The Cedars is proud to share that as of July 1, 2025, we are part of Bluestem Communities—a network of nonprofit senior living and care organizations committed to enriching the lives of older adults across south central Kansas.
This affiliation brings new opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and long-term sustainability while allowing The Cedars to retain our name, mission, and historic connection to the Church of the Brethren. As always, our focus remains on providing exceptional care and community for seniors in McPherson and the surrounding region.
By becoming the fifth Bluestem Communities location, The Cedars joins a respected network of senior care providers known for their person-centered approach and faith-based values.
As a life plan community, The Cedars serves more than 300 residents and employs over 200 team members. We offer a full continuum of living and care options—including independent living, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing, and rehabilitation services. We join the Bluestem Communities network that serves more than 890 seniors and employs more than 625 staff members across its campuses.
With roots dating back to the 1890s, The Cedars is one of the oldest retirement communities in Kansas. Our affiliation with Bluestem Communities honors that legacy while helping ensure we thrive for generations to come.
With more than 130 years of trusted service, The Cedars is a respected leader in senior living. As part of Bluestem Communities, this affiliation enhances our shared nonprofit mission—allowing us to strengthen services, create operational efficiencies, and ensure long-term sustainability for generations to come.
Leadership of two south central Kansas senior living and care organizations, Bluestem Communities, headquartered in North Newton, and The Cedars in McPherson, have announced an affiliation that will make the The Cedars the fifth Bluestem Communities location. Pictured are LaMonte Rothrock (left), recently retired CEO of The Cedars, and James Krehbiel, President and CEO of Bluestem Communities.
With the recent retirement of CEO LaMonte Rothrock, who led The Cedars for eight years and served as CEO for the past five, Amy Bennett has been appointed Executive Director of The Cedars. Rothrock’s deep institutional knowledge and commitment to The Cedars will continue to benefit the community as he supports the transition in a consulting role and serves as a representative throughout the affiliation process.
Bluestem Communities is a nonprofit senior living organization headquartered in North Newton, Kansas. With the addition of The Cedars, the Bluestem network now includes five locations serving more than 890 residents and employing approximately 625 staff members across its campuses.
Campuses include:
Bluestem operates under a shared services model, providing centralized support for leadership, operations, finance, human resources, marketing, IT, and advancement—while empowering each campus to focus on providing high-quality care that reflects its unique identity and community.
This affiliation is the result of more than a year of thoughtful conversation between both organizations’ boards of directors. It reflects a shared belief that strong, values-driven organizations can accomplish more together.
Affiliating with a like-minded organization rooted in shared values and a commitment to senior care creates a strong foundation for the future. By joining the Bluestem Communities network, The Cedars is positioned to grow and thrive while continuing to serve residents with excellence for years to come.
As we move forward, The Cedars remains committed to the same standard of excellence, compassion, and community that has defined our organization for more than a century. We are excited to continue that mission as part of the Bluestem Communities family.
Learn more about Bluestem Communities and explore their other locations:
For questions about our affiliation or services, please contact us. We look forward to this exciting new chapter.
