“We look out for each other.” - A Victorian Village Testimonial

From her early days working at her family’s Texaco station to a career in accounting, caregiving, and community service, Rita Carlson has dedicated her life to helping others. Now, as a resident of Victorian Village, she continues to make a difference, proving that purpose and generosity know no age.  

Rita’s journey is one of resilience. At age 10, she started working with her parents, selling pop, maps, and pumping gas. Her passion for numbers led her to study accounting and work in banking and government auditing. Later, she transitioned to the Social Security Administration, managing financial cases and medical records. However, when her mother needed full-time care, Rita left her career to become her caregiver for 15 years. 

After caring for her mother, she became a live-in companion for a close family friend, managing household affairs and finances. When his health declined, Rita once again found herself in a caregiving role until his passing. Eventually, her own health challenges led her to seek assisted living, bringing her to Victorian Village.  

Rita’s legs had weakened, so she required a wheelchair. Through months of dedicated exercise and working closely with the Victorian Village Symbria fitness staff, she gradually rebuilt her strength.

“I started with small steps, but over time, I could walk again,” she said.

The structured exercise classes played a key role in her recovery, and today, she walks without assistance.

Rita has become an invaluable part of the community. As an active volunteer, she assists with resident activities, delivers birthday cards, helps those with visual impairments during games, and even sets up for exercise classes. “I’m so grateful to be mobile again, and I just want to give back,” she said. 

Rita’s deep-rooted sense of service has made Victorian Village feel like home. She takes pride in welcoming new residents, often going out of her way to help others.

“This community is special because we look out for each other,” she said. “When you can’t do something alone, there’s always someone here to help.”  

Through her kindness, resilience, and willingness to serve, Rita embodies the spirit of Victorian Village, where every individual has something valuable to contribute.