For the past 10 years, Allison Boden has been a dedicated part of Presbyterian Senior Living, serving as Director of Social Work at Green Ridge Village. Her path into senior living was shaped by both academic interest and personal experience, and over the years, her role has grown into one that touches nearly every corner of campus life. Known for her compassion, advocacy, and steady presence, Allison is a trusted resource for residents, families, and fellow team members alike.
Allison’s interest in working with older adults began early. While in college, she minored in gerontology, and her close relationship with her grandparents helped deepen her appreciation for seniors and their stories. Personal experience also played a role in shaping her path, particularly seeing her grandfather receive care in a nursing facility.
That combination of academic preparation and personal connection led Allison into senior living and healthcare, where she found work that felt both meaningful and deeply personal.
As Director of Social Work at Green Ridge Village, Allison’s responsibilities have expanded significantly over time. What once centered more closely on the healthcare center has evolved into a broader campus-wide role involving more groups, projects, and collaboration across departments.
No two days are ever exactly the same. Her work often includes meetings, emails, conversations with residents and families, discharge planning, and helping long-term residents settle into their new home. She also serves as an important point of contact when families have questions or concerns, helping bridge communication and support across the community.
What matters most to Allison is being there for residents and doing her very best for them each day.
When reflecting on her own growth, Allison shared that one of the biggest lessons she would give her younger self is simple: do not be afraid to speak up.
Over the years, her role has helped her build confidence, especially when it comes to advocating for residents and their care. That confidence has become one of her greatest strengths, allowing her to speak up when it matters most and ensure residents and families feel supported.
Some of Allison’s proudest moments at PSL are the ones that reflect the heart of resident-centered care.
One memory that stands out is helping organize a “Christmas in July” celebration for a resident who loved Christmas but was declining quickly and would not make it to December. Staff brought presents, and the team helped connect the resident with their brother by FaceTime, creating a meaningful moment of joy and connection.
Another moment came more recently, when Allison worked alongside a speech therapist to help a short-term rehab resident be discharged home the very same day so they could spend their final moments with their spouse. For Allison, these are the moments that reveal the true weight and purpose of her work: the chance to make a real difference in someone’s life.
Throughout her time at PSL, Allison has been grateful for the example of strong women leaders. Most recently, she has especially admired Executive Director Amber Hurley for the way she balances leadership responsibilities with home life.
Allison also speaks warmly about Green Ridge Village itself. Set on 450 beautiful acres, the community offers many special places, but one of her favorites is the Chapel in the Woods, a peaceful spot where she can pause and take a breath during a busy day.
She describes Green Ridge Village as deeply resident-focused, with team members who are committed to doing the most they can for those they serve. She also values the residents themselves, noting their diversity, intelligence, and the many remarkable stories they bring with them.
For Allison, one of the best parts of working at Green Ridge Village is the dynamic within the health center team. She describes the group as one that works well together, supports one another, and stays focused on the same shared goal.
That spirit of teamwork extends beyond daily responsibilities. Allison is also involved in efforts that support and appreciate fellow team members, including employee appreciation activities and the employee giving program. As one of the chairs for that initiative, she helps raise funds for programs such as the Team Member Assistance Fund, which provides financial support to employees facing unexpected hardships.
After a decade with PSL, Allison continues to be guided by a deep commitment to residents and families. Whether she is helping someone navigate a transition, advocating for care, or creating a meaningful moment during a difficult time, she approaches her work with compassion and purpose.
Her story reflects the kind of mission-driven leadership that defines Presbyterian Senior Living: showing up, speaking up, and making a difference where it matters most.
If you’d like, I can also turn this into a slightly more conversational version that sounds even closer to PSL’s published blog voice, with a tighter headline and final polish for posting.