About Us

Thao, Co-Owner/Operator

Twelve years ago, I made the life-changing decision to move to Alaska, bringing with me a dream that had been close to my heart for years: to create a space where generations could connect, share, and thrive together.

Shortly after, my boyfriend—now husband—joined me, and together we began building a life rooted in purpose and community. In 2018, we welcomed our son, and with him, our vision became even clearer: a place where children and seniors could share moments of joy—cooking meals, gardening in the summer, listening to stories, and making music.

Northern Living Center is the realization of that dream. It’s more than an assisted living facility; it’s a community built on the values of connection, purpose, and care. Our goal has always been to create a home where every resident, staff member, and visitor feels valued, supported, and truly at home.

This vision is deeply personal, shaped by my upbringing in a traditional Vietnamese household. Growing up, multigenerational living wasn’t just a way of life—it was a cherished tradition.

Families cared for their elders at home, fostering a deep sense of connection, respect, and belonging. Moving to America, I saw how jobs and distances often separated families, making it harder to preserve these traditions. I wanted to bridge that gap, creating a space where others could experience the closeness and support I was raised with.

With a background in public health, I’ve developed a deep understanding of seniors’ unique needs and the transformative power of intergenerational interactions. I’ve seen how love, community, and purpose can enhance the lives of aging populations.

Northern Living Center embodies that mission, blending the warmth of family life with the support of a compassionate, dedicated team.

Every day, I’m inspired by the connections formed here—the shared laughter, the meaningful conversations, and the small moments that bring so much joy. Northern Living Center isn’t just my dream; it’s a place where others can find comfort, companionship, and a true sense of home.

Denise White, Administrator of Northern Living Center

Hello, my name is Denise White, and I am proud to serve as the administrator of Northern Living Center, a role I’ve cherished for over a decade. My journey into this field wasn’t a straight path but rather a story of finding where my heart truly belongs.

For much of my life, I was captivated by the medical field. As a stay-at-home mom, I immersed myself in every medical show I could find, dreaming of one day helping others navigate their health journeys. Once my youngest child started school, I knew it was time to pursue that dream.

In 2009, I earned my CMA degree at Charter College in Wasilla, Alaska, and began my career in medical clinics. I was eager to make a difference in the lives of patients battling daily illnesses.

But as time went on, I realized something was missing. While I loved the work, I craved deeper connections with those I cared for. The fleeting nature of clinic visits left me longing for the stability of building relationships with patients on a more personal level, particularly with older adults who often needed someone to truly lean on.

This realization led me to shift gears and enter the world of assisted living. My first position was with a facility for more independent seniors, and while I enjoyed the role, I still felt there was something more waiting for me. That’s when I found Northern Living Center—a place where I could combine compassionate care with the personal touch of family. Here, I discovered my true calling.

At Northern Living Center, I wear many hats. Whether I’m cooking a nutritious breakfast, assisting residents with daily tasks, providing clean, comfortable beds, ensuring they stay on track with their medications, or simply sitting by their side and listening to their life stories, I meet each resident’s unique needs with care and dedication. I strive to create a safe, loving environment where they feel valued and cherished every single day.

Fifteen years ago, I would have told you I dreamed of the fast-paced excitement of hospitals or clinics.

Today, I know my purpose lies in the quiet, steady rhythm of providing care to seniors, being family to those who need it most, and helping them face the joys and challenges of aging with dignity and grace.

I’ve held many hands as they transitioned from this life to the next, knowing they were safe, loved, and never alone. For me, this is not just a career—it’s the fulfillment of my life’s purpose.
I am deeply honored to be part of Northern Living Center and look forward to continuing to provide the love, compassion, and care that make this community a true home for so many.