Founder of local resource center helps seniors find perfect home

By Barbara Sherman

The Regal Courier, May 28, 2008, Updated Oct 30, 2009

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Nancy Raske has turned herself into a one-stop referral service for seniors and their family members.

She didn't know it at the time, but she started on that path in April 1989, when her mom who lived in King City had a massive stroke.

"That day changed my life," Raske said. "I did all my own research. I made phone calls. I took time off work. I was raising my son at the time and had to find the appropriate services for my mom.

"It was truly the good, the bad and the ugly. It was a turning point for me."

Raske's work background also contributed to her starting NW Senior Resources.

For nine years, she worked at Christ Episcopal Church in Lake Oswego, where she lives, as the parish administrator working with seniors.

"I was always the resource connector," Raske said. "And I wanted to get first-hand experience."

Farmington Square Centers then hired Raske to work in admissions and marketing. She also worked at other places before being hired as the assistant administrator when the Oswego Place retirement center opened 1½ years ago.

A year ago, Raske opened her own business, which primarily offers adult placement and referral services, "but I do more than just find appropriate housing," Raske said.

"I do a thorough analysis and can help with downsizing, moving, connecting with various specialists, setting up estate sales and lining up in-home care. I can also arrange for personal services such as in-home foot care."

However, Raske is quick to point out that placement and referrals are only the first half of her job.

"Once the person is settled, I visit," she said. "I make unannounced visits to all sorts of places. I'm a 'senior shopper.' I have a core group of people I use - because I get recognized - to see how far they can get into a facility.

"I need to know about the security and what the front office does. What questions are they asked? What is the interaction between the staff and clients? And I do periodic visits throughout the year to make sure they're doing OK. I don't just place them and leave."

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