ThriveMore Honored with Innovation Award for EverTogether Residence
ThriveMore has been recognized by LeadingAge North Carolina with an Innovation Award for the EverTogether Residence, a groundbreaking new model of memory care currently under construction at Brookridge in Winston-Salem.
The award was presented last week at the LeadingAge NC annual conference in Asheville, celebrating the project’s unique contribution to senior living and its vision for supporting couples navigating dementia together.
A Personal “Why” That Sparked a New Model
President and CEO Reed VanderSlik accepted the award on behalf of ThriveMore, sharing the story of what inspired the concept.
Years ago, Reed attended a support group for partners of individuals living with dementia. What he heard there has stayed with him ever since.
These independent living residents wanted to continue living with their partners, but still have the ability to step away at times, knowing their loved one was safe and cared for.
Instead, many couples were being separated when one partner needed memory care — moving into different living environments despite a lifetime of shared routines.
One particular moment left a lasting impression.
A gentleman spoke about the simple rituals that had defined his marriage: eating dinner together and holding hands while falling asleep.
“And I can still remember, with a tear running down his cheek, he said, ‘As beautiful as the place where my wife is is, we can’t do either one,’” Reed recalled.
“That became my why.”
Reimagining Memory Care for Partners
That experience planted the seed for what would eventually become EverTogether — a model designed to keep couples connected while providing the care and support they need.
It has taken years of planning, collaboration and the right moment to bring the idea to life. ThriveMore worked alongside dementia care experts from across the country, as well as innovative architects at CJMW Architecture, to design something entirely new.
The result is a thoughtfully designed community centered on connection:
• A circular layout made up of 12 homes
• Private residences that feel like individual homes from the outside
• Attached rear studios that connect to a shared courtyard
• A central clubhouse staffed by specially trained caregivers
This design allows couples to continue living together while also providing access to expert care whenever it’s needed — creating flexibility and peace of mind.
Setting a New Standard for the Industry
The EverTogether concept is already drawing attention across the field of aging services.
“I’m super excited about the concept, because it keeps the couple together — and that’s new in the industry,” said Dr. Ed Shaw, author and counselor with a focus on dementia caregivers, in a recorded message shared at the award ceremony. “Nobody else that I’m aware of is doing that, and I think it’s going to become the industry standard.”
Looking Ahead
Construction of the EverTogether Residence is currently underway at Brookridge, with plans to welcome residents early next year.
For ThriveMore, this project reflects a continued commitment to listening and responding to the real needs of residents and their families. At its heart, EverTogether is about helping people stay connected to the ones they love.