Royal Park of Matthews Rehabilitation and Health Center to Benefit from CMS-Funded Leadership Grant
Liberty Health and Rehab is dedicated to continuously enhancing the care and services we provide to our residents. That’s why we are excited to announce that Royal Park of Matthews Rehabilitation and Health Center is among the first skilled nursing and rehabilitation centers to benefit from a $380,000 grant awarded to FutureCare NC, a nonprofit organization established by the North Carolina Health Care Facilities Association (NCHCFA).
Funded by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), this grant will support the Building Culture Leaders Program over the next three years, bringing new leadership development opportunities to 40 skilled nursing and rehabilitation centers across North Carolina.
Empowering Leadership to Improve Senior Care
The Building Culture Leaders Program focuses on improving the health and well-being of skilled nursing center residents by equipping long-term care (LTC) leaders with essential knowledge and skills. The program’s goal is to foster leadership excellence and a positive organizational culture, ultimately driving quality improvement and person-centered care for residents.
The program will focus on the following:
- Resident-centered care through improved leadership practices
- Staff development and engagement to promote high-quality service
- Operational efficiency to create a positive environment for both residents and employees
The program is designed to directly impact over 1,000 LTC leaders and staff through:
- In-person leadership training sessions
- Onsite coaching and team-building workshops
- A structured curriculum focused on developing and sustaining resident-focused care
By the end of the three-year grant period, the program aims to:
- Increase resident and family satisfaction in quality of care and quality of life by 15 percent
- Strengthen organizational culture and leadership skills, with at least 75 percent of participants reporting improvement
Liberty Health and Rehab is proud to be part of this initiative, ensuring our communities are at the forefront of leadership excellence in long-term care. With this grant, Royal Park of Matthews is positioned to lead the way in implementing best practices that elevate the standard of care in skilled nursing and rehabilitation communities.
Kicking Off the Program at Royal Park of Matthews
The initiative officially launched with a special presentation from representatives of NCHCFA at Royal Park of Matthews, marking the beginning of this transformative journey. Mark Gogal, the Vice President of Workforce Development at NCHCFA, is leading the curriculum. Paul Babinski, NCHCFA Board Chair and Liberty Health and Rehab’s Vice President of Operations, also attended to discuss how this grant will benefit Royal Park of Matthews and long-term care in North Carolina.
“Lessons will be brought back to our Liberty Health and Rehab skilled care communities where most importantly, our engaged, empowered and more highly satisfied workforce will deliver resident care with elevated purpose and customer focus,” shared Babinski. “Ultimately, our goal is developing impassioned leaders that create a work culture of excellence that results in the best person-centered care for our residents and their families.”
As one of the first centers to participate in the Building Culture Leaders Program, Royal Park of Matthews is proud to set the stage for a new era of excellence in senior care. With access to cutting-edge training and leadership resources, our team at Royal Park of Matthews is eager to apply these insights to continue providing the highest quality of care to our residents. This grant represents an incredible opportunity to strengthen leadership and improve the overall resident experience in skilled nursing and rehabilitation centers.
Looking Ahead: Future Growth and Leadership Development
In addition to the Building Culture Leaders Program, Liberty Health and Rehab is fortunate to have a diverse group of leaders participating in the NCHCFA’s Institute for LTC Leaders.
Program participants include:
- Nicola James, LNHA, Administrator at Royal Park of Matthews Rehabilitation and Health Center
- Garret Keener, LNHA, Administrator at The Oaks
- Elizabeth Lockett, RN, LNHA, Administrator at Yadkin Nursing Center
- Leslie Robinson, RN, Director of Nursing at Liberty Commons Nursing and Rehabilitation Center of Lee County
- Becky Ballard, HR Coordinator at Silver Bluff Village
- Lashonda Ladson, Human Resources at Oak Forest Health and Rehabilitation Center
- Brittany Batot, Liberty Care Coordinator for Forsyth County
The Institute for LTC Leaders is making a meaningful impact, empowering passionate leaders to create work environments rooted in excellence. Our dedicated staff are applying these leadership lessons to their communities, reinforcing person-centered care that residents and families truly appreciate.
