COLUMBUS, Ohio — Friendship Village Columbus (FVC) tops the list as Best Retirement Community in the “Columbus CEO” Best of Business 2017 awards. The 10th annual readers’ poll attracted nearly 54,000 votes, up 44 percent from the previous year.

“Columbus CEO” readers voted online May through July for their favorites in 11 categories, including Business Support Services, Education, Financial, Food and Beverage, Healthcare, Legal, Meetings and Events, Personal Perks, Real Estate, Workforce and Best of the Rest. The best retirement community listing falls under the Real Estate category. Best of Business is the publication’s longest-running recognition program.

In addition to being named Best Retirement Community in central Ohio this year, Friendship Village Columbus also received Top Workplaces Awards from “Columbus CEO” in 2016 and 2017.

“Friendship Village Columbus encompasses a wonderful community of residents and staff who redefine retirement living into a lifestyle of active growth and discovery. This award caps an amazing year that has included a multimillion dollar renovation project, a brand-new first floor assisted living wing neighborhood and excellent ratings for our healthcare services. We are so pleased to be acknowledged by ‘Columbus CEO’ readers and look forward to beginning our 40th year in central Ohio,” said Lisa Burkhart, executive director of Friendship Village Columbus.

As a Life Plan Community, Friendship Village Columbus provides a variety of lifestyle and healthcare services under one roof, including independent living, assisted living, memory care, short-term rehabilitation and long-term care. FVC is a nonprofit community managed by United Church Homes of Marion, Ohio.