Carey Leigh recently earned her Functional Aging Group Exercise Specialist Certification through the Functional Aging Institute. Congratulations Carey Leigh!

What attracted you to working at Givens Estates?

I developed a love for working with the senior population as a Wellness Director at a Senior Living Community in Spartanburg, SC. My friend, Elisha, encouraged me to apply to the Wellness Coordinator position at Givens and gave me a tour of the campus. After viewing the beautiful campus and meeting lots of wonderful, friendly people, I knew instantly that I wanted to work here!

What are a few of your primary responsibilities?

One of the highlights of my role at Givens is teaching exercise classes and bringing energy and fun to working out! I also meet one-on-one with new residents and do an orientation with them, to help them learn about the Wellness Center and about their fitness levels.

What do you like about coming to Givens Estates every day?

I love coming to Givens because I get to pursue what I’m passionate about: helping others reach their fitness goals! I get to meet residents and learn about their lives and help them feel better about themselves through exercise. The staff here are awesome and very supportive. The campus is gorgeous with the beautiful Appalachian Mountains in the background. Sometimes I pinch myself because I can’t believe I get the opportunity to work for such a wonderful place with amazing people!

How is your job rewarding?

I love to hear how exercise has made an impact in people’s lives. When someone tells me they were able to walk farther with their loved ones during a vacation or that they are able to lift more than they’ve lifted in years, I know I’ve made a difference! Coming to work and seeing smiling faces always makes me feel happy and puts a smile on my face too! That is my biggest reward, knowing that I’ve touched someone’s life in a positive way.

What is a fun fact about you?

I have a twin sister named Carly, so I go by Carey Leigh to avoid confusion! I used to be a competitive runner and an amateur bodybuilder, but have slowed down a bit to enjoy the wonderful food here in Asheville! On my off days I love to play guitar and sing at some of the local open mics in downtown.

What is one word that describes you best?

Smiley 😉