Voted Best of the Best 2025 | The News-Herald

For the third year in a row, American House Riverview has earned the coveted Best of the Best Readers’ Choice Award for Best Assisted/Senior Living in The News-Herald, a prominent downriver publication. When it comes to recognition, nothing can be more satisfying than being chosen by those who know best—the people of the downriver area.

It is certainly an honor, yet to those familiar with the community—not a surprise. With their exceptional team—many who’ve worked there for years—and the exciting events and parties, there is always an overwhelming feeling of positivity in the air at American House Riverview. The place is bustling, and people seem happy to be there. It looks clean, it smells fresh and it’s hard not to feel good when you see so many smiling faces. The team members really love what they do, and it shows in the happiness of their residents—and in their occupancy, which generally averages over 90%.

Over the years, Joe D’Angelo has risen in the leadership ranks at the community and has proven himself by earning the title of Executive Director. To him, American House Riverview’s award is well-deserved, “I believe American House Riverview has won Best of the Best three years in a row because we have an amazing team of people who are dedicated to serving our area seniors!”

One of the top team members who keeps the wheels moving on this smooth-running machine is Kat Walker, the community’s Life Enrichment Director (LED). This is a role that requires a lot of creativity—knowing how to organize programming, outings and events is a must, which Kat handles with ease.

“We have such a robust calendar of activities and events here,” said Kat. “There's something for everyone. Any time a reasonable suggestion comes in, we try it and continue to build upon resident interests.”

It’s easy to see what makes Kat a truly exceptional LED. Even when she’s not at work, Kat is thinking about her community. She clearly loves what she does, and her dedication earned her the American House Daisy Award for National Activity Professionals Week, an award given out annually to one LED who exhibits performance excellence.

With Kat leading the charge, American House Riverview residents enjoy special themed events, monthly family nights and outings, like the recent trip aboard the Detroit Princess Cruise. Kat also organizes entertainment and guest speakers. “I am always looking to make our community stand out by connecting with those unique entertainers and trying out-of-the-box ideas to create special moments for our residents.”

The American House Riverview team is proud to have been recognized for the third year in a row in The News-Herald’s Reader’s Choice Awards as Best of the Best 2025. This award-winning community is featured in The News-Herald on Page 18.