There’s nothing quite like the joy of seeing smiles, laughter, and pure excitement fill the air — and that’s exactly what happened during our first-ever Resident Vacation to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.
From Monday, September 29 through Thursday, October 2, residents from Beaver Dam, Elizabeth Care Center, Harbor Healthcare, The Cottages of Clayton, Madison Park, Maple Grove, and Providence Pointe came together for an incredible week of adventure, relaxation, and connection in the beautiful Smoky Mountains.
This inaugural group of vacationers is the first to be added to the PH Consulting Resident Vacation Club, officially kicking off a new tradition of joyful, all-inclusive trips for our residents and their care partners.
What made this trip truly special was how it came to life. Each participating community hosted creative fundraisers from June until departure, ensuring that every resident and their care partners could attend with all expenses paid.
From art auctions and quarter auctions to dunk tanks, each event was filled with excitement, teamwork, and community spirit. Everyone worked together toward one inspiring goal — to make this dream vacation a reality. The generosity and dedication of these communities were truly amazing.
When the residents and their care partners arrived at the brand-new Embassy Suites Resort, they were greeted by the wonderful and engaging Resident Vacation Club Event Staff.
The Event Staff assisted with unloading buses, helped everyone find their rooms, and ensured the first moments of the trip felt smooth and welcoming. Inside each room, residents found care packages filled with snacks, goodies, event shirts, and handwritten cards from the support staff, along with cinch bags and coin pouches generously donated by Pigeon Forge Tourism.
The resort itself offered breathtaking mountain views, cozy fire pits, and sparkling poolside seating — the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable stay.
The first night kicked off at The Island in Pigeon Forge with a lively group dinner at Margaritaville. After dinner, some residents shopped the charming stores while others enjoyed the mesmerizing light show and dancing fountains.
Several of our brave residents and their care partners even took on The Wheel, experiencing panoramic views of the park and the Smoky Mountains at night. A perfect start to an unforgettable vacation!
This was a wonderful experience! Thank you!
- Karen, Staff
Day two began with a delicious breakfast on the 7th floor of Embassy Suites, offering breathtaking views of the mountains.
The day continued with a full adventure at Dollywood, where residents enjoyed shows, shopping, and sampling tasty treats. Some of the thrill-seekers faced their inner daredevils by riding every rollercoaster in the park!
Arriving right at park opening and staying until closing, residents and care partners truly embraced the excitement, energy, and wonder of a full day at Dollywood. It was a day filled with laughter, adventure, and memories to last a lifetime.
Nico & I survived the Wild Eagle!
- Hannah, Staff at ECC
Day three featured a very special experience — a police escort to Gatlinburg, provided by the local Police Department. While sirens and flashing lights weren’t used for safety, the escort made residents feel like true VIPs as the buses traveled safely through the scenic mountain roads.
The group then explored Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, enjoying colorful sea life and underwater tunnels, followed by lunch on-site.
The day concluded with a lively evening at the Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Show, complete with laughter, music, and a hearty Southern-style meal.
Resident Vacations are about more than travel — they’re a celebration of life, community, and connection. These trips give residents the opportunity to explore new places, build relationships, and create lasting memories with the care partners who support them every day.
Moments like these remind us that joy has no age limit and that shared experiences strengthen the heart of every community.
I have had the best time, this trip was worth a million dollars!
-Liz H, Resident
To every team member, family supporter, and community participant — thank you for believing in the vision of the Resident Vacation. Your generosity, creativity, and commitment made this trip not only possible but truly unforgettable.
As we reflect on the laughter, the handwritten cards, the VIP escort, the scenic views, and the shared adventures, one thing is certain: this is only the beginning of many more journeys to come. Here’s to more smiles, more memories, and more Resident Vacations that fill our hearts with joy!
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Let me get a days rest, we can go back for more fun tomorrow in TN.
- Betty P, Resident