It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting Fort George in Highlands, NC gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Highlands, NC is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“For the past 6 months Always Best has provided compassionate care to my dear aunt.”
“Always Best Care has provided us with the best caregivers. We are blessed with an”
“We are so appreciative of the care and service of your team. Mariama was a”
“As we wind down our trip to New Jersey both Megan and I wish to”
“A special shoutout to our primary caregivers: Marie C. and Florette P.. They were outstanding!”
“Terrific company. Management is tops. Very caring staff. I highly recommend them. The staff and”
“Always Best Care Senior Services in Princeton Junction exceeded our expectations. Their team was kind,”
“Could not have asked for a more caring group of professionals. From care giver to”
“ABC COULD NOT HAVE DONE BETTER IN A CHANGING SITUATION WITH TWO TERMINALLY PATIENTS HAVING”
“Always best care took care of my father for about 10 years..Though my father was”
“ABC and their amazing care givers enabled our Aunt to get her last wish was”
“Mom developed an infection in the afternoon that left her too weak and disoriented to”
“Faithful, Love, and Family.”
“Very professional organization and sent the right aide, Sam, to help me with my father”
“I had a great experience with the agency, Always Best Care! I am attending college,”
“Roberto took care of my husband like he was a member of his family. He”
“The aide's were respectful, reliable and friendly and staff responds timely to calls and needs”
“Everyone was great. I’ve come a long way due to the help of your aides.”
“You have a GEM in Mrs. Terry. She is worth so much more than she”
“Very very helpful, I was desperate when I called and that same day I had”
“We had an exceptionally good experience with Always Best Care during my mother's illness. The”
“Thank you Jahima, Esther, Satta, Myra, Kelly & Susan. Carmen should be pleased. Keep up”
“Words cannot express how grateful my family and I am for the kindness, care, and”
“Gimbert & Carmen were very accommodating and knowledgeable with the needs of my father. They”
“You have been outstanding in caregiving and concern for us both. We cannot thank you”
“Gimbert and Carmen Fernandez are very knowledgeable in the area of elder care services and”
“My wife and I are eternally grateful to Always Best Care for the wonderful care”
“Your service was just what I needed. I would not hesitate to use your services”
“Mai was wonderful in every way. She gave great care to my father and also”
“ALWAYS BEST CARE, Princeton Junction is the place to call if you need help in”
“For the past 6 months Always Best has provided compassionate care to my dear aunt. Our primary caregiver was outstanding.....experienced, organized, warm and kind.....she became more than a caregiver, a friend that we depended on. All the caregivers that supported us on this journey were dedicated, professional, friendly and dependable. The administrative staff at Always Best Princeton were always available to assist and support. I offer my highest recommendation of Always Best Caregivers in Princeton.”
“Always Best Care has provided us with the best caregivers. We are blessed with an outstanding caregiver, Maria, who is exceptional in every way. Our recent substitute caregiver, Elizabeth, also provided my husband with excellent care. We so appreciate the high level of expertise, skill and overall care afforded to us by these wonderful ladies.”
“We are so appreciative of the care and service of your team. Mariama was a lovely caregiver, and I especially appreciated Carli's guidance throughout the process.”
“As we wind down our trip to New Jersey both Megan and I wish to thank you personally and Always Best Care for taking care of our needs! Your professionalism and support made our experience pleasant. After having experienced three different service providers in Maryland I can say your services are above par! And Ernesta is truly supportive of Megan’s needs. She is calm, compassionate and respectful. Also your on call service is very quick to react to our changing needs!”
“A special shoutout to our primary caregivers: Marie C. and Florette P.. They were outstanding! And extra thanks to Carli, who always came through when we needed backup. Many thanks to the ABC team for all the care you gave to my husband Al H. through 3 years of Parkinson's suffering, and the support you gave me through a hard time.”
“Terrific company. Management is tops. Very caring staff. I highly recommend them. The staff and management are extremely professional and caring, resulting in a very comfortable experience.”
“Always Best Care Senior Services in Princeton Junction exceeded our expectations. Their team was kind, attentive, and provided excellent care tailored to our family’s needs. Communication was clear and supportive throughout. We’re so grateful for their compassion and professionalism. Highly recommend them for anyone seeking trusted senior home care in the area!”
