Purpose, Not on Profit
In a recent conversation with Suzanne Newman, host of Answers for Elders, Chateau Retirement Communities CEO and President Jim Godfrey shared a deeply personal story: what it’s like to live in the senior living community he founded more than two decades ago.
Jim, now a resident himself, reflected on his experience after 16 months of living at Chateau. “I’ve gotten to know so many of the residents,” he shared. “And you know what’s surprised me? Everyone keeps telling me how much they love it here. They love the staff, they love the food, they love the lifestyle. I thought I’d have people at my door every day with complaints—but that hasn’t happened.”
What sets Chateau apart from other senior living communities in Washington State is its mission-driven philosophy. Jim’s leadership has always centered around people—not profits.
“We’ve never been about maximizing the bottom line at the expense of our residents,” Jim said. “Of course, we operate efficiently and maintain financial stability, but we’re not going to raise rates 15–20% just to meet a corporate target. That’s not who we are.”
At Chateau Retirement Communities—family-owned and operated with locations in Bothell, Lynnwood, and Renton—the focus is always on resident well-being, community, and choice.
A Personalized Approach to Senior Living
“When someone moves in, we take the time to get to know them,” Jim explained. “Our goal is to help each resident build the lifestyle they want—one that keeps them healthier, happier, and socially connected. That could mean introducing them to other veterans, encouraging new friendships, or helping them explore hobbies they’ve always loved.”
Unlike traditional senior housing models that feel institutional, Chateau’s approach is highly personalized. “When I first got into this industry,” Jim recalled, “I thought, ‘Why does senior living feel like an army barracks?’ Everyone on the same schedule, same routine. I wanted to build something different—something where people could live life on their own terms.”
And that vision became reality.
From Founder to Resident
Jim’s decision to move into Chateau himself speaks volumes about the community he helped build. “It just feels good,” he said. “There’s a real joy in seeing the impact we’re making—giving people who built this country a place to thrive in their later years.”
That sense of purpose is what drew Jim into the senior living field in the first place. “It’s meaningful work,” he said. “Helping older adults live peaceful, vibrant lives is what kept me in the business all these years.”
Looking to the Future: A Family Legacy
As Chateau celebrates over 25 years of service, the future is in good hands—literally. Jim’s daughter Tamra is now part of the leadership team, continuing the family tradition.
“I always hoped one of my children would want to carry this forward,” Jim said. “Tamra came back to the company with a psychology degree and an MBA, and I’m confident she’ll lead us into the next generation with the same heart and integrity.”
