Evergreen Retirement Community expands its presence in Fox Valley with new acquisition

Evergreen Retirement Community has taken another step in its expansion in the Fox Valley region with the purchase of a 43-acre property in Neenah, Wisconsin, formerly occupied by Kimberly-Clark. With this acquisition, Evergreen seeks to meet the growing demands for senior housing in the area.

According to Ken Arneson, president and CEO of Evergreen, the organization had already envisioned this growth opportunity. “With the support of the Evergreen Board of Directors, this acquisition is our opportunity to grow and serve a new community,” said Arneson.

Kimberly-Clark occupied the site for many years, opening its headquarters in 1956. In 1985, the company moved its headquarters to another address, but kept offices there until 2021, when its executive team was relocated to Chicago. The value of the sale was not disclosed, although the property was initially put up for sale for less than $10 million.

Evergreen plans to transform the large 178,004-square-foot building into a space dedicated to independent and assisted living housing for seniors. In addition, the project includes the construction of new residences, a wellness center with a gym and swimming pool, event spaces and a place for worship.

The property, which sits on the shores of Little Lake Butte des Morts, offers a privileged location, close to parks and with easy access to Highway 41, connecting the community to various amenities in the area. Evergreen is working on the project in partnership with the Village of Fox Crossing and an architectural firm specializing in senior living design located in Wauwatosa.

The building, designed by renowned architect Bruce Graham, was an important work in the past, with the same professional responsible for icons such as the Willis Tower (formerly the Sears Tower) and the John Hancock Building in Chicago.