Wesley Woods was formed out of the compassion of lay and clergy leaders for the elders in their midst who were unable to care for themselves.  In 1954, out of this concern of the North Georgia Conference of the United Methodist Church, a corporation was created.  Those leaders brought this ministry to fruition.  Service to older adults took its place in the church's commitment to minister to those in need through housing, healthcare, education and research.

In 1965, Wesley Woods Towers near Emory University was opened, followed by rapid expansion throughout North Georgia in south Atlanta, Athens, Augusta, Blairsville, and Newnan.  In 1987, Wesley Woods opened the Wesley Woods Geriatric Hospital focusing on teaching and research in geriatrics in close relationship with Emory Healthcare.  Due to the mounting complexity of healthcare systems and the close historical relationship with Emory, Wesley Woods transferred ownership and management of the Wesley Woods Center campus to Emory in 1998.  This unique relationship allows Emory and Wesley Woods to each focus on its area of expertise while providing an extraordinary continuum of care and services to the aging population in our region.

Later, Wesley Woods modified its name to Wesley Woods Senior Living to better reflect its core ministry of serving older adults through the provision of retirement communities. Wesley Woods Senior Living continues to operate, through a management agreement with Wesley Woods Center, nine retirement communities in six locations throughout North Georgia

Today, over 1,500 older adults are served annually in Wesley Woods Senior Living retirement communities with 75% receiving financial assistance. 

Mission

 　To help people age with grace

Vision

　To be a leader in senior living housing, services, information, education and research support

Values

• Commitment to service and ministry, based on our faith tradition

• Care and compassion
• Excellence
• Integrity and respect
• Health in mind, body and spirit

Undergirding Philosophy

Consistent with our Judeo-Christian values, we believe:

•Aging has a fulfilling purpose in life

•Society is strong to the extent that seniors are valued

•Faith development is life long