"Program participants are bringing back learned materials that are influencing positive work cultures, reinforcing the importance of participatory decision-making, reinforcing the value of engaged and recognized team members,” explained Babinski. “They are also sharing information and updates with generous transparency. This program is already making a positive difference to our attendees and is gaining positive traction.”
As Liberty Health and Rehab continues to embrace leadership development, we are excited to announce that another cohort of participants will soon be enrolling in this program. Multiple candidates from Liberty Health and Rehab are preparing to submit applications to participate, ensuring that our skilled nursing and rehabilitation centers remain at the forefront of excellence in care.
At Liberty Health and Rehab, we recognize that leadership excellence is a long-term commitment. However, as the saying goes, even a marathon begins with a single step. Through our involvement in the Building Culture Leaders Program and the Institute for LTC Leaders, we are taking bold steps toward developing strong, engaged leaders who are shaping the future of senior care.
About Liberty Health and Rehab
Liberty Health and Rehab is part of Liberty Health, a family-owned company that has provided continuum of care services across the Carolinas and beyond since 1875.
Southport Health and Rehabilitation Center Welcomes Residents Home After September Flooding
Southport Health and Rehabilitation Center is thrilled to welcome residents back home after relocating them due to the heavy rains that flooded the community in September. A welcome party of staff and local volunteers greeted residents with signs and balloons as they returned home after nearly five months. There were cheers, warm smiles, lots of hugs and even a few happy tears.
“They made it like a party for us,” shared returning resident, Susan Fogle. “As I recovered from my illness, this became my home. I thank everyone for that kind greeting they gave us. I’m looking at everything and it’s so clean and safe.”
During the last five months, Southport Health and Rehabilitation Center has undergone extensive remediation. Residents are returning to freshly painted walls, updated flooring and new furniture.
“We express our gratitude to our sister Liberty Health and Rehab centers for keeping our residents safe and cared for during this transition,” shared Southport Health and Rehabilitation Center Administrator Danielle Peters. “Our hearts are full as we welcome our residents back to their home!”
Southport Health and Rehabilitation Center is hosting a Ribbon Cutting and Open House on April 29, 2025 at 1:30 p.m. to showcase the recent upgrades to the community.
Southport Health and Rehabilitation Center provides a complete continuum of care, including short-term rehabilitation, skilled nursing, long-term living, assisted living, outpatient therapy, hospice care, palliative care and respite care.
About Liberty Health and Rehab
Liberty Health and Rehab is part of Liberty Health, a family-owned company that has provided continuum of care services across the Carolinas and beyond since 1875.
Westfield Rehabilitation and Health Center Voted Best Short/Long Term Rehabilitation for a Decade Straight
Westfield Rehabilitation and Health Center is honored to be voted the Best Short/Long Term Rehabilitation in The Sanford Herald’s Best of Lee County for the tenth straight year.
This decade-long recognition stands as a testament to Westfield Rehabilitation and Health Center’s unwavering commitment to caring with excellence by providing personalized, high-quality care to each resident.
“We know there are several healthcare options in Lee County, and we are humbled to be chosen one of the best options for residents when it comes to short and long-term rehabilitation,” shared Administrator Patience Osano. “We strive to deliver our mission every single day: ‘Cultivating Community. Enhancing Lives. Promoting Independence. Our Family. Your Family. Together. Every. Single. Day.’ Thank you, Lee County, for your votes of confidence for the tenth straight year.”
Westfield Rehabilitation and Health Center’s very own Samara Petty, LPN, was also honored with the distinction of being voted Best Nurse in Lee County.
“Samara is truly deserving of this award,” shared Director of Nursing Wesley Godfrey. “She goes the extra mile to advocate for our residents every single day. Samara loves what she does and she truly makes a difference in the lives of those she cares for. We admire and respect her commitment to caring for others and being the best possible nurse. Thank you, Samara, for everything you do.”
