Acknowledging Small Businesses - Walden Place Senior Living

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April 10, 2026

Acknowledging Small Businesses

Category: Culture & Traditions

Author: Ken Duff, Executive Director

At Walden Place 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. Together, as a company, we showed up for over 350 small businesses. Even saying that out loud feels incredible!

A team member from Walden Place Senior Living smiles with the owner of a local pub, and a gift basket given in appreciation.

What may seem like a small act can make a big impact. Our teams didn’t just stop in. They 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 are an essential part of the community. They represent neighbors, families, and friends. Many also become future residents or trusted referral sources. Choosing local strengthens relationships and builds a more connected community.

Local Businesses Making an Impact

The team at Walden Place Senior Living highlighted several local businesses. Shakespeare’s Pub and Grill was recognized as a longtime favorite, known for its welcoming environment and quality service.

FadezbyBoda, a local barber and entrepreneur, was also highlighted. After relocating to Iowa City from Kansas City, he has built strong relationships with his customers while helping them look and feel their best.

The team also seeks out locally owned shops throughout the year. Visits to thrift stores, boutiques, and coffee shops create opportunities to support small businesses while discovering unique offerings. These efforts strengthen community connections and reinforce Walden Place’s commitment to local partnerships.

The owner of a local barbershop, FadezbyBoda, smiles alongside a team member from Walden Place Senior Living, holding a gifted box of doughnuts.

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.


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Walden Place Senior Living in Iowa City, Iowa, provides premier independent living for older adults. The community offers three professionally prepared meals daily, weekly housekeeping, and most utilities for one bundled price. Spacious apartments with patio or balcony, walk-in tub, and kitchenette are available in various floor plans. Amenities include restaurant dining, 24-hour bistro, concierge services, events and entertainment, transportation services, fitness area, game room, and lounge. The daily events calendar keeps residentsbodies and minds active and socially engaged. Customized personal care services are offered by trusted third-party providers. The community is conveniently located near shopping and dining options, scenic Willow Creek Park, The Englert Theatre, and the University of Iowa Museum of Art.  Schedule your tour of Walden Place Senior Living today Join the Walden Place Senior Living team

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