“Could not have asked for a more caring group of professionals. From care giver to support staff, they are exceptional”
“ABC COULD NOT HAVE DONE BETTER IN A CHANGING SITUATION WITH TWO TERMINALLY PATIENTS HAVING ALZ AND STAGE IV PANCREATIC CANCER. QUALITY OF CARE TAKER WAS SUPERB AND RESPONSIVENESS TO CHANGING NEEDS PERFECT.”
“Always best care took care of my father for about 10 years..Though my father was very lucid and managed his own care with the agency, I was at his house alot and participated in his care with the aids. They were all very caring and he kindly spoke of the owners being very attentive and offered very personalized care. They even visited him. I am very fond of many of the home health aids..they were loving and concerned. They took their job to another level. I even formed friendships with some of them. The golden years are a very delicate part of our lives. Always best care not only offered good physical care to my father, but unbounded love and compassion !!!! Thank you and he is looking down at us. I'm sure.”
“ABC and their amazing care givers enabled our Aunt to get her last wish was to die in her home. I can’t say enough about how ABC was able to give her a quality of life that she valued as well as provide comfort to her family knowing that she was in good hands with ABC's Caregivers. From the caregivers that always went the extra mile to the fast response we got 24x7 from folks like Carli…you were there for us!”
“Mom developed an infection in the afternoon that left her too weak and disoriented to care for herself for that night. I called Always Best Care Senior Services (ABC) at the very end of the business day, asking if they could find someone for one night of 12-hour private duty care on pretty much an emergency basis. The ABC team went to work and secured a caregiver for mom within a matter of hours for an 8pm-to-8am care shift at mom's senior living community. We had worked with ABC in the past on a scheduled basis, but this experience was above and beyond the call of regular duty and it truly helped us get through a difficult and stressful episode. We would recommend ABC for any and all of your senior care needs.”
“Faithful, Love, and Family.”
“Very professional organization and sent the right aide, Sam, to help me with my father in day to day activities. Sam helps him with gait training and understands dementia care and how to handle care, the way the client needs it. I would not hesitate using this agency and Sam is excellent.”
“I had a great experience with the agency, Always Best Care! I am attending college, and they always provided me an aide that is helpful, considerate, and hardworking. Thank you for always providing me with an aide like Ms. Colleta!!”
“Roberto took care of my husband like he was a member of his family. He was God sent; thank God for him”
“The aide's were respectful, reliable and friendly and staff responds timely to calls and needs”
“Everyone was great. I’ve come a long way due to the help of your aides. Thank you again!”
“You have a GEM in Mrs. Terry. She is worth so much more than she is paid! I miss her. Her help was timely, professional, and invaluable”
“Very very helpful, I was desperate when I called and that same day I had professional help. Tremendous your service”
“We had an exceptionally good experience with Always Best Care during my mother's illness. The management met with us and assigned caregivers almost immediately. As our needs evolved and increased, they were responsive and flexible. The caregivers were well-trained, kind, hard-working, and truly fine people whom we enjoyed having in the house.”
“Thank you Jahima, Esther, Satta, Myra, Kelly & Susan. Carmen should be pleased. Keep up the good work, and be safe!”
“Words cannot express how grateful my family and I am for the kindness, care, and concern that was shown for my husband by the Always Best Care staff. Thank you for the exceptional attention to his comfort, as well as the wonderful insights, strength, knowledge, and emotional support you showed our entire family. Watching someone you love make the transition out of this life is a really difficult thing, and your wisdom and comfort helped us navigate this challenging time. I will always be thankful for the service you provided for him. I would also like to acknowledge the excellent care provided to my husband by Ms. Marie Louisjean. We thank Ms. Louisjean for her incredible patience, tenderness, and attention to his needs. We thank her for being such a dedicated caregiver. God has given her a very special talent and He has blessed her with a compassionate heart. I could not have asked for a more passionate group of people. May God continue to bless the Always Best Care staff as you continue to care for people in need.”
“Gimbert & Carmen were very accommodating and knowledgeable with the needs of my father. They came out to his house and offered suggestions so that he would be able to get around with his walker easily. Their person took great care of my Dad. It is such a relief to my sister and I that we had someone stay with my Dad that was so reliable. I highly recommend them.”
“You have been outstanding in caregiving and concern for us both. We cannot thank you enough. Thanks for always being there for us in every way.”