Westfield Rehabilitation and Health Center is proud to be a trusted resource for the Lee County community when it comes to providing a complete continuum of care, including short-term rehabilitation, long-term care, skilled nursing care, hospice care, respite care, palliative care and outpatient therapy.
About Us:
Liberty Health and Rehab is part of Liberty Health, a family-owned company that has provided continuum of care services across the Carolinas and beyond since 1875.
The Importance of Engaging Activities in Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Centers
Quality of life is something we all strive for, no matter our age or circumstances. For residents in skilled nursing and rehabilitation centers, maintaining a vibrant quality of life becomes essential to their overall well-being. Each resident arrives with a unique history, a set of talents, personal needs and goals. Recognizing and nurturing these individual qualities is central to creating an enriching environment where residents can thrive.
Engaging Activities: A Key to Quality of Life
Engaging activities are more than just leisure; they are integral to a resident’s physical, cognitive and emotional well-being. An activity is any pursuit, aside from routine daily living tasks, that enhances a resident’s sense of purpose and promotes health. These activities can include:
- Creative outlets, such as arts and crafts
- Social gatherings, like themed events or group games
- Physical activities, such as chair yoga
- Educational pursuits, including lectures or book discussions
"Activities keep my mind sharp, keep me thinking, keep me motivated, keep me exalted," said Katie Stankey, a resident of Mary Gran Nursing Center in Clinton, North Carolina. "I’m excited about coming, so it does a lot for me to come here every day. I try not to miss not one activity. I’m here at all of the activities and it’s a joy."
Creating Joyful Moments Through Activities
Engaging programs create opportunities for residents to build social connections, stay active and experience moments of joy.
"My role here as the activities director is to make sure the residents are not lonely, depressed or sad," said Alexis Tyson, Activities Director at Mary Gran Nursing Center.
The variety of activities offered at communities like Mary Gran Nursing Center ensures there is something for everyone.
"Activities have been a vital part of Mary Gran Nursing Center from the days of the facility opening in the early 70s," shared Marilynn Spell, Administrator of Mary Gran Nursing Center. "We have activities that take place inside and outside. It is not just solely an indoors thing. We have carnivals, trunk-or-treats, Family Day and Community Day. We’ve even had parades. We’ve done balloon releases. We’ve done a number of things here, so Alexis adds a lot of variety to the program."
Fostering Connection and Community
Activities provide more than just entertainment—they foster a sense of belonging and joy.
"When I go visit residents, I let them know that they don’t have to stay in their room and that there’s more than just therapy. They can come out and socialize with everyone," Tyson shared. "It gives them so much joy and so much hope when they come to activities. They’re so excited to come to activities and they’ll let everyone know that activities is where to come and where to be."
Bringing Residents and Staff Together
Activities help create a home-like atmosphere where staff and residents form close bonds.
"Alexis gets the staff involved with the activities as well, which is very rewarding to the residents. Our residents typically have that home-like atmosphere here and the staff become their family here. Alexis is their family," said Spell.
Residents also recognize the impact of activity professionals like Alexis Tyson. "Alexis plays a great role and has a great personality,” shared Stankey. “Everybody that comes this way, she reaches out to them. It makes me know she has a heart for people and that’s the joy that I see in her. She’s a great motivator.”
Engaging activities are a cornerstone of quality care in skilled nursing and rehabilitation centers. From arts and crafts to community-wide celebrations, these programs enrich residents’ lives by promoting independence, joy and meaningful connections. At Liberty Health and Rehab, we are proud to support activity programs that ensure each resident feels valued and fulfilled. Together, we can create an environment where residents not only receive care but also experience vibrant, engaging lives.
About Us:
Liberty Health and Rehab is part of Liberty Health, a family-owned company that has provided continuum of care services across the Carolinas and beyond since 1875.
Liberty Commons of Columbus County Voted Best Assisted Living in 2024
Liberty Commons Nursing and Rehabilitation Center of Columbus County is honored to be voted Columbus County’s Best Assisted Living for the sixth year in row in The News Reporter Best of Columbus People’s Choice Awards.
