Acknowledging Small Businesses

At Ridgemere Senior Living, we love small businesses. And honestly, if we’re being real, most large businesses started out as a small business at some point. Even Arrow Senior Living, our management company, began as a small business called Turn-Around Solutions. The original vision was simple: step into a community for 6–12 months, get everything running smoothly, and then move on to the next. The rest of that story is for another time, but it’s a powerful reminder of how something small can grow into something incredible. So, when we say we LOVE small businesses, we truly mean it. Behind every small business is someone’s dream, someone’s risk, and someone’s hard work. That’s something we’re passionate about supporting.

Showing Up for Small Businesses

This Small Business Day, our teams hit the streets in a big way through Creative Follow-Ups and support. Each department head selected a local business to support. Collectively, as a company, we showed up for over 350 small businesses. Even saying that out loud feels incredible! What may seem like a small act can make a big impact.

Our teams didn’t just stop in. They intentionally supported each business by making a purchase or leaving a gift, writing a Google review, and sharing their experience on social media. It was a simple but meaningful way to give back to the communities that support us every day.

Supporting local businesses remains a priority because they shape the identity and character of a community like Conway. In a close-knit town, these businesses are more than places to shop. They are neighbors, partners, and contributors to local culture. Investing in them supports growth and helps maintain a place residents are proud to call home.

Local Favorites That Bring the Community Together

The team at Ridgemere Senior Living highlighted several local favorites. The Culinary Director selected Holly’s Country Kitchen for its welcoming atmosphere and consistently high-quality food. The Wellness Director chose The Green Thumb Produce, a family-owned business known for fresh produce, meats, and homemade jams.

The Resident Services Director recognized Maggie’s Cookies, a local staple known for its fresh-baked goods. Krispy Kreme was also highlighted as a team favorite, known for its warm, freshly made donuts. Each of these businesses adds to the character and connection within the community.

The team prioritizes local partnerships whenever possible. This includes service needs, entertainment, and resident experiences. Many of these relationships begin through referrals from residents and their families. This approach helps ensure partnerships are meaningful and trusted.

By staying connected and intentional, the team continues to strengthen community relationships. Supporting small businesses remains a daily commitment, not just a one-day effort.

Supporting small businesses isn’t just something we do one day a year. It’s part of how we show up in the greater community every day. These businesses are the heart of our neighborhoods. Building those relationships creates a deeper sense of connection for our residents, our teams, and the people we serve.

As you read through the highlights from our community, I hope you feel the same excitement and pride we do. When we support local, we’re not just making a purchase. We’re investing in people, in dreams, and in the place we call home.