Flat Rock – In the world of healthcare, where compassion meets professionalism, Four Seasons has emerged as a beacon of excellence. “We are incredibly grateful for the tremendous team members who comprise Four Seasons,” says Dr. Millicent Burke-Sinclair, the organization’s President & CEO. Her words resonate deeply within the walls of this nonprofit, which has been recognized as one of the 2025 Best Places to Work in Healthcare by Modern Healthcare for the third consecutive year. This accolade is not merely a trophy on the shelf; it’s a testament to the unwavering commitment of every individual who walks through the doors of Four Seasons.
Building a Culture of Care
Four Seasons, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing a spectrum of care services—including Home Care, Palliative Care, and Grief Services—has cultivated a workplace culture that prioritizes employee well-being. “Our Mission, Vision, and Values are a big part of our culture at Four Seasons,” explains Leisl Vale, Marketing Specialist. These guiding principles inform decisions around employee support and benefits, ensuring that staff feel valued and empowered.
The organization has rolled out several initiatives over the years to enhance workplace culture. In 2021, they introduced a free tele-counseling benefit for employees and their households, recognizing the importance of mental health. The following year, they eliminated health insurance premiums for employees, effectively putting $1,500 back into their pockets annually. In 2023, they launched the Well-Care Reimbursement program, allowing employees to request up to $600 per year for self-care services or products. And in 2024, they increased their retirement plan’s employer match while reducing copays for primary care and mental health visits.
These initiatives are not just numbers on a page; they reflect a deep understanding of the needs of their staff. “Every year, we look for ways to enhance those benefits & support,” Vale emphasizes, showcasing a commitment to continuous improvement.
Listening and Evolving
Feedback is the lifeblood of Four Seasons’ approach to care and workplace improvements. Employees are encouraged to share their thoughts through various channels—monthly one-on-one meetings with leaders, larger employee forums, quarterly Q&A sessions with the CEO, and biannual Listening Collaboratives. This open dialogue fosters an environment where staff feel heard and valued.
Vale notes that the organization has a formal “Thank You For Inspiring” program that acknowledges how employee feedback has led to positive changes. This cycle of listening and acting not only enhances workplace culture but also strengthens the quality of care provided to the community.
The impact of being recognized as a Best Place to Work extends beyond accolades; it plays a crucial role in recruitment and retention efforts. “Our amazing people are what make us a Best Place to Work,” Vale asserts. The recognition helps attract top talent in healthcare, ensuring that Four Seasons remains staffed with dedicated professionals who embody the organization’s values.
Embracing the Future
As Four Seasons looks ahead, they remain committed to enhancing their benefits package and reviewing compensation annually. “We are dedicated to caring for those staff through enhancing our benefits package year over year,” Vale states. This proactive approach not only supports current employees but also sends a clear message to potential hires: Four Seasons is a place where you can thrive both personally and professionally.
For those considering a career with Four Seasons, Vale encourages them to explore the variety of clinical and nonclinical positions available across their 14-county service region. “When you do, you’re truly among the best of the best teammates,” she assures.
In a landscape where healthcare organizations often struggle with employee satisfaction and retention, Four Seasons stands out as a model of what can be achieved when care is prioritized—not just for patients but for those who provide that care. As Dr. Burke-Sinclair aptly puts it, “Everyday, we are committed to positively impacting lives.”
With its roots firmly planted in Western North Carolina, Four Seasons continues to redefine what it means to be a great place to work in healthcare—one compassionate act at a time.