“Gimbert and Carmen Fernandez are very knowledgeable in the area of elder care services and how best to provide workable care solutions for aging relatives. They are well informed on current issues and available options. I speak from my own experience here and strongly recommend then and their company to anyone in need of assistance in this area. They are compassionate and caring people which is critical in their business!”
“My wife and I are eternally grateful to Always Best Care for the wonderful care they provided for our Aunt and Uncle as they battled with diminishing health and mental conditions. Carmen and Gimbert were always available to us to answer questions and discuss aspects of care that was needed. Without their help the situations that we faced would have been so much worse. God Bless.”
“Your service was just what I needed. I would not hesitate to use your services in the future if needed. I would recommend you to anyone needing your help. Again, thank you for caring.”
“Mai was wonderful in every way. She gave great care to my father and also cared for me and my family.”
“ALWAYS BEST CARE, Princeton Junction is the place to call if you need help in caring for a loved one. We have a brother and his significant other who were living independently and when visiting them realized they had not been eating or keeping their home clean. Since we knew of Always Best Care and heard of their excellent reputation we contacted them. They immediately stepped in and assisted us in knowing what steps we needed to take. After taking both our brother and his significant other to the doctors and learning that they had the beginnings of Alzheimer’s disease, we met with Carmen who helped us set up a plan. She suggested that we start with a few days a week of in home care so that we would know that they were eating. She provided us with excellent aids that not only helped prepare meals, but also interacted with our family members to encourage socialization. These few days increased to five days a week which left us with Saturday and Sunday to monitor their eating. While this was taking place, Carmen helped us find an Assisted Living Community where they could move. We visited several in the area and decided on one after consulting with Carmen. She and Gimbert were always available to take our calls if we had any questions. They helped us with finding someone to clean out the house and assisted us in relocating our bother and his significant other to their new home. We have recommended Always Best Care to several of our neighbors who have needed assistance with caring for loved ones. Carmen is on top of any situation that needs attention. Whether a person needs an aid for a week, a month or indefinitely she arranges the right person for the client’s needs. Always Best Care, Carmen and Gimbert, cared for our family members as if they were their own family. We would not have been able to care for our family members as well as the aids from Always Best Care.Hopefully we will not need the services of Always Best Care again, but if we do we know that they will be there to help us.”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Grayson Highlands State Park in Highlands, NC with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local The Secret Garden or visit Urquhart Castle, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Highlands, NC, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Highlands, NC understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Highlands, NC 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
On a sun-dappled afternoon in late July, the Plateau gathered in quiet reverence and joyful celebration as Highlands unveiled its newest symbol of unity – a 12-foot Peace Pole, gifted to the town by the Mountaintop Rotary Club and the Rotary Club of Highlands.The ceremony, held beside the Highlands Community Building on US 64, marked the culmination of a year-long collaboration and joined Highlands with more than 250,000 communities worldwide who host Peace Poles bearing the universal message: May Peace Prevail on Earth.I...
On a sun-dappled afternoon in late July, the Plateau gathered in quiet reverence and joyful celebration as Highlands unveiled its newest symbol of unity – a 12-foot Peace Pole, gifted to the town by the Mountaintop Rotary Club and the Rotary Club of Highlands.
The ceremony, held beside the Highlands Community Building on US 64, marked the culmination of a year-long collaboration and joined Highlands with more than 250,000 communities worldwide who host Peace Poles bearing the universal message: May Peace Prevail on Earth.
In Highlands, that message is etched in Cherokee, Gaelic, Spanish, and English – a reflection of the town’s cultural tapestry and its commitment to honoring diverse voices.
Rotary Presidents Cath Connolly Hudson and Randy Foster presented the pole to Mayor Pat Taylor, who commended the Rotarians for sparking a meaningful dialogue about peace in a time when such conversations are more vital than ever.
The dedication ceremony unfolded with heartfelt grace. Jessica Jenkins, Rigo Ortega, Alistair Fox, and Cath Connolly Hudson each offered a poem, prayer, or song from their heritage, weaving a lyrical thread through the afternoon’s proceedings. Children from the Highlands Community Child Development Center sang “It’s a Small World,” their voices rising amid a sea of handmade peace doves, pinwheels, and signs crafted by students from The Bascom, The Gordon School, the Boys and Girls Club, HCCDC, The Literacy and Learning Center, and local residents.
