Acknowledging Small Businesses

At The Boulevard Senior Living of Wentzville, 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. Collectively, as a company, we showed up for over 350 small businesses. Even saying that out loud feels incredible! What may seem like a small act can make a big impact.

Our teams didn’t just stop in. They intentionally 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 is important because they serve as the backbone of the community. They understand local needs and reinvest in the area. They also foster meaningful connections. In a senior living setting, these partnerships create more personalized experiences for residents. They help cultivate an environment that feels warm, rooted, and welcoming, not just efficient.

Local Businesses That Make an Impact

The team at The Boulevard Senior Living of Wentzville proudly highlighted several local businesses that embody this sense of community. Pete’s Drive-In has been a local favorite since 1966. It is known for its fried chicken and gravy, house-made root beer, and its role as a gathering place. Imagination Pottery, a family-owned studio established in 2015, offers creative classes and supports local fundraisers through its events. Pitman Funeral Home, a family-operated business since 1922, was also recognized for its deep community ties and personal connection to residents and families.

Building Strong Community Connections

Throughout the year, our team actively engages local businesses by inviting them into the community. This includes live entertainment, wellness clinics, and educational opportunities. We also prioritize giving back through monthly acts of service.

This year, we are partnering with Heritage Elementary to host a food and school supply drive. We are also collaborating with Morgan School to create intergenerational programming. These efforts include seasonal events, games, and shared activities.

In addition, we are working with local animal rescue organizations on supply drives. We are also partnering with St. Charles County Ambulance District to support a community-wide food drive. Through these intentional efforts, we continue to build strong relationships. These connections enrich the lives of our residents and strengthen the broader Wentzville community.

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.