January 26–30, 2026 is Activity Professionals Week, a time to recognize the individuals who bring joy, purpose, and connection to daily life in assisted living communities. Anyone who has lived or worked in assisted living – or has had a loved one there – knows how essential activities professionals are. At Valley Village Assisted Living, we are incredibly fortunate to have a dedicated and creative activities team.
Being an activity coordinator requires a special kind of person, and some are simply born for the role. Carrie Potter-Earle, our Activities & Volunteer Coordinator, is one of those people. She joined Valley Village more than four years ago after working as a Resident Assistant and previously gaining experience in activities, home health, and residential care. While she has always enjoyed caring for residents, Carrie has shared that the Activities Department is truly where she thrives.
Cheerful, hardworking, and creative, Carrie designs a robust monthly activities calendar filled with music performances, exercise options, social gatherings, games, and creative opportunities. On any given day, you might find her crafting with residents, going for walks, hosting get-togethers, leading games, or reading with residents. She often reminds everyone that “it’s not about the outcome of the activity, it’s about the experience,” and believes activities support residents physically, socially, creatively, cognitively, and spiritually.
Carrie is supported by Activities Assistant Doug Tweedy, whose steady presence and enthusiasm are greatly appreciated by residents. Doug leads weekly Bingo games and group discussions and plays an important role in helping with performances and special events. Together, Carrie and Doug create welcoming, engaging opportunities that help residents stay connected and involved.
Carrie also goes above and beyond through fundraising efforts that enhance residents’ experiences. You may have seen her at a Welcome Center bake sale or hosting the annual craft fair. Every dollar she raises goes directly toward special music performances, ice cream truck visits, wildlife rehabilitator programs, and other activities that truly brighten residents’ days.
It’s hard to overstate how important our activities team is to Valley Village. During Activity Professionals Week – and every day – we are grateful for the joy, creativity, and care Carrie and Doug bring to our community.