# Empowering the Future of Senior Living Leadership Through the GRIT Program

At Leisure Care, cultivating leadership from within is a fundamental objective. The **Growing, Reaching, Inspiring, and Teaching (GRIT) program** is crafted to empower team members with leadership capabilities while upholding the organization’s strong dedication to hospitality-driven senior living. This initiative aids individuals in their professional development, ensuring that upcoming leaders persist in forging meaningful relationships with residents, families, and colleagues.

An inspiring illustration of GRIT’s influence is **Ashley Taylor**, an **Activities Assistant at The Landing of O’Fallon**. Ashley’s journey exemplifies how this program motivates team members to recognize their strengths and enhance their confidence in their positions.

## Discovering Leadership in Unforeseen Places

Ashley’s path to leadership commenced with a straightforward dialogue with her General Manager. Initially hesitant about the prospect of entering management, fearing it might compromise the personal connections she cherishes, a valuable piece of advice shifted her viewpoint.

*”My GM remarked, ‘What if you could teach others how to foster these meaningful connections?’ That sparked a new thought process, leading me to GRIT as the logical next step.”*

This enlightening exchange enabled Ashley to understand that leadership involves **guiding and inspiring others**—rather than losing sight of what she cherishes most about her job.

## Enhancing Leadership Skills Through GRIT

The GRIT program provides a systematic approach to leadership growth by integrating:
– **Educational resources** – Readings, videos, and reflective writing tasks
– **Hands-on experience** – Real-world challenges simulated in a safe environment
– **Mentorship and feedback** – Support from peers and management to bolster development

For Ashley, **the written reflections posed the greatest challenge**. Initially reluctant to express her thoughts, she overcame this barrier by embracing her true self.

*”I would often feel stuck, worrying whether I was doing it correctly,”* Ashley confessed. *”Eventually, I understood that the best approach was simply to be myself. I stopped second-guessing, shared my views, and the feedback from my peers and management was incredibly warm and supportive.”*

## Envisioning a Meaningful Future in Senior Living

Through her involvement in GRIT, Ashley gained a more defined understanding of **her strengths and areas for potential growth**. Moving forward, she dreams of broadening her influence by becoming **a traveling team member**, assisting various Leisure Care communities in forging meaningful connections.

*”I truly admire the passion this company has for its mission,”* Ashley expressed. *”From top to bottom, I am surrounded by individuals who genuinely care, and I have no desire to leave.”*

Her advice for aspiring GRIT participants?

**”Be authentic, maintain a positive attitude, and the possibilities are endless!”**

## A Pathway to Professional Growth in Senior Living

Leisure Care is committed to generating opportunities for team members to evolve while making a meaningful impact. Whether you are just beginning your career or seeking advancement, the **GRIT program and other professional development initiatives** are here to support employees as they take their next steps.

For those interested in a career in senior living, **Leisure Care is hiring across various locations nationwide**. **Explore available positions or discover more about professional development programs** by visiting the Leisure Care career page.

If you are already part of the Leisure Care family, further details about the organization’s **Signature Programs can be found on the HUB** to continue your leadership journey and advance your career.

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Leisure Care’s GRIT program is profoundly impacting by equipping employees with the abilities and confidence necessary to **become the next generation of senior living leaders**. Ashley’s narrative emphasizes **growth, connection, and enthusiasm**, illustrating the significance of internal leadership development in providing exceptional care and service.