Bagpipers Margaret Tooke and Glenn Morris bookended the event with soulful airs, lending a Highland solemnity to the occasion and reminding all present of the town’s unique cultural heartbeat.
The vision for expanding Peace Poles across North Carolina originated with Rotary District Governor Connie Molland, who attended the Highlands dedication alongside incoming Governor Alex Portelli. Molland praised the initiative as a beacon of Rotary International’s mission to foster peace through education, mediation, and community engagement.
Architect Jim Ward and landscape architect Hank Ross led the design, with contributions from Robi Decking, Yonah Mountain Timber Frame, Rigo’s Stonework, Bryson’s Grading, Tate Landscaping, and Reeves Ace Hardware.
The Peace Pole now stands as a quiet sentinel of hope, inviting all who pass to pause, reflect, and carry peace forward.
For more information, contact Jane Jerry at [email protected] or Cath Connolly Hudson at [email protected].
When temperatures soar across the South, you don't have to travel far to find a welcome respite from the heat. Or to see breathtaking fall foliage as temperatures start to drop, as summer turns to fall. Cashiers, North Carolina, is a town built upon a plateau in the Blue Ridge Mountains, and its rainforest landscape offers daytime highs in the summer that feel like you're just a few degrees away from pumpkin spice.This mountain town—and several more that surround it in Jackson County—has a summer camp attitude that is full...
When temperatures soar across the South, you don't have to travel far to find a welcome respite from the heat. Or to see breathtaking fall foliage as temperatures start to drop, as summer turns to fall. Cashiers, North Carolina, is a town built upon a plateau in the Blue Ridge Mountains, and its rainforest landscape offers daytime highs in the summer that feel like you're just a few degrees away from pumpkin spice.
This mountain town—and several more that surround it in Jackson County—has a summer camp attitude that is full of nostalgia. There's a rustic elegance to everything there. Abundant flower beds are at home next to bent twig furniture. Locals meet outdoors for laid-back lunches al fresco and cozy fire pit evenings alike, while making sure to show you the latest photo they snapped of a bear strolling by.
From hiking to swimming hole hopping to shopping and eating, there's as much to do in this small town as there is in many twice its size. Need help planning? Here's where we would stay, what we would eat and drink, and what we would do with a visit to Cashiers, North Carolina.
For a stay that feels both like going back in time to a nostalgic summer camp and also immersing yourself in a curated, relaxing getaway, book a few nights at High Hampton Resort. This classic inn was reimagined in 2021 through the eyes of the Blackberry Farm team, and it has a charm that blends historic memories, vintage elements, and vibrant, colorful textiles. While you're there, take a pickleball lesson, try your hand at canoeing on Hampton Lake, roast s'mores by the fire, or go for a swim in the pool. This is the place to truly embrace that carefree camp attitude—while staying in the comfort of a luxury resort.
; 1525 State Route 107 #1525, Cashiers, NC 28717
Bring the whole family for drinks and food at a brewery that's designed for being outside. With plenty of room to run around, Whiteside Brewing Co. is a perfect midday spot on a beautiful afternoon. There's beer, of course, but you'll also find everything from a kale caesar to a wagyu smash burger to wings.
; 128 State Route 107, Cashiers, NC 28717
Large windows overlooking Rock Mountain and American Chestnut paneling set the stage for a dining experience that feels a bit like stepping back in time at High Hampton. The Dining Room is a restaurant where people still get dressed up for dinner, and the menu offers upscale Southern-inspired fare. There are different menus on back-to-back nights, so you can always return and expect a different meal.
; 1525 State Route 107 #1525, Cashiers, NC 28717
When you need caffeine, pop into the quaint Buck's Coffee Cafe. This no-frills spot fills up with locals and tourists alike. Get here early or late to avoid the reliable crowd that shows up for their morning cup of joe.
facebook.com/BucksCoffeeCafe; 6 State Route 107, Cashiers, NC 28717
Whether you've been out hiking in the mountains or shopping in town, Slab Town Pizza is an easy spot to grab hand-tossed pizzas and craft beer. There's plenty of outdoor seating for those perfect Cashiers afternoons. While you're in the neighborhood, Crossroads Custard & Cold Brew is just a few doors down. The array of flavors is unbeatable, as is the range of toppings.
