Ovation Heartwood Preserve: Redefining Senior Living in Omaha
Ovation Heartwood Preserve opened its assisted living and memory care residences in April 2022, followed by the launch of its independent living community in August 2024. Since then, it has become a trusted name in senior living, offering a modern environment where care, comfort, and connection are at the forefront.
A standout feature is Meadowlark, Omaha’s first female-only memory care neighborhood. Designed by women for women, Meadowlark offers enhanced privacy and safety while encouraging friendship and community among residents. This unique approach supports a meaningful experience for those living with memory loss. Since opening, they have received several well-known honors, including the Omaha’s Choice Awards (2023 and 2024), the Activated Insights Customer Experience Award, Best of Omaha 2025, and a 2024 Bronze Quality Award from the National Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living. The Customer Experience Award is especially meaningful, as it is based on direct feedback from residents and families.
Focused on Quality for Residents and Employees
Ovation Heartwood Preserve’s commitment to quality shows in the results. In 2024, the community was rated best in class by Activated Insights for its food, menu variety, activities, and cleanliness. It also reported a 91% new hire retention rate, with 86% of new hires saying they would recommend working at Ovation—a strong reflection of a positive team environment and clear leadership support.
Supporting the Community
This organization actively supports the Alzheimer’s Association, including participation in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Through its management organization, Areté Living, the team joins a larger network committed to raising awareness and funding for dementia research. Their support is rooted in their daily commitment to serving those impacted by memory loss.
Over the past three years, they have remained dedicated to supporting the Alzheimer’s Association through local sponsorships, fundraising, and community events—helping provide vital resources and making a positive impact across the Omaha area.
A Culture That Values People and Community
Ovation Heartwood Preserve fosters an environment where both employees and residents are respected, supported, and encouraged to be themselves. Through its connection with Areté Living, the organization creates a workplace culture that honors individual backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences.
Since 2020, the team has recognized key cultural moments through educational campaigns that include guest speakers, blog articles, videos, team discussions, and more. These activities help build awareness and encourage shared understanding. In 2023, their core values were updated to include “a culture of respect, belonging, and celebration of diversity.”
At the end of 2024, a new phase of the program launched with four focus areas: people, education, talent, and community—each with dedicated projects designed to foster a welcoming, respectful, and connected environment.
Positive Culture in Action
Since its start in 2020, this cultural initiative has grown significantly. In 2022, Kenny Dew was named Chair of the program’s council, and a company-wide culture assessment was conducted to learn more about employee experiences and how the organization could better support them.
In 2023, new values were adopted to reinforce the importance of belonging and respect in daily work and decision-making. In 2024, Juneteenth became a recognized company holiday, and the program evolved to include long-term goals focused on people and community. These steps continue to shape a workplace where every team member can do their best work and feel like they are part of something meaningful.
Leading Through Innovation
“Innovation, not emulation” is a core value. From technology to dining, the community looks for new ways to create better experiences for residents. The Ovation Connections™ memory care program incorporates music therapy, pet visits, tactile therapy, circadian lighting, and other tools to support meaningful connection. Apartments include smart home features that let residents adjust lighting and temperature with ease. Technology also helps keep families connected to community life through activity updates and announcements. Dining is another example, with exhibition-style kitchens that allow residents to see meals being prepared—turning a meal into a shared experience. These thoughtful innovations reflect a commitment to improving daily life in every area of the community.
Growing with Heart & Purpose
Ovation Heartwood Preserve’s commitment to innovation is reflected not only in its technology and programs, but in the dedication of its team. In just two years, the organization successfully expanded to include independent living and earned recognition for its exceptional culinary offerings. These milestones are the result of a team that continually looks for new and better ways to support residents and enhance the senior living experience. At its core, the community is a standing ovation for older adults. With personalized care, a thoughtfully designed environment, and a culture built on respect and connection, it offers residents a place to thrive—with access to the services, comfort, and opportunities they deserve.
Connecting Through the Greater Omaha Chamber
Being part of the Greater Omaha Chamber has given Ovation Heartwood Preserve valuable opportunities to connect with other local organizations and businesses. It has helped the team stay engaged in the community, support fellow businesses, and share what makes the Ovation lifestyle special with more people across Omaha.
Learn more about Ovation Heartwood Preserve