This recognition six years in a row stands as a testament to Liberty Commons of Columbus County’s unwavering commitment to caring with excellence by providing personalized, high-quality care to each resident.
“On behalf of Liberty Commons of Columbus County, we extend our gratitude for being named the Best Assisted Living in Columbus County for the sixth year in a row. We are both honored and humbled, as we pride ourselves in providing quality care in a home-like environment for the community we serve.”
Liberty Commons of Columbus County is proud to be a trusted resource for the Columbus County community when it comes to providing a complete continuum of care, including assisted living, short-term rehabilitation, long-term care, skilled nursing care, hospice care, respite care, palliative care and outpatient therapy.
About Us:
Liberty Health and Rehab is a division of Liberty Health, a family-owned company that has provided continuum of care services across the Carolinas and beyond since 1875.
Capital Nursing and Rehabilitation Center Voted Raleigh’s Best Nursing Home for 2024
Capital Nursing and Rehabilitation Center is honored to be voted Raleigh’s Best Nursing Home for 2024 in The News & Observer’s Raleigh’s Best, marking the second year in row of being recognized with this distinction.
This accolade stands as a testament to Capital Nursing and Rehabilitation Center’s unwavering commitment to caring with excellence by providing personalized, high-quality care to each resident. Through exceptional standards of care, innovative practices and dedication to enhancing the quality of life of our residents, this recognition reflects the tireless efforts and dedication of the entire team at Capital Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.
“As we find ourselves in a new post-COVID-19 chapter, we are discovering broader horizons and changes in healthcare,” shared Administrator Brandon Wood. “One thing that we can always stand firm on is kindness. It envelopes compassion, humility, joy and empathy -- the things that we appreciate as basic human beings. Receiving this honor for the second year in a row shows that we try here at Capital to exude that on a daily basis and we are so grateful for the kindness the community has shown us with this acknowledgement.”
Capital Nursing and Rehabilitation Center is proud to be a trusted resource for the Raleigh community when it comes to providing a complete continuum of care, including short-term rehabilitation, long-term care, skilled nursing care, hospice care, respite care, palliative care and outpatient therapy.
About Us:
Liberty Health and Rehab is a division of Liberty Health, a family-owned company that has provided continuum of care services across the Carolinas and beyond since 1875.
Parkview Health and Rehabilitation Center Receives a Deficiency-Free State Survey
Liberty Healthcare and Rehabilitation Services is proud to announce Parkview Health and Rehabilitation Center in Chapel Hill, North Carolina received a Deficiency-Free State Survey from the North Carolina Division of Health Service Regulation (DHSR).
Receiving a Deficiency-Free State Survey following the state’s rigorous examination is an indicator of excellence and a distinction only a few communities are able to achieve. The amount of effort and dedication it takes to achieve deficiency-free status is tremendous and represents a testament to Liberty’s comprehensive approach to providing quality care for residents at Parkview Health and Rehabilitation Center.
The DHSR conducts these unannounced inspections to assess how well a skilled nursing community is complying with applicable laws and regulations meant to ensure residents receive quality care during their stay. The survey usually lasts several days.
The survey reviews the following areas:
- Resident rights
- The right to be free from abuse, neglect, and exploitation
- Admission, transfer and discharge rights
- Resident assessments
- Comprehensive resident-centered care plans
- Quality of life
- Quality of care
- Physician services
- Nursing services
- Behavioral health services
- Pharmacy services
- Laboratory, radiology, and other diagnostic services
- Dental services
- Food and nutrition services
- Specialized rehabilitative services
- Administration
- Quality assurance and performance improvement
- Infection control
- Physical environment
- Training requirements
- Emergency preparedness
Parkview Health and Rehabilitation Center met or exceeded all the rigorous standards the DHSR reviewed during their recent visit.
“Our staff members work diligently to assure residents receive the highest level of quality of care,” shared Administrator Sekeithia Jones. “Receiving a Deficiency-Free State Survey is a testament to their hard work and dedication.”
