Learn First Recap: Reconnecting Through Hard Times
Our latest Learn First Seminar brought together residents, team members, and community vendors for a meaningful morning focused on healing, resilience, and reconnection. We were honored to welcome Resources for Resilience, a North Carolina nonprofit dedicated to teaching simple, science-backed tools for navigating stress and building emotional strength. Their interactive session, Reconnecting Through Hard Times, […]
Turning ANTs into PETs: Keep the Reflection Going
At our recent retreat, we paused to reflect—on our work, our purpose, and the power of showing up for each other. But that reflection doesn’t end there. In caregiving, how we talk to ourselves matters just as much as the care we give to others. When we’re tired, overwhelmed, or doubting ourselves, it’s easy for […]
What a Difference a Year Makes: Home First Team Retreat 2025
Just one year ago, 32 of us gathered at Owen Park for our first-ever Home First Team Retreat. Fast forward to today—we’ve more than doubled, with 77 team members and 45 in attendance at this year’s gathering. What a difference a year makes! This retreat was more than a chance to step away from our […]
Coming Together After the Storm: Save the Date for Our Spring/Summer Learn First Seminar
Last Fall, Hurricane Helene left her mark on our mountain communities—bringing unexpected challenges, stress, and disruption to our daily lives. In true Givens spirit, we weathered the storm with compassion and care for one another. But as we all know, sometimes the emotional impact lingers long after the skies clear. That’s why we’re especially grateful […]
Exciting News from Our Neighbors at MemoryCare!
We’re proud to call Mary Donnelly and MemoryCare our neighbors here at Givens, and we absolutely love the meaningful work they’re doing for families living with dementia. Mary’s new book, The MemoryCaregivers’ Collection, is now available on Amazon! This guide covers important topics like: What to do after a diagnosis Effective communication strategies Safety management […]
A Sweet Success: Our Open House Tea Party!
We had such a lovely time hosting our Open House Tea Party at Givens Estates! It was a joy to welcome neighbors, friends, and new faces into the Givens Home First office. Highlights of the Day: Sipping tea and enjoying delicious macaroons Smiles and laughter at the Photo Booth! Heartfelt conversations and meaningful connections A […]
Who Cares When the Caregiver Can’t?
Why It’s Crucial to Have a Backup Plan for Loved Ones with Dementia When a loved one is living with cognitive challenges, such an Alzheimer’s diagnosis, their world often becomes increasingly dependent on routine, familiarity, and—most importantly—on their caregiver. But what happens if that caregiver suddenly becomes unavailable due to illness, an emergency, or even […]
Our New “Age-Friendly” Apartment at Givens Estates
We’re excited to unveil one of our most innovative steps forward in aging-in-place: the completion of our “age-friendly” model apartment in Asbury Commons at Givens Estates — and it’s already under contract! This unit was designed to show how tech-forward solutions and simple, thoughtful upgrades can enhance safety, comfort, and independence. Every feature was chosen […]
April is National Volunteer Month
April is National Volunteer Month—a time to celebrate the incredible impact of giving back. Volunteering doesn’t just benefit the people and causes you support—it can also do wonders for you. It helps you feel more connected to your community, keeps you active, boosts both mental and physical well-being, and brings a deeper sense of purpose […]
Advocating for Older Adults on Capitol Hill
Last week, members of our leadership team had the incredible opportunity to join LeadingAge and LeadingAge North Carolina in Washington, D.C. for Lobby Day 2025—a powerful time to speak up for the well-being of older adults and those who care for them. We’re proud to share that Jessie Bosshard, Executive Director of Givens Home First, […]