; 45 Slab Town Road, Cashiers, NC 28717 crossroadscustard.com; 45 Slab Town Road A6, Cashiers, NC 28717
Sitting out in the gardens behind Canyon Kitchen, you might have one of those moments where you start looking up Zillow, wondering how quickly you can make a move. From the flowers surrounding the tables in the garden to the sweeping views through the valley, the experience of waiting for your table with a cocktail in hand rivals the meal itself. But you'll eventually want to head indoors to eat, and neither the ambiance nor the food will disappoint.
; 94 Lonesome Valley Road, Sapphire, NC 28774
Coruncopia feels like the type of place families have been coming to for generations. It opens up for the season in the spring, beckoning guests onto its classic porch—hence its title as "Cashiers' Favorite Porch." Order classic casual meals, including burgers and sandwiches, but don't miss the buttermilk pie for dessert.
cornucopianc.com; 16 Cashiers School Road, Cashiers, NC 28717
The Zachary-Tolbert House stands out amidst the mountain-inspired architecture of Cashiers, and it exists just as it did when it was built 150 years ago. It was intentionally designed to look reminiscent of houses built in South Carolina and Georgia, with the goal of drawing in travelers from those areas. Its builder, Mordecai Zachary, believed the Greek Revival style would feel familiar and more appealing than other possible boarding houses in the area. Today, you walk into the home and are immediately taken aback by how unchanged it is—there's not a drop of paint on the walls.
This house, and several other structures on the property, tell the story of how Cashiers came to be. It was primarily the work of Colonel John Zachary and his children, including Mordecai, who came to the area following a land grant. They set up shop as accountants and cashiers for the North Carolina gold miners, and, thus, the name Cashiers was born.
; 1940 State Route 107, Cashiers, NC 28717
For history that is more specifically tailored to the evolution of Cashiers as a resort town and the "rustic" yet curated escapes of the early 20th century, head back over to High Hampton. Their in-house historian leads daily history tours that not only cover the tales of the families that created High Hampton, but also their relationship to other properties of the time, including the Biltmore. You'll be transported back to Gilded Age grandeur in the mountains as you learn about Dr. William Stewart Halsted and Caroline Hampton Halstead, E. L. and Gertrude McKee, and the others who participated in the evolution of this mountain escape.
; 1525 State Route 107 #1525, Cashiers, NC 28717
The Blue Ridge Mountains are a playground for those who love the outdoors, with trails of varying difficulties and varying payoffs at the end. You can hike a short route to Silver Run Falls, with a 25-foot waterfall and a spot for a refreshing dip at the end. Cashiers Sliding Rock is another favorite with, unsurprisingly, a slick, smooth rock that's perfect for sliding into a shallow pool. The Upper Whitewater Falls Trail is another easy, though slightly longer, trail that offers gorgeous views of the falls at the end.
If your ideal getaway involves pampering, then head over to the Canyon Spa at Lonesome Valley. Housed inside a charming cottage that once belonged to the caretaker of the 800-acre Lonesome Valley property, this serene spa offers multiple treatment rooms and a porch to relax before or after your session.
; 121 Lonesome Valley Road, Sapphire, NC 28774
Cashiers is a hidden gem for antiquing with finds across styles and budgets. Stop by Vivianne Metzger Antiques for 18th and 19th-century English and French antiques. Meanwhile, the Bazaar Barn, a charity shop run by Good Shepherd of Cashiers, has a range of prices. You'll find incredible, ornate antique furniture in one room and affordable glassware and home goods in another.
; 31 Canoe Point, Cashiers, NC 28717goodshepherdcashiers.org/bazaar-barn; 1846 State Highway 107N, Cashiers, NC 28717
For a small town, Cashiers punches above its weight when it comes to shopping. From high-end clothing at TJ Baileys and Vivace to the treasure trove of consignment finds at Victoria's Closet to colorful resort wear at Bella Cotn, you'll have no trouble finding a new outfit for dinner. Want to daydream about your future home in the mountains? Stop by Rusticks.
facebook.com/vivace828, 104 State Rte 107, Cashiers, NC 28717 victoriasclosetnc.com, 29 Marmalade Ln, Cashiers, NC 28717 tjbaileys.com, 95 State Rte 107, Cashiers, NC 28717 rusticks.com, 32 Canoe Pt, Cashiers, NC 28717 bella-cotn.myshopify.com, 236 State Rte 107, Cashiers, NC 28717
Living Roofs, Inc. is pleased to announce that the Highlands Biological Station North Campus Gateway and Pollinator Garden has received a 2025 North Carolina ASLA Merit Award!This innovative project features 100% endemic plants to the Highlands Plateau, providing habitat for native pollinators and invertebrates, and a ?oating teaching pavilion with a custom, dual-media green roof system designed to support native species and maximize stormwater management.We are grateful to have worked alongside a talented team...
