In today's fast-paced world, the concept of community can often feel lost on us all. This is especially true for those living in large apartment complexes. However, Hignell Rentals, through its nonprofit organization Creating Caring Communities (CCC), is striving to change that. CCC was established with the goal of fostering stronger community bonds and enhancing the quality of life for residents within Hignell's apartment complexes. With dedicated teams at various properties, CCC helps to create environments where residents not only live together but also thrive together.
Below, we'll take a closer look at each property participating in the Creating Caring Communities initiative and introduce you to the amazing teams that are making these apartment communities truly special.
Austin and Rachel Weatherby bring a wealth of experience and a passion for community building to Sterling Oaks Apartments. Although they are not originally from Chico, they have fallen in love with the area and are dedicated to creating a warm, welcoming environment for their neighbors. At Sterling Oaks, Austin and Rachel enjoy leading DIY projects, hosting coffee meetups, and organizing evening walks, all of which help create the small, consistent interactions that are key to building a strong community. Residents at Sterling Oaks can expect to find a supportive environment where everyone is encouraged to participate and contribute.
John and Sarah Amatuccio are the Caring Community Team at Sheridan Square Apartments, where they focus on creating a sense of belonging for all residents. Both Chico State graduates, John and Sarah have a deep connection to the area and a strong commitment to their community. The Amatuccios organize a variety of events, including hiking trips and board game nights, that encourage residents to connect with each other. They are always available to lend a helping hand or simply have a chat so that everyone at Sheridan Square feels like they have a place to call home.
At Tuscan Villa Apartments, the Creating Caring Communities initiative is all about building friendships and creating a supportive environment. The Caring Community Team at Tuscan Villa is dedicated to making sure every resident feels valued and included. Through a variety of inclusive activities and events, the team helps develop connections among residents, helping to create a true sense of community. Tuscan Villa is a place where you can build lasting relationships and truly feel at home, whether you're new to the area or have lived there for years.
Jared and Kimberly Stidham are passionate about creating an authentic sense of community at Train Station Apartments. Jared, a Chico native, and Kimberly, who hails from Belize, bring diverse perspectives and a shared love for people to their role as the Caring Community Team. The Stidhams are dedicated to creating a welcoming environment through cultural exchange events, community dinners, and other activities that reflect their love of food, culture, and conversation. Train Station Apartments is a place where neighbors become friends, and everyone feels like they belong.
Chris and Leslie Aranca are the Caring Community Team at Amanda Place Apartments, bringing warmth and a welcoming atmosphere to this vibrant community. Originally from different parts of the country—Leslie from Liverpool, NY, and Chris from Honolulu, HI—this couple has made Chico their home since 2014. They focus on building a sense of belonging among residents through regular potlucks, outdoor activities, and other community events. Whether it's a shared meal or a community hike, Chris and Leslie help residents at Amanda Place feel connected and supported in a family-like environment.
At Almond Grove Apartments, the Creating Caring Communities initiative goes beyond just providing a place to live—it creates a true sense of belonging. The Caring Community Team here focuses on nurturing relationships among residents and organizing various community activities such as movie nights, holiday celebrations, and group outings. These events are designed to bring residents together, creating a space where neighbors can build lasting friendships. Almond Grove truly embodies the spirit of a community in which every resident feels like a part of the family!
Jacob and Whitney Kovacs lead our CCC team at Forest Avenue Apartments. This dynamic couple brings energy and enthusiasm to their roles. Jacob, a SoCal native turned Chico local, and Whitney, a Chico native herself, have made Forest Avenue their home with their three young daughters. The Kovacs are passionate about building a strong, supportive community by organizing sports tournaments, family-friendly events, and other activities that encourage residents to get involved and make new connections. Forest Avenue is the place to be for residents looking to engage in fun and community in meaningful ways.
At Lassen Villa Apartments, Jesse and Savanna Stidham are committed to making every resident feel at home. Both born and raised in Chico, this couple has deep roots in the area and a strong desire to give back to their community. Jesse and Savanna bring their love of sports, reading, and hosting game nights to the Lassen Villa community, creating opportunities for residents to connect through casual get-togethers and more structured events. Their efforts to make Lassen Villa a place where everyone feels like part of a close-knit community have created a truly familial culture.
Creating Caring Communities is more than just a program—it's a way of life at Hignell Rentals properties. By fostering strong community bonds and providing opportunities for residents to connect, CCC helps to develop these apartment complexes into vibrant, diverse communities. Whether you're attending a community event, participating in a group activity, or simply enjoying a chat with your neighbors, you'll find that Hignell Rentals properties are places where community truly comes to life.