To learn more about our rehabilitation and skilled nursing services at Parkview Health and Rehabilitation Center, visit our website or call (984) 234-3600.
About Us:
Liberty Healthcare and Rehabilitation Services is a division of Liberty Health, a family-owned company that has provided continuum of care services across the Carolinas and beyond since 1875.
Mary Gran Nursing Center Voted Best Nursing Care Community in Sampson County
Mary Gran Nursing Center is honored to be voted Sampson County’s Best Nursing Care Community for 2024 in The Sampson Independent Readers’ Choice Awards. This is the fourth year in a row Mary Gran Nursing Center has received this distinction.
Skilled nursing and rehabilitation communities play a vital role in providing compassionate care and support for individuals in need of short and long-term care. This accolade stands as a testament to Mary Gran Nursing Center’s unwavering commitment to caring with excellence since the center opened in 1975. For nearly 50 years, Mary Gran Nurse Center has provided personalized, high-quality care to residents while ensuring their physical, emotional and psychological well-being.
Through exceptional standards of care, innovative practices and dedication to enhancing the quality of life of our residents, this recognition reflects the tireless efforts and dedication of the entire team at Mary Gran Nursing Center.
“We are incredibly honored to receive this award. Mary Gran Nursing Center prides itself in providing exceptional care,” said Administrator Marilynn Spell. “I would like to express a heartfelt thanks to everyone involved. We have a team of dedicated employees who are committed to delivering high quality care to the residents of our community. Thank you, Sampson County, for your continual support and entrusting us to provide skilled care and rehabilitation services to your loved ones.”
Mary Gran Nursing Center is proud to be a trusted resource for Sampson County when it comes to providing a complete continuum of care, including short-term rehabilitation, long-term care, skilled nursing care, hospice care, respite care, palliative care and outpatient therapy.
About Us
Liberty Healthcare and Rehabilitation Services is a division of Liberty Health, a family-owned company that has provided continuum of care services across the Carolinas and beyond since 1875.
Specialized Dementia Care Now Available in Columbus County
Columbus County residents who require skilled nursing care and have a dementia-related diagnosis now have a safe place to call home where they can thrive while being supported by expert care and a nurturing environment. Liberty Commons Nursing and Rehabilitation Center of Columbus County recently hosted a ribbon cutting with the Columbus County Chamber of Commerce to celebrate our newly renovated Memory Care Unit.
At Liberty Commons of Columbus County, we understand the unique challenges facing individuals with dementia. Our memory care services are designed to assist with daily living activities, social engagement and skilled nursing care for residents who can benefit from an environment that celebrates their abilities while addressing their challenges. Families can rest easy knowing their loved ones are in a safe, engaging and supportive setting.
Key Features of Our Memory Care Unit
1. Person-Centered Care
We prioritize person-centered care that enhances the well-being and quality of life for each resident. Our personalized care plans include:
- Assistance with daily living activities
- Daily meals
- Medication management
- 24-hour skilled nursing care and supervision
- Relaxation plans to promote healthy sleep
Family visits and participation play a crucial role in our care approach. We encourage family members to engage in activities and care plan meetings.
2. Safe Environment
Ensuring a safe environment is paramount. Our memory care unit features:
- Locked entrances, exits, and keypad entries so residents can move around safely
- Enclosed courtyards for safe outdoor activities
3. Comprehensive In-House Services
Our extensive range of in-house services ensures residents receive holistic care, including:
- Physical, occupational, and speech therapy
- Electrical and vital stimulation
- Diathermy
- Full-time physician coverage with physician-directed rehabilitation plans
- Wound care management
- IV therapy
- Fall interventions
- Incontinence management
- Geriatric psychiatry services
- Podiatry services
- Palliative Care
- Hospice care
At Liberty Commons of Columbus County, we are committed to providing exceptional dementia care that prioritizes the health, safety and happiness of our residents. For more information, visit our website or call us at (919) 642-4245.
