FORT WORTH, TX — In communities from Texas to Arizona, the workday at Civitas Senior Living is not measured only in hours or tasks, but in the ways employees and residents share experiences.
This Labor Day, Civitas recognized staff members whose work reflects the company’s two cornerstone culture programs:
- Employee Engagement Program: Provides training, peer recognition, and opportunities for workplace connection to support staff engagement and retention.
- My Special Friend Program: Pairs employees with residents to create personalized experiences and strengthen bonds.
Together, these programs highlight the people behind the daily work with residents and show how Civitas staff make a difference every day.
At The Hamptons of Tyler (Tyler, TX), Lead Maintenance team member Maurice Anderson, with the community since April 2021, regularly helps residents with projects and activities. Maintenance Assistant Ben built custom frames and seals for a Veteran Wall across Civitas communities. Teausha created patriotic T-shirts for every employee for July 4, making sure each design matched the wearer’s preference. Their efforts illustrate how the cultural programs translate into tangible actions that impact residents and colleagues alike.
At The Ridglea (Fort Worth, TX), Lead Assisted Living Med-Aid Maria Montoya received the Texas Assisted Living Association Hero Award. Maria, with the team since 2018, said, “I was so surprised. It meant a great deal to receive the award and then attend the conference in Austin to accept it. I enjoy working here.” Executive Director Elizabeth Dailey added: “Maria gives her full attention to the residents every day and shows care in all she does.”
In Austin, TX, Ledgestone Senior Living is finishing the Butterfly Moments Garden under the guidance of Community Relations Director Katy Starr and with support from the Dripping Springs Art League. The garden features pollinator-friendly landscaping, seating areas, a butterfly mosaic wall, stained-glass spinners, ceramic wind chimes, a resting station for butterflies, and an outdoor xylophone. Residents and family members added painted rocks, and sponsorships continue to support the project.
At The Bluffs of Flagstaff (Flagstaff, AZ), Community Outreach Director Kimberly Gutierrez received the Shining Star Emerging Leaders Award at the 2025 ATHENA Award ceremony. Kimberly helps share resident stories with media outlets, serves as a Chamber Ambassador, and sits on the board of Big Brothers Big Sisters. Executive Director Andy Auteri said, “Her approach to building relationships sets her apart.” 
At The Brooks of Cibolo (Cibolo, TX), Independent Living Activity Director Gabriela Reyna helped a resident see colors for the first time with color-correcting glasses. Gabriela also runs Crafters Corner, where residents recently made bird baths from terra-cotta pots and bowls.
From small acts of care to award-winning achievements, Civitas employees this Labor Day show how culture in action transforms senior living into a place of connection and purpose.
About Civitas Senior Living
Civitas Senior Living operates 33 senior communities offering independent living, assisted living, and memory care across the U.S. Learn more at civitasseniorliving.com.
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Media Contact: Nicky Brown – [email protected]