Givens Estates

10/08/2025

One of our most joyful traditions returned on Wednesday, October 1 — the annual Blessing of the Animals. 🐾 Residents and chaplains gathered in the courtyard near the peace pole to celebrate the animals who bring comfort, companionship, and love. From pets on leashes to stories of beloved companions, the day was filled with smiles and gratitude.

10/07/2025

Givens Estates Resident Gerry Meyer joined future resident Rich Gibson, and fellow swimmer David Bishop at the NC Senior Games Swim Meet in Raleigh. The athletes represented Haywood County, which earned 8th place out of 24 counties, with a total of 90 points!

Meyer brought home:
🥈 2nd – 50 Breast
🥉 3rd – 100 & 200 Breast, 200 Back
🏅 4th – 100 Back

Gibson earned 1st in both Butterfly events and placed in three others.

Bishop finished first and set age and group records.

👏 We’re proud of these three outstanding swimmers!

📸 Left: Meyer| Center: Gibson| Right: Bishop

10/06/2025

Cheers to community and fall traditions! Residents gathered in our Health Center and the Pulliam Chapel for our lively Oktoberfest celebration, complete with festive music, seasonal flavors, and joyful company. Events like this remind us how special it is to celebrate traditions together.

10/02/2025

There’s a buzz around campus! 🐝

This year, Givens Estates welcomed three new beehives by the Grounds Building.

With the help of staff who trained in beekeeping, the hives quickly got to work—pollinating our gardens, supporting our natural spaces, and helping our campus environment thrive.

One hive even produced enough honey for our very first harvest, a rare achievement in its first season.

A sweet reminder that caring for nature makes our community stronger.

10/02/2025

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

We stand together to honor the fighters, survivors, and those we've lost.

Early detection saves lives; schedule your screening, wear pink, and spread the word.

Let’s raise awareness, offer support, and continue the fight for a cure.

10/01/2025

🌟 Celebrating Excellence at Wood Assisted Living! 🌟

We are thrilled to announce that Wood Assisted Living at Givens Estates has achieved a deficiency-free state survey and earned a 4 out of 4 stars rating—the highest possible recognition from the State of North Carolina Division of Health Service Regulation!

This accomplishment reflects our unwavering commitment to providing exceptional care, safety, and vibrant aging for our residents.

10/01/2025

Today is the International Day of Older Persons!

At Givens Communities, we celebrate the wisdom, resilience, and vibrant spirit of older adults; not just today, but every day.

We are proud to be part of a community that values dignity, inclusion, and purpose at every age.

Let’s honor the elders in our lives and commit to building a world where everyone can age with joy, respect, and opportunity.

09/30/2025

We’re honored to share that Givens Estates has won gold in both Best Retirement Community and Best Assisted Living in the 2025 Best of Asheville awards!

Even sweeter — our sister community, Givens Ge**er Park, was voted 2nd place for Best Retirement Community. Together, our Givens Communities family is proud to be recognized for creating spaces where residents thrive.

Thank you to our incredible residents, staff, and supporters who make this possible. 💛
Read more by clicking below:

Givens Estates won two gold models for best retirement community and best assisted living in this year’s "Best of Asheville" contest.

09/29/2025

We’re thrilled to welcome Jen Cortez to the team as one of our new Independent Living Social Workers!

After 23 years in Atlanta, she followed her heart to Western North Carolina in 2022, drawn by the natural beauty and vibrant culture of our region.

With 34 years of professional social work experience — including a strong foundation in mental health, developmental disabilities, and family therapy — Jen shifted her focus to aging services, embracing a calling to support older adults.

“I’m very excited to be at Givens, and to have an opportunity to get to know and support so many amazing people.” Jen said.

Jen is also a proud mother of two adult children, one of whom lives with her here in WNC. When she’s not working, you’ll find her exploring the outdoors, soaking in the serenity and inspiration that nature offers.

09/27/2025

🌈 Come Celebrate With Us at Blue Ridge Pride! 🎉 📍

Downtown Asheville | 🕛 Today, Noon–6 PM

Stop by our booth for fun, laughter, and connection! 📸 Snap a pic at our interactive photo booth. Enjoy engaging activities for all ages

Meet our friendly team and learn more about how we’re making a difference in the lives of older adults across the region.

09/26/2025

Residents gathered to mark one year since Hurricane Helene. With music by Rob Blackwell and reflections from Executive Director, Kirsten Cone, the space was filled with remembrance, gratitude, and hope.

09/26/2025

Happy HR Professionals Day! | September 26

Today we celebrate the incredible dedication of our Human Resources team; the people who work tirelessly behind the scenes to support our staff, strengthen our workplace culture, and help our organization grow and thrive.

From recruitment and onboarding to training, benefits, and employee support, our HR professionals ensure every team member feels valued and empowered.

Let’s take a moment to thank them for all they do!