Dara’s story shows how a career in fitness can lead to steady pay, benefits and professional growth in senior living.
If you’re a personal trainer, group instructor or wellness coach, you know the joy of helping others stay strong and healthy. But maybe you’re ready for something more – steadier pay, real growth and work that truly matters.
That’s exactly what Dara O’Bannon found at Atria. She started with a fitness background and found a career in senior living that builds on her experience helping older adults stay active and engaged.
Your career questions? Dara’s story has answers.
Can fitness experience really count in senior living?
Yes. Before Atria, Dara worked for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and at an adaptive gym, specializing in corrective and rehabilitative fitness for people with neurological conditions like multiple sclerosis (MS) and Parkinson’s.
“The common denominator with these diseases is that you’re working with an older population, so I had essentially already been in senior fitness,” Dara says.
That hands-on experience became the perfect foundation for Dara’s career at Atria. Your ability to motivate, teach and connect with others is exactly what makes you valuable here.
Is there room to grow?
Definitely. Dara joined Atria as an Engage Life Program Instructor. “Within six months, I was promoted to Engage Life Director,” she says.
Dara’s story shows how quickly Atria rewards talent and gives people room to do work they love.
What’s the culture really like?
For Dara, Atria Grapevine has always felt like home. Her grandmother lived in the community for 13 years, and now Dara says the people – residents and coworkers alike – are the best part of her job. “That’s my favorite part: living history.”
Will the work be fulfilling?
Absolutely. Dara lights up when she talks about residents who discover new passions – like a woman who never knew she was an artist until she picked up a paintbrush at a community art activity, or a 96-year-old who tried sushi for the first time.
“Those moments feed my soul,” Dara says. “I feel like I’m serving my purpose.”
What this means for your job search
Thinking about where your fitness or wellness career can take you? Dara’s story shows the possibilities.
- Do I need senior living experience?
No – your people skills, coaching and wellness background are already valuable here.
- Can I grow my career?
Yes – Dara’s quick promotion is one of many examples of Atria’s commitment to internal growth.
- Will I find purpose at work?
Absolutely – at Atria, your work directly helps older adults stay active, engaged and fulfilled.
- What about pay and benefits?
Atria offers both part-time and full-time roles with competitive pay, strong benefits and advancement opportunities. Learn more about our rewards and recognition programs and how we support team members at every stage of their career.
Value beyond the paycheck
At Atria, you’ll find:
- Advancement opportunities – we promote from within.
- Recognition of your background – your fitness, wellness or service experience is a strong foundation here.
- A mission-driven culture – every day you’ll make a real difference in the lives of older adults.
- Competitive pay and benefits for both part-time and full-time team members.
Ready to take the next step?
If you’re ready to grow outside of the gym, senior living offers something the fitness world often can’t: stability, growth and steady demand as the senior population continues to rise.
Dara did it – and so can you. Use your fitness experience to build a career with steady pay, growth and purpose.