Love All, Serve All
Catherine Korman’s journey into caring for the elderly began when she was a teenager; “My love of caregiving came from my grandparents as they inspired me early on. I knew 20 years ago that the need for assisted living homes for the elderly in our state was dire. I seized the opportunity to own my own homes,” Catherine shares about the birth of her dream.
Tranquility Manor LLC operates the two largest privately owned assisted living homes in the state, each with 17 beds. These homes, Harbor View Manor and Tranquility Manor Estates, are both situated in the Mat-Su Valley. Tranquility Manor Estates ALH is located on the outskirts of downtown Palmer, while Harbor View Manor ALH is just a 10-minute drive from the city of Wasilla. In total, over 40 staff members are employed to provide comprehensive services at both locations. The homes are conveniently located near stores, parks, and other amenities for the elderly and are easily accessible with the help of Mat-Su Senior Services.
“We are the longest-running assisted living homes in the state. We provide services from simple assistance to end-of-life care including hospice,” states Catherine proudly about her homes. “We offer a homey family atmosphere with one-on-one interaction with residents by providing activities 7 days a week and a full-time Activities Director on staff,” adds Catherine cheerfully.
Catherine has been a long-time client of the Alaska SBDC. In 2007, Catherine and her former partner worked with the Mat-Su SBDC to secure the commercial financing they needed to buy their second home. Fast forward to 2024, a significant milestone was the buyout of her former business partner to become a woman-owned business. Catherine once again approached the SBDC and met with the Mat-Su SBDC Center Director Misty O’Connor to do a business valuation, financial projections, and to develop a business plan, which were paramount in preparing her to meet with her lender to acquire the loan she needs.
“When I walked into the Mat-Su SBDC Center this past Fall, this time I was alone, completely overwhelmed, and had no idea what I was doing. I was seeking advice on how to procure a business bank loan. Misty put me at ease from the moment I met her. She is kind, compassionate, and always right there when I’ve needed advice, a resource, a name, a link… I’ve been totally blown away by her business savvy and professionalism. I truly feel blessed that I found her,” Catherine shares.
Through the Alaska SBDC’s professional referral list and Misty’s suggestion, Catherine began working with an independent business consultant to restructure and modernize Tranquility Manor LLC. Plans include implementing digital systems to streamline staffing processes, offering outside training, and developing mentorship programs. Her primary goal is to enhance resident activities and host community events for the elderly.
Today, Tranquility Manor LLC stands out not only for its size and longevity but also for its dedication to enhancing the daily lives of its residents. Catherine Korman exemplifies the transformative impact of combining passion with the right support, embodying the essence of what the Alaska SBDC strives to achieve.
Tranquility Manor LLC Assisted Living Homes is located at 634 S Bailey St #200 in Palmer. Connect with them via email, call 907-746-4255, or visit www.tranquilitymanorllc.com and Facebook page.
