Hobart Living Center in Hobart, OK joined the Eden Registry on May 27, 2010. This home is in a small rural community in Oklahoma and they have grown to become the place to be. People in the larger community come in to eat lunch, children get dropped off at the home by the bus after school and when their pot bellied pig gets loose, everyone knows who to call to retrieve it. When this home first began their journey, they did all they could to learn about the Eden Alternative through books and education. The education about the Philosophy is going strong today as they cover it with potential new Elders and employees and they weave the Principles into every training experience they provide. Then they did a lot of talking using learning circles and that remains a powerful communication tool for them today. Then they started making changes. They have consistent relationships between the care partners and the Elders in the three neighborhoods within the home. Where the nursing station once stood, there is now a coffee shop and sitting area which is the hub of activity with the home now. Living room areas have been created for each neighborhood and the Elders can eat, socialize or have fun together there. The Elders really drive the daily schedule in the home and help create a sense of spontaneity in how the day is filled with meaning. One of their favorite things to do is buddy up with a care partner and have a scavenger hunt! This home does not just talk about culture change, they really make it happen. They want to take the Eden Alternative as far as they can and they know the key is to continue trying, even when faced with challenges and failures. We believe they will succeed!