A Living Model of Intergenerational Care

Nestled on 80 acres of forests, fields and biodynamic farmland in Chestnut Ridge, New York, The Fellowship Community offers a holistic, human-centered approach to elder care rooted in the spiritual philosophy of Anthroposophy. Founded in 1966 by physician Paul Scharff and his wife, Ann, the Fellowship was created in response to a growing concern that elder care was becoming increasingly routinized and impersonal. More than five decades later, it remains a vibrant, work-based, intergenerational community where elders are supported as whole human beings—body, soul and spirit.

Approximately 140 elder members, co-workers and their children live together on the rural campus, located about 30 miles northwest of New York City. The community blends independent living, meaningful work and shared cultural life to create an environment where elders feel valued, purposeful and deeply connected. A range of living options, including independent apartments, studios and private rooms with individualized support, allowss members to age in place with dignity and continuity of care.

Daily life at the Fellowship is rich with opportunity. Residents enjoy nourishing meals, therapeutic and medical services, and a lively cultural calendar that includes movement classes, music, films, lectures, study groups and seasonal celebrations. Lifelong learning is woven into the rhythm of the community, with hands-on experiences in speech arts, painting, pottery, woodworking, weaving, baking and biodynamic farming. Intergenerational collaboration is central, with young and old working, learning and growing together in service to one another and to the land.

“Our approach to elder care is deeply relational,” says Mia Bieber, admissions manager at Rudolf Steiner Fellowship Foundation, the nonprofit that oversees the community. “We believe it should foster joy, belonging and continued development. Here, the wisdom of the elders and the striving of the young meet in a way that enriches everyone.”

Guided by a mission to cultivate a social process worthy of our common humanity, the Fellowship emphasizes individualized care, meaningful work, continuing education and responsible stewardship of the earth. Biodynamic agriculture, cooperation with neighboring institutions of the Threefold Community, and a commitment to social renewal through equality, economic brotherhood and cultural freedom are integral to its vision.

The Fellowship continues to expand its legacy as a living model of intergenerational care—one that supports purpose, connection and growth throughout all phases of life. They are now accepting new member applications. 

Location: 241 Hungry Hollow Rd., Chestnut Ridge. For more information, call 845-356-8494, ext. 2, email [email protected] or visit FellowshipCommunity.org.