For January Fitzgerald, Director of Activities at Indigo Carolina Forest, senior living isn’t just a career, it’s a calling. Her journey began in a deeply personal way, caring for her mother Dorothy, who lived with vascular dementia.

“Those five years profoundly changed my heart, life, and perspective,” January recalls. “It gave me an appreciation for the needs of seniors, and I realized I didn’t want to step away from making a difference in the lives of those who needed it.”

That decision set her on a new path, blending her passion for dance and entertainment with her newfound mission of service.

Before leading balance classes and planning themed socials, January was performing on the biggest stage in football. As a former Carolina Panthers cheerleader, she proudly represented the team with professionalism and energy, culminating in a performance at Super Bowl XXXVIII in Houston, Texas.

“Being an NFL cheerleader required discipline, resilience, and countless hours of training,” January explains. “But beyond the performances, it was about representing the Panthers with pride and being part of a sisterhood of driven, talented women.”

Today, that same energy fuels her role at Indigo Carolina Forest.

“I’ve always loved bringing joy to others. Now I get to do that in a way that has a lasting impact. It’s difficult to even consider this a job. It’s a passion.”

Spend a day with January and you’ll quickly see that passion. You’ll also understand why she’s affectionately called Indigo’s “biggest cheerleader.” From morning until evening, she’s on the move leading activities, encouraging participation, and ensuring residents and team members feel valued.

Her work includes everything from themed socials and wellness programs to managing volunteers, coordinating with families, and even running the community’s social media. But for January, the joy comes in the in-between moments like an improv dance party in the hallway, a quick one-liner joke, or a walkie-talkie karaoke session with the clinical team.

“What matters most is creating moments of connection that residents and families carry with them long after the activity ends,” she says.

Creating Memories That Last

One of January’s most meaningful memories involves a resident who adored Elvis and teddy bears. As the resident moved into hospice care, January arranged a private performance of Teddy Bear with an Elvis tribute artist, complete with a surprise stuffed bear.

“She said, ‘This is the nicest thing anyone has ever done for me,’” January remembers.

The family later donated the bear to the community, passing it on to the resident’s closest friend.

“Two tiny gestures became deeply impactful moments,” she says. “God squeezes our hearts, and tears flow. I am so grateful to be able to give back in this way.”

And giving her everything to residents takes into account January’s philosophy on programming: balance.

“Fresh activities come from listening to residents and families and making sure there’s something for every personality,” she explains.

Her weekly balance class is one example. Drawing from her ballet training, January adapts movements to focus on core strength, posture, and mobility. She believes activities like this is about helping residents move with more confidence and stability while keeping it fun.

“It’s a win for everyone.”

She also values intergenerational connection by bringing in young people. They seem to turn any activity into a positive engagement for residents. January says the room’s energy shifts when children are involved, and the feeling is contagious. And for families following Indigo online, January captures those moments with care.

“The bricks and sticks are beautiful here, but it’s the people inside that make Indigo so special. I want families to see the joy in action. It’s not just a calendar.”

The Face of Fun

Indigo Carolina Forest's Executive Director, Randy Hudson, says, “January epitomizes what you would want in a Director of Activities. She is compassionate, genuine, energetic, fun, creative, and most importantly, empathetic. The residents light up when she walks into the room. She truly is the face of fun.”

But her influence extends far beyond scheduled activities.

“She’s the first to volunteer to help a resident, a family member, or a teammate. She gives spiritual guidance, offers a listening ear, and always provides a positive pick-me-up. In an industry where we’re often bombarded with criticism, her consistent positivity makes all the difference,” Hudson said.

Her colleagues would also say she’s the queen of surprises, always ready to spark karaoke, sneak up for a playful scare, or break into dance to make someone laugh.

With football season underway, Indigo celebrates “Team Tuesdays,” when residents proudly wear their favorite team’s gear. For many, it’s a fun nod to sports. For January, it’s also a way to connect her past with her present.

Some residents know about her NFL days, and one couple even created a shadowbox displaying her Panthers uniform and memorabilia. “It was such a thoughtful gesture,” January says.  “And it’s fun to share that side of my life with residents who also love football.”

Her past as an NFL cheerleader, combined with her heart for seniors, makes January uniquely suited for her role.

“I get to cheer people on in a whole new way now,” she smiles. “And honestly, that’s the best kind of cheering there is.”

She is a spark of energy, a source of comfort, and truly Indigo Carolina Forest’s loudest cheerleader.