Santa Clara retirement community partners with Utah Tech for lifelong learning

ST. GEORGE — Santa Clara will soon be home to a brand new senior living center with the opening of the Snow Canyon Retirement Community this fall.

This image rendering shows what the outdoor amenities could be at the new facility, Santa Clara, Utah, June 6, 2024 | Photo courtesy of Ashley Gomez, St. George News

This facility is set to incorporate “lifelong learning” in partnership with Utah Tech’s Institute for Continued Learning.

Future education for residents is being planned by way of monthly on-site presentations, with classes available both in-person and via Zoom.

Snow Canyon Retirement Community Executive Director Colton Balmforth said their goal is to make lifelong learning accessible to anyone regardless of age, physical limitations, or existing cognitive issues.

“This was one of the very first partnerships we sought for the community,” Balmforth said. “We are most excited to offer unique events.”

Educational programs will initially be coordinated by Utah Tech Institute for Continued Learning Director Dr. Robert Kramer. The current plan is for future classes to be selected based on residents’ input.

Though the course instructors have not yet been named, it has been teased that many of them hold advanced degrees in the sciences, business and psychology.

Courses include:

  • The Gifts of Imperfection
  • America Adrift
  • Geology
  • History of Washington County
  • Walk with a Doc

About the community

Aside from that partnership, another unique feature of the property is the boutique size, which Kim Bankofier, consultant to Snow Canyon Retirement Community, said is a great benefit.

“This 55+ community is unparalleled for the location, offerings, and amenities,” Bankofier said.

Some exclusive amenities include several care options to age in place, valet parking, a 24-hour concierge and multiple dining venues.

This image rendering shows what the front of the property could look like, Santa Clara, Utah, June 6, 2024 | Photo courtesy of
Ashley Gomez, St. George News

“We will be offering an 18-hole Putting Course, Electric Vehicle Charging Stations, Saltwater Pool and Spa and Gallery Corridor,” Bankofier said. “Just to name a few.”

A press release issued by Snow Canyon Retirement Community said plans are in place to have a high volume of staff available for facility upkeep. Bankofier said they are being patient and seeking only the best candidates and that they are still hiring.

“We are attracting amazing talent given the elevated community setting and offerings,” Bankofier said.

The community will offer various living options, from private homes with universal design features to smaller apartment settings and an intimate memory care enclave with 15 private suites.

In total, it will feature 44 custom-designed homes with floor plans ranging from 2,500 to 3,100 square feet, available in eight different layouts. Residents will have the option to choose from independent living, assisted living, or memory care, allowing them to age in the same location as their needs change.

“Our age-in-place community offers residents the opportunity to be as active and independent as they wish,” Bankofier said. “Features include high ceilings, no steps, large door openings, and zero-threshold showers.”

For a full list of amenities, the Sales and Information Office is open Monday through Friday. For more information or to follow the community’s progress, visit their website.

Copyright St. George News, SaintGeorgeUtah.com LLC, 2024, all rights reserved.

Free News Delivery by Email

Would you like to have the day's news stories delivered right to your inbox every evening? Enter your email below to start!