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Watercrest Senior Living Group Earns Ninth Great Place to Work® Certification

Watercrest Senior Living Group has reached a remarkable milestone by earning its ninth consecutive Great Place to Work® certification. This recognition is bestowed by the Great Place to Work Institute and its senior care affiliate, Activated Insights. The distinction underscores Watercrest's unwavering dedication to fostering an outstanding workplace environment for its associates across various communities.

The certification process is based on genuine feedback from employees serving in numerous Watercrest communities and corporate operations situated throughout the Southeastern United States. This survey scrutinizes key aspects of the employee experience, such as trust in leadership, camaraderie among coworkers, growth opportunities, and the meaningful impact employees feel they contribute to residents' lives.

Marc Vorkapich, the Principal and CEO of Watercrest Senior Living Group, shared his thoughts on this achievement: "Securing the Great Place to Work certification for nine consecutive years is an extraordinary reflection of our associates and the culture we've established together. At Watercrest, we uphold the belief that when individuals feel valued, inspired, and supported, remarkable outcomes arise. Our associates exemplify our Principles of Service, showcasing what it means to honor our elders through kindness and committed leadership."

Watercrest's focus on a people-centric culture begins even before an employee's first day. The organization uses a comprehensive behavioral-based interview approach, ensuring that new hires align with Watercrest's mission and values. Each associate is encouraged to display a core value on their name badge that represents their unique characteristics and strengths within the Watercrest family.

In addition, the "We Are Watercrest" movement promotes engagement and celebrates each associate's unique contribution to the organization. Built on the premise that every team member shares a collective purpose, this initiative encourages individuals to highlight how they live out Watercrest’s core values during their daily interactions with residents, families, and fellow team members.

Jessica Desjarlais, Director of Associate Experience at Watercrest, remarked, "Investing in our people creates a positive ripple effect throughout our communities. When associates feel appreciated and supported, residents and their families get to experience the best of us. Earning the Great Place to Work certification for almost a decade attests to the unique culture we've cultivated."

Research by Great Place to Work demonstrates that organizations that rank highly in workplace satisfaction are built on trust, pride, and connection. Additionally, employers recognized for excellence in their workplace also demonstrate effective leadership, innovation, and long-term sustainability—hallmarks of the Watercrest culture.

Results from the 2026 certification survey indicated that 80% of associates considered Watercrest a Great Place to Work, a figure notably higher than the national average of 57% for U.S. companies. Furthermore, nearly 90% of Watercrest employees feel their job is meaningful, believe that their contributions are acknowledged, and felt welcomed into the Watercrest family from their first day.

Associates have expressed sentiments such as: "Our Watercrest leaders encourage us and treat us with respect. We are more a family than coworkers," and "I take pride in creating unforgettable moments with our residents."

The Great Place to Work® certification encompasses all senior living communities under the Watercrest brand, including Sage Park Senior Living, Pelican Landing Assisted Living and Memory Care, and LifeBUILT Architecture.

About Watercrest Senior Living Group

Founded with the mission to honor our mothers and fathers, Watercrest Senior Living Group aims to excel in providing quality senior living by surpassing care standards, service, and associate training. Recognized for their luxurious aesthetics, exceptional amenities, world-class care, and innovative memory care programs, Watercrest Communities is deeply committed to serving seniors with dignity and compassion. For more information, visit www.watercrestseniorliving.com.

About Activated Insights

Activated Insights, the senior care affiliate of Great Place to Work, specializes in recognizing outstanding workplace cultures in the aging services sector. Their mission includes producing the annual list of Fortune's Best Workplaces for Aging Services among other lists celebrating diversity, innovation, and employee satisfaction.