Living Roofs, Inc. is pleased to announce that the Highlands Biological Station North Campus Gateway and Pollinator Garden has received a 2025 North Carolina ASLA Merit Award!
This innovative project features 100% endemic plants to the Highlands Plateau, providing habitat for native pollinators and invertebrates, and a ?oating teaching pavilion with a custom, dual-media green roof system designed to support native species and maximize stormwater management.
We are grateful to have worked alongside a talented team, including project lead, Hutch Kerns of Kerns Land Planning and Design, Holden Design Shop, Robinson Design Engineers, and invaluable contributions by the founder and director of Bee City USA, a Pollinator Conservation Specialist with the Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation, HBS staff and ecologists, and the HBS Foundation.
Although relatively small in scale, this project has had an outsized impact and embodies the mission of the HBS by transforming an entry enhancement into an immersive living landscape for all species.
Floating at the edge of Lindenwood Lake, The Sto Teaching Pavilion at the Highlands Biological Station (HBS) is a multipurpose pavilion for learning, quiet reflection, and immersion in the rich ecology of the surrounding forests, wetlands, bogs, and pollinator gardens.
This floating classroom is blanketed by a vegetated roof which surprises and delights visitors with its seasonal blooms and leafy foliage while demonstrating the benefits of green roofs. Living Roofs designed the green roof system to support native species endemic to the Highlands Plateau, one of the most biodiverse ecological niches in the world. The green roof plantings mimic the surrounding pollinator plantings and visually and ecologically integrate the outdoor classroom pavilion into the site and the narrative of the Highlands Biological Station.
Although relatively small in scale, this project has had an outsized impact and embodies the mission of the HBS by transforming an entry enhancement into an immersive living landscape for all species.
Living Roofs Inc. is an experienced, award-winning design and construction company specializing in end-to-end implementation of landscape on structure. With 100s of commercial and residential projects successfully completed across the Southeast since 2006, we’ve dedicated years to mastering the nuanced complexity of vegetated roofs and landscape on structure —from design to construction and ongoing care & maintenance. The path to a perfect landscape on structure shouldn’t feel complicated. We’re not going to say it’s easy, but with Living Roofs, it will feel that way.
The Bascom: A Center for the Visual Arts will host the 15th Annual Dazzling Dahlia Festival from September 4–6, 2025. This community-centered program brings horticulture into dialogue with the visual arts through a weekend of public events, including a fall reception, floral installations, a juried single bloom competition, studio pottery offerings, and educational presentations.In advance of the festival, The Bascom will present an educational talk by longtime grower Peggy Boruchow Arnette on Saturday, August 30, at 11 a.m. Des...
The Bascom: A Center for the Visual Arts will host the 15th Annual Dazzling Dahlia Festival from September 4–6, 2025. This community-centered program brings horticulture into dialogue with the visual arts through a weekend of public events, including a fall reception, floral installations, a juried single bloom competition, studio pottery offerings, and educational presentations.
In advance of the festival, The Bascom will present an educational talk by longtime grower Peggy Boruchow Arnette on Saturday, August 30, at 11 a.m. Designed for both new and experienced enthusiasts, the session will clarify what makes a bloom competition-ready and prepare participants to present their dahlias for judging in the Single Bloom Competition.
The festival opens with The Bascom’s Fall Reception on Thursday, September 4, at 5 p.m. The evening will mark the start of the fall exhibition season, recognize Shannon Woodford the winner of the 2025 Dahlia Poster Contest, and formally launch the Dazzling Dahlia Festival. Guests are invited to view the exhibitions, enjoy light refreshments, and preview the weekend’s floral-themed programs.
Throughout the weekend, visitors can experience Petals and Perspectives, a special floral design showcase on view September 4–6. Participating nonprofit organizations will create arrangements in direct response to works of art on view in The Bascom’s galleries, fostering a thoughtful exchange between botanical design and visual art.