About Us:
Liberty Healthcare and Rehabilitation Services is a division of Liberty Health, a family-owned company that has provided continuum of care services across the Carolinas and beyond since 1875.
Four Liberty Skilled Care Communities Earn 2024 AHCA/NCAL Bronze National Quality Award
Liberty Commons Nursing and Rehabilitation Center of Alamance County, Liberty Commons Nursing and Rehabilitation Center of Halifax County, Parkview Health and Rehabilitation Center and Westfield Rehabilitation and Health Center have been recognized as a 2024 recipient of the Bronze – Commitment to Quality Award by the American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) for their commitment to improving the lives of residents through quality care. This distinction is the first of three progressive award levels through the AHCA/NCAL National Quality Award Program. The program honors providers across the nation that have demonstrated their dedication to enhancing the quality of care for our nation’s elders and individuals with disabilities.
The AHCA/NCAL National Quality Award Program is a rigorous three-level process reviewed and evaluated by trained experts against a set of nationally recognized standards for organizational excellence. The standards of the Baldrige Performance Excellence Program help organizations achieve superior performance over time to improve the quality of life and care of long-term care residents.
Providers begin the quality improvement journey at the Bronze level, where they develop an organizational profile detailing among other elements their vision, mission, key customers, and key strengths and challenges. Bronze applicants must demonstrate the use of a performance improvement system. Trained examiners review each application to determine if a center has met the demands of the criteria. As a recipient of the Bronze - Commitment to Quality Award, the skilled care communities mentioned above may now move forward to the Silver - Achievement in Quality Award criteria.
“Receiving this award marks the beginning of an exciting journey towards excellence,” said Cathy Bergland, AHCA/NCAL National Quality Award Board Chair. “Congratulations to these skilled care communities for this significant achievement. I encourage you to take some time to celebrate and continue striving for higher levels of quality and performance.”
Liberty Commons Nursing and Rehabilitation Center of Alamance County, Liberty Commons Nursing and Rehabilitation Center of Halifax County, Parkview Health and Rehabilitation Center and Westfield Rehabilitation and Health Center join a growing list of Liberty Healthcare and Rehabilitation locations across North Carolina that have achieved this honor, showing their commitment to quality care.
Our Silver National Quality Award Recipients Now Include:
Capital Nursing and Rehabilitation in Raleigh, NC
Elizabethtown Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center in Elizabethtown, NC
Pisgah Manor at Pisgah Valley Retirement Community in Candler, NC
Shoreland Health Care and Retirement Center in Whiteville, NC
The Pavilion Health Center at Brightmore in Charlotte, NC
The Inn at Quail Haven in Pinehurst, NC
Our Bronze National Quality Award Recipients Now Include:
Bradley Creek Health Center at Carolina Bay in Wilmington, NC
Bermuda Commons Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Advance, NC
Golden Years Nursing Home in Falcon, NC
Liberty Commons Rehabilitation Center in Wilmington, NC
Liberty Commons Nursing and Rehabilitation Center of Alamance County in Burlington, NC
Liberty Commons Nursing and Rehabilitation Center of Columbus County in Whiteville, NC
Liberty Commons Nursing and Rehabilitation Center of Halifax County in Weldon, NC
Liberty Commons Nursing and Rehabilitation Center of Johnston County in Benson, NC
Louisburg Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center in Louisburg, NC
Parkview Health and Rehabilitation Center in Chapel Hill, NC
Royal Park of Matthews Rehabilitation and Health Center in Matthews, NC
Summerstone Health and Rehabilitation Center in Kernersville, NC
Three Rivers Health and Rehabilitation Center in Windsor, NC
The Foley Center at Chestnut Ridge in Blowing Rock, NC
Warren Hills Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Warrenton, NC
Westfield Rehabilitation and Health Center in Sanford, NC
Yadkin Nursing Center in Yadkinville, NC
About Us:
Liberty Healthcare and Rehabilitation Services is a division of Liberty Health, a family-owned company that has provided continuum of care services across the Carolinas and beyond since 1875.