Our Story

A Place to Feel Supported, Comfortable, and at Home

Westwood Place is an independent assisted living residence built around one simple belief: Everyone deserves a place they can call home.

Our Story

For more than three decades Westwood Place has been proud to serve seniors and families and the welcoming community of Watertown, Minnesota. Since opening in 1988, Our mission has remained simple: provide, a comfortable, supportive environment where residents can maintain their independence, build meaningful relationships, and truly feel at home.

Westwood place is more than an assisted living community. It is a place where residents are known by name, where families are welcomed and where personal connections matter. We believe that every individual deserves to be treated with dignity, respect, and compassion while receiving the support they need to live confidently and comfortably.

As a locally owned and independently operated community, Westwood Place has never been part of a large corporate organization. Decisions are made here, close to home, by people who know the residents, understand the community and are personally invested in providing exceptional service and care.

Following the passing of her husband, Michael Gorra, in 2016, owner, Joy Gorra continued the family’s commitment to Westwood Place and the residents who call it home.  Under her leadership, the community remains focused on preserving independence, encouraging personal choice, and creating a warm welcoming environment where residents can enjoy life on their own terms.

Located in the charming river town of Watertown, just a short drive from the Twin Cities, Westwood Place offers the comfort of small-town living combined with the peace of mind that comes from having support available when needed.

For us, assisted living is not simply about providing services. It is about creating a community where residents feel valued, connected and at home. That commitment has guided Westwood place since 1988 and continues to shape everything we do today.

Leadership

Joy Gorra

Owner & Licensed Assisted Living Director

For more than 30 years, Joy Gorra has dedicated her career to serving seniors and supporting quality residential care communities. A graduate of North Dakota State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Communication and Business Administration, Joy brings both experience and heart to her leadership at Westwood Place.
 
Joy believes exceptional care begins with understanding the people you serve. Her approach is rooted in respect, communication, and helping residents maintain as much independence as possible while receiving the support they need.
 
As Owner and Licensed Assisted Living Director, she remains committed to creating a welcoming environment where residents feel comfortable, families feel informed, and everyone is treated with dignity.
 
“When residents thrive, the entire community thrives.”
Matthew Nelson-Lange

Director of Nursing

What Families Can Expect

Our values guide every decision, ensuring care that’s honest, respectful, reliable, and full of heart.

Personalized Support

Every resident’s needs are different. We tailor support to the individual while respecting independence and personal routines.

Responsive Communication

Families deserve to feel informed, heard, and included throughout the process.

Comfort and Safety

Residents deserve an environment that feels calm, supportive, and secure.

Community and Belonging

Westwood Place is more than a residence. It’s a place where people can build connection, routine, and a sense of home.

Our Purpose

Eldnest was founded on the belief that every elderly person deserves compassionate, professional care in the place they call home.

Our Vision

To create a caregiving culture centered on trust and empathy. We envision a world where every elder feels secure, valued, and supported.

Our Mission

Guidance Through an Important Transition

Choosing assisted living can feel emotional and overwhelming for both families and individuals.
Our role is not to pressure people into a decision. It’s to provide guidance, clarity, and support so families can make the choice that feels right for them.
At Westwood Place, we believe the next chapter of life should still feel full of comfort, connection, and possibility.

Our Approach

At Westwood Place, independence remains at the center of daily life.
 
Every resident receives support based on their individual needs. Our team provides assistance when it is needed while encouraging residents to stay active, engaged, and connected to the routines that matter most to them.
 
Respect, comfort, and dignity guide everything we do.
Eldnest Story
2018

How It All Started

The idea for Eldnest began with a personal need to better, more compassionate elderly care.

2019

Laying the Path

Eldnest began with empathy, creating care solutions rooted in trust, dignity, and real needs.

2022

Widening Our Care

We reached more families by offering flexible, trusted care tailored to their unique needs.

2025

Growing With Love

Eldnest provides care with heart expanding support while honoring each family’s needs.

Let’s Start the Conversation

We’re here to answer questions, provide guidance, and help you explore whether Westwood Place is the right fit.