Fall Exhibitions
The Bascom’s fall exhibitions remain on view beyond the festival weekend:
• Community Call: History of Highlands — through November 29.
• Chatov: A Retrospective of Works by Roman, Constantin, and Marc Chatov —through January 3, 2026.
• Forms of Inspiration: Ceramic Artists of the Bascom Clay Symposium — through November 29.
Single Bloom Competition
The festival’s signature event invites dahlia growers of all ages and experience levels to present their finest blooms. The juried show will be on view Friday, September 5, from 3:30 to 5 p.m., and Saturday, September 6, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free.
Studio Member Pottery Show
Running concurrently on September 5 and 6 in The Bascom’s Studio Barn, this sale features handcrafted wall pockets and vases created by Studio Members. Each work will be adorned with fresh dahlias and available for purchase.
The Dahlia Dialogue with Drew English
Renowned gardener and dahlia expert Drew English will present The Dahlia Dialogue on Saturday, September 6, at 11 a.m. at The Bascom. This accessible talk traces the history of dahlias with particular attention to their legacy on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau. The session will include an extended Q&A. Attendees are encouraged to bring dahlia specimens for individualized diagnostics and practical growing advice.
Emerging Designer Collaboration
This year’s festival and exhibition collateral were developed in collaboration with the inaugural cohort of The Bascom’s Emerging Designer Program: Seth Baker and Parks Felton, graphic design students at Western Carolina University. Felton contributed design for the Dazzling Dahlia Festival, while Baker developed materials for Chatov: A Retrospective. The internship provides hands-on experience in arts marketing, design strategy, and visual communication.
All events are free and open to the public. For details, visit thebascom.org or follow @TheBascom on social media.
The countdown is on for the Highlands-Cashiers Center for Life Enrichment’s Fifth Annual Highlands Porchfest! On Sunday, September 21 from 1:00 to 6:00 P.M., the streets of downtown Highlands will come alive with the sounds of nearly every genre imaginable (sorry Swedish death metal fans, maybe next year) at various venues and businesses around town.Whether you’re a fan of rock and roll, gospel, country, latin pop, singer-songwriter, or even bagpipes, there’s sure to be a sound that suits everyone!New to Porch...
The countdown is on for the Highlands-Cashiers Center for Life Enrichment’s Fifth Annual Highlands Porchfest! On Sunday, September 21 from 1:00 to 6:00 P.M., the streets of downtown Highlands will come alive with the sounds of nearly every genre imaginable (sorry Swedish death metal fans, maybe next year) at various venues and businesses around town.
Whether you’re a fan of rock and roll, gospel, country, latin pop, singer-songwriter, or even bagpipes, there’s sure to be a sound that suits everyone!
New to Porchfest this year is the festival’s “Family Zone” at The Bascom. Parents and kiddos alike are encouraged to stop by for all sorts of free family fun. There will be an arts and crafts station with coloring and rock painting, live music (of course!), dancing, and more!
The Highlands-Cashiers Hospital will also be on site with their “Teddy Bear Clinic.” Kids can bring their own stuffed animals – or adopt one on site – for a “checkup” by a health care professional and learn all about medical procedures and instruments, how to fix “boo-boos,” and help alleviate fears around hospital workers and environments. There will also be free water and snacks while supplies last.
Also new to Porchfest this year is the festival’s first ever collaboration with the Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival.
Be on the lookout for two HCCMF musicians, cellist Helen Kim and violinist Charae Krueger, who will bring a whole new sound to our ever-growing musical lineup. We are thrilled to have HCCMF musicians represented at this year’s festival. If you missed their stellar performances during the Chamber Music Festival, then this is your chance to witness these remarkably talented artists.
Highlands Porchfest is organized by the Highlands-Cashiers Center for Life Enrichment staff, board members, and volunteers. The event is free to attend, and all are welcome. The festival’s goal is to support local musicians, businesses, and the community through a day of fun, free, inclusive music and connection.
No outside event producers or marketing agencies are commissioned, however CLE can’t bring this event to life alone. Thank you to all of our 2025 event sponsors, volunteers, Arts Reach Council of Macon County, and Plateau community for your ongoing support. You’re the ones who truly rock!
For more information on Porchfest, artists, venues, schedules, or how to get involved, please visit highlandsporchfest.com. We hope to see you there!
609-455-2886
