David Lewis, Capital Manor — Where Community, Care, and Joy Come Together

For more than three decades, Capital Manor has been a cornerstone of senior living in West Salem, offering far more than retirement and memory care services. Under the leadership of David Lewis, Capital Manor has grown into a vibrant, close-knit community known for its warmth, laughter, and deeply rooted sense of connection.

Capital Manor is a long-term living and memory care facility that has served residents for over 30 years. A proud 501(c)(3) nonprofit with a team of nearly 300 employees, the organization has spent the last 14 years as an active member of the West Salem Business Association. David describes Capital Manor not just as a workplace, but as a shared journey shaped by residents, staff, and the wider community.

What truly sets Capital Manor apart is its culture. “It’s a relaxed, communal atmosphere,” David says. “There’s laughter, teamwork, and a sense that this place has grown organically into what it is today.” Visitors are often surprised to discover just how young-at-heart and active the residents are, challenging common assumptions about senior living.

One of David’s proudest accomplishments has been positioning Capital Manor to meet the needs of the coming “silver tsunami” of Baby Boomers entering retirement. Yet, he notes that what makes the work most meaningful is not growth alone, but the people. Capital Manor is often remembered by employees as a defining chapter in their professional lives, shaped by collaboration and an exceptional team.

Like many long-standing organizations, Capital Manor has faced its share of challenges, including navigating tight budgets while demand continues to grow. With full waitlists, the need for expansion is clear, and David sees opportunity ahead, particularly in collaboration with developers and construction partners to meet community demand.

West Salem has always felt like home — David appreciates its distinct identity and reputation, describing it as a community within Salem that still carries the spirit of when it stood as its own city. Through WSBA, Capital Manor stays connected to important local news and the ongoing growth of the business community.

Outside of work, David’s interests are as varied as they are engaging. He enjoys hiking, fishing, kayaking, playing blues harmonica, and even practicing sleight-of-hand magic. He’s also never short on stories, including one memorable party where he crossed paths with Roger Clinton, brother of former President Bill Clinton. At Capital Manor, celebration is a shared value, with team traditions that include lively Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s gatherings. The workplace vibe? Somewhere between “The Sound of Music” and “Animal House.”

When asked what advice he’d offer new businesses in West Salem, David keeps it simple: meet people and don’t be afraid to talk business. Looking back, he believes his first-day-in-business self would be surprised to hear this lesson most of all: it’s okay to slow down. “It’s more fun together,” he says.

For visitors passing through West Salem, David recommends stopping by Capital Manor’s own 1963 Grille, along with local favorites Magnolia Grill and Roger That BBQ. And while Capital Manor doesn’t have new announcements just yet, David hints that there’s always more to come — so stay tuned.