Acknowledging Small Businesses - Mallard Point Senior Living

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April 10, 2026

Acknowledging Small Businesses

Category: Culture & Traditions

Author: Ayron Appleby, Executive Director

At Mallard Point Senior Living, we love small businesses. And honestly, if we’re being real, most large businesses started out as a small business at some point. Even Arrow Senior Living, our management company, began as a small business called Turn-Around Solutions. The original vision was simple: step into a community for 6–12 months, get everything running smoothly, and then move on to the next. The rest of that story is for another time, but it’s a powerful reminder of how something small can grow into something incredible. So, when we say we LOVE small businesses, we truly mean it. Behind every small business is someone’s dream, someone’s risk, and someone’s hard work. That’s something we’re passionate about supporting.

Showing Up for Small Businesses

This Small Business Day, our teams hit the streets in a big way through Creative Follow-Ups and support. Each department head selected a local business to support. Collectively, as a company, we showed up for over 350 small businesses. Even saying that out loud feels incredible! What may seem like a small act can make a big impact.

Our teams didn’t just stop in. They intentionally supported each business by making a purchase or leaving a gift, writing a Google review, and sharing their experience on social media. It was a simple but meaningful way to give back to the communities that support us every day.

Supporting local businesses remains a personal priority because they strengthen communities and build meaningful connections. Small businesses help create a sense of belonging. This aligns with the close-knit environment within the community. It also helps residents experience purpose, connection, and a true sense of home.

Local Organizations Making an Impact

The team at Mallard Point highlighted several local organizations. AFIL, a nonprofit based in Cedar Falls, supports local veterans with housing, clothing, and food. Their work helps individuals regain independence and stability.

Five Star was also recognized for its commitment to honesty and transparency. Their long-term vision creates a strong foundation rooted in integrity and purpose. These organizations reflect the values that matter most within the community.

A man smiles with his equipment at Ultimate Entertainment, a local DJ and karaoke business.

The team consistently builds relationships with local businesses by supporting and engaging with them throughout the year. These efforts strengthen community connections and create meaningful partnerships.

Through these relationships, the team fosters a more connected and supportive environment. This enhances the overall resident experience and reinforces a strong sense of community.

Supporting small businesses isn’t just something we do one day a year. It’s part of how we show up in the greater community every day. These businesses are the heart of our neighborhoods. Building those relationships creates a deeper sense of connection for our residents, our teams, and the people we serve.

As you read through the highlights from our community, I hope you feel the same excitement and pride we do. When we support local, we’re not just making a purchase. We’re investing in people, in dreams, and in the place we call home.


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Proud to Serve Cedar Falls and Surrounding Areas 

Located in an area known by locals as “Cedar Valley,” Mallard Point Senior Living in Cedar Falls, IA, offers independent senior apartments and cottages with a variety of services and a range of floor plan options. In 2025, the community completed major renovations featuring refreshed common areas and exterior improvements, with many apartment homes also updated and additional enhancements continuing. Amenities include restaurant dining, a 24-hour bistro, concierge service, housekeeping, events and entertainment, transportation services, and more. Located near Mercy One Cedar Falls with convenient access to shopping, entertainment, and local attractions such as Golf Lab, The Mall at College Square, George Wythe State Park, The Lost Island Theme Park, John Deer Tractor & Engine Museum, Cedar Valley Arboretum & Botanic Gardens, and Hartmen Reserve Nature Center. 

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Mallard Point Senior Living serves and employs individuals of all faiths, regardless of race, color, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age or handicap, except as limited by state and federal law.

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