Resident of the Year

Every year Retirement Housing Foundation honors a resident (sometimes two, we have a lot of great people living in our communities!) from one of our communities who, through their actions and deeds, have enhanced the lives of their fellow residents. These individuals’ actions are very rarely limited to their RHF community; more often than not, they are also active members of their church and various civic groups.

We invite you to meet these honorees and see why they are making a difference in the communities they live in.

2026 Resident of the Year

Deanna Morgan
Virginia Park, Des Moines, Iowa

Deanna Morgan

Deanna has lived in Virginia Park since 2004. In that time, she has become the heart of the community. Some residents call her “Mama Dee” because she looks after everyone as if they were her own children. She has made it known to the other residents that they can come to her with anything, whether they need a listening ear or they’re missing an ingredient for a meal, Deanna is always there for them. She plans and hosts nearly all community events, including Project H.A.N.D.S. activities and she also serves as the president of the resident association.

Her connection to Virginia Park is deeply personal. As someone who once had no income and was facing an incredibly uncertain situation, Deanna found stability, safety, and a place to call home. Deanna has built a true sense of community at Virginia Park and continues to make a meaningful impact on the lives of everyone around her. As she puts it, “I feel so blessed to be able to live here, everyone that lives here is family to me.”

RHF is pleased to present Deanna Morgan with the 2026 Resident of the Year Award.

Congratulations to all of our past award recipients!

2025 — Kyle House, Robert Hamm
2024 – Sherry Smiley
2023 – Cheryl Barker
2020 – Marvin Hesse
2019 – Keum Bok Choi
2018 – Pamela Mendez
2017 – Shirley “Bunny” Weston
2016 – Barbara Sebree
2015 – Marjorie Grommé
2013 – Tina Pallitto
2012 – Elsie Dixon
2011 – Boneata Kautz
2010 – Bob & Esther Olson
2009 – Charlie Gregoire
2008 – Grace Jirovetz
2007 – Catherine Veney
2006 – Betty Flanders
2006 – Frances Pierce