Meet Dan Klein, Jr., chief solution finder at Waterford Communities Assisted Living (www.thewaterford.net).
Tell us a little about your business. – The Waterford Communities Assisted Living serves our residents with a caring spirit, compassion and commitment to dignity. Our team member selection is integral to our success.
We promise that while we can never replace your home, we are going to try to make our communities feel like you never left. At Waterford, we do everything we can to ensure that you always feel at home.
Waterford is a family business based in Lincoln. We have three assisted living communities named for the neighborhood where they are located: Waterford College View, Waterford Williamsburg and Waterford Wilderness Hills (memory care).
How did you get started in the business? – Our family grew up in SW Michigan. In the early 80’s we moved to Nebraska. At a working age, we did construction for summer and part time jobs. Then, in the early 90’s, we began as building contractors under the name Regal Building. We built homes and commercial buildings in Lancaster County, and then built several assisted living facilities for other operators. In 1999 we built Waterford Williamsburg as our first assisted living to own and operate.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – Operating our business through the pandemic and adjusting to the impacts of the last three years. We’ve had to change how we interact with everyone to ensure everyone stays safe.
Tell us a little about your family. – I have an amazing wife, Lisa, of 31 years. She’s my rock! We have two adult children. Daniel, our youngest, just got married and is beginning grad school at Creighton School of Dentistry. Haleigh, our oldest, is a social worker and lives with her husband in Colorado, and they have just made Lisa and me grandparents for the second time. Grand parenting is the BEST! I’m thankful for cruise control to drive to Colorado, and for Facetime when in Nebraska.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – In 1997, while helping with construction on a summer youth service mission trip to Panama, I gave my heart to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – Anything family related. I have a son, daughter-in-law, nieces, nephews, sister, brother-in-law, mom and dad (and of course friends) nearby that I love spending time with. We love going to Woodcliff Lake.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? – I was a volunteer Acrobatic coach for Union College for 15 years. I love working with young people and making a difference that impacts their lives.
Who inspires you? – My father. He is the most joyful and positive spirit. He is a friend to anyone.
What is your favorite TV show? – The Chosen.
What is your favorite local restaurant? – Choosing one is difficult. Currently my wife and I enjoy Copal, Lazlo’s, Fireworks and Piedmont Bistro. Lincoln has a lot of great local restaurants.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – www.thewaterford.net; dkleinjr@thewaterford.net; (402) 480-6950 or (402) 435-3550.