Make Culture Your Competitive Edge

How Small Moments Build a Stronger Team at The Aspenwood Company

At The Aspenwood Company, we believe culture is more than a buzzword — it’s one of the most powerful drivers of our business success. In an industry built on compassion, trust, and human connection, culture isn’t just about employee satisfaction — it directly impacts the experience we deliver to residents and families every day.

A vibrant, connected culture helps us:

·       Attract and retain top talent

·       Foster loyalty, trust, and high performance among our teams

·       Support consistency and excellence in resident care

·       Drive innovation and operational success across our communities

The Research Is Clear:

·       Happy employees are 13% more productive (Oxford University)

·       Highly engaged teams show 21% greater profitability and 59% less turnover (Gallup)

·       Strong cultures foster greater innovation, motivation, and long-term loyalty (Deloitte)

And at Aspenwood, the proof is in our own performance — we’ve been honored as a Great Place to Work® for multiple years, based entirely on the voices of our own associates.

Small Moments, Big Impact

While culture starts with leadership, it lives and breathes in the everyday moments we create with and for our teams.
Simple, thoughtful celebrations and micro-moments of joy can:

·       Strengthen team morale

·       Build a sense of belonging

·       Reinforce shared values

·       Foster camaraderie and connection

These moments don’t have to be complicated — what matters is their consistency and authenticity.

Examples of easy ways to celebrate throughout the year:

·       July: Host a popsicle break or summer picnic to beat the heat and foster fun

·       August: Plan a back-to-school spirit day — with themed treats or a casual dress-down day

·       September: Celebrate National Assisted Living Week with small daily surprises for associates

Monthly celebrations tied to national holidays or team milestones are also great opportunities to bring people together in meaningful ways.

Why This Matters in Senior Living

Senior living is an industry where people are everything — and that starts with our associates. When team members feel:
- Valued
- Recognized
- Connected to the company mission

…they are empowered to deliver the kind of care and hospitality that sets Aspenwood apart.

A great culture directly benefits our residents and families — creating environments of compassion, consistency, and excellence.

Leadership That Listens, Culture That Connects

At The Aspenwood Company, our HR and Engagement teams provide ongoing tools and ideas for leaders — from monthly celebration calendars to recognition programs and beyond.
Our goal is simple: to foster workplaces where people want to come to work — and want to stay.

Whether it’s a surprise ice cream break, a heartfelt thank-you note, or celebrating a personal milestone, these moments of culture create a ripple effect of positivity that drives every part of our mission.

The Aspenwood Difference

Culture is a business strategy. When we invest in our people, the results show up in:
- Better performance
- Higher retention
- Stronger resident experiences
- Exceptional community reputations

At The Aspenwood Company, we will continue to Live Life Well® — together — with purpose, celebration and by making culture our competitive edge.

Written by – Christina O’Leary, Inspired by Kimberly Varley, VP of HR