Director of Nursing Exemplifies Excellence and Heart at Trillium Woods
Residents of Trillium Woods—a premier senior living community in Plymouth, Minnesota—know that exceptional care begins with exceptional people. Leading that commitment is Director of Nursing Joshua Orenge, whose 35-year career in senior care is defined by excellence, empathy, and service. Warm, steady, and relentlessly focused on outcomes, Orenge brings together a talented team that delivers the five-star quality, compassion, and hospitality that make Trillium Woods such an extraordinary place to live.
Set on a scenic 46-acre campus, Trillium Woods offers a full continuum of care, from independent living to assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing. Under Orenge’s leadership, residents and families alike can count on a standard of care that blends clinical precision with heartfelt connection — an approach that ensures every individual receives the attention and dignity they deserve.
A Life of Purpose
Originally from Kenya, Orenge came to the United States in 1987 and earned a degree in economics from Metropolitan State University. When opportunities in that field were limited, he discovered his calling in healthcare, starting as a nursing assistant and advancing through every level of nursing to Director of Nursing. Presbyterian Homes recognized his potential early and awarded multiple scholarships that supported his nursing, bachelor’s, and graduate-level leadership studies. That investment shaped Orenge’s commitment to mentorship and lifelong learning.
Building Teams That Feel Like Family
When Orenge joined Trillium Woods three years ago, he immediately tackled one of healthcare’s toughest challenges: staffing and retention. Drawing on deep community connections and a rigorous hiring philosophy, he prioritized people who combine clinical skill with heart. Turnover remains low at Trillium Woods, and the Birch’s Care Center has maintained a coveted 5-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.
Accountability and encouragement define Orenge’s leadership. He sets clear expectations, coaches to strengths, and models gracious professionalism. The result is consistency residents feel every day, with familiar — and friendly — faces, reliable follow-through, and a team culture where hospitality and clinical excellence go hand in hand.
Giving Back to Kenya
Remembering how his home community helped launch his education, Orenge has devoted decades to giving back. Through grassroots fundraising with friends and colleagues, he has raised more than $100,000 to build two churches and a school that now serves over 200 students. He also organizes quarterly youth soccer tournaments that have grown from five teams to more than 25, drawing thousands of spectators. Working with local leaders, Orenge helped level and improve the community field, creating a safe, welcoming place for play, connection, and hope. His philosophy is simple and steadfast: if you have been helped, help others.
Care that Feels Personal
Among the many residents Orenge has come to know, one in particular stands out in his memory: a woman who loved to dance. She had lived at Trillium Woods for years and was known for her joyful spirit and laughter. Even after sustaining a fracture, her enthusiasm never waned. When Orenge entered the room, her face would light up, and for a moment, she seemed to forget any pain or limitation. “When she saw me, she’d stand up just to dance,” he recalls. Her family was so touched by their bond that they captured photos of the two dancing together during holiday celebrations. It became a tradition: each Christmas, she would find Orenge so they could share a dance. “I’m not a great dancer,” he admits, “but she always made me feel like I was.” Moments like these, he says, remind him why he does this work — because in senior care, small acts of joy can make a lasting difference.
Looking Ahead
As Trillium Woods grows, Orenge and his team will continue delivering the consistency, warmth, and clinical quality residents deserve. His guiding belief remains the same — dream big, set the bar high, and do the ordinary things with extraordinary care.
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