Adventure Takes Flight at The Ackerly at Reed’s Crossing

Sep 12, Alissa Sauer

The Ackerly at Reed’s Crossing is making sure older adults have the most fulfilling, rewarding, and productive opportunities possible. Residents and team members are encouraged to explore new possibilities, try new things, and share experiences that bring people together.  That philosophy was recently brought to life (and to the skies!) with a skydiving adventure that reminded everyone that joy and adventure have no age limit. 

Worth the Wait

The group had to reschedule three times while waiting for safe jump conditions, but on May 30, 2025, the wait paid off. The morning was cool, the sky stretched clear and blue, and excitement filled the air as the group drove to Skydive Oregon’s private airfield in Molalla.

Among the eight divers was resident John Sager, who has been checking items off his bucket list through Travel by Leisure Care. Four Ackerly staff members joined him: Autumn, our PrimeFit Wellness™ instructor; Jerrod, restaurant manager; Astrid, restaurant server; and Brenda, health and wellness nurse. Jerrod’s father and Brenda’s two adult children rounded out the team. Residents who stayed on the ground traveled with the group to cheer them on and share in the experience.

A Bucket List Dream

For John, this was his second bucket list item completed through Travel by Leisure Care. Last year, he took to the skies in a hot air balloon ride.

“I am so thrilled to be able to do things like this,” John said. “They are truly once-in-a-lifetime experiences that I will never forget. Although with this one, I could easily see myself doing it again!”

The jumpers returned to the ground with hearts still racing and smiles that lingered long after the parachutes were packed away. The excitement was infectious, and those who had cheered from below were quick to celebrate with them.

“They’re just crazy,” laughed Heidi Alexander, Ackerly resident, shaking her head.

Life at The Ackerly

The day reflected what life is like at The Ackerly at Reed’s Crossing. Through signature programs unique to Leisure Care communities, The Ackerly takes a whole-person approach to well-being, offering innovative ways for seniors to rediscover, reinvigorate, and even reinvent themselves.

PrimeFit Wellness™ helps residents build the strength and confidence to take on adventures, whether that means daily fitness classes or jumping from a plane. Travel by Leisure Care opens the door to once-in-a-lifetime experiences, making it possible for both residents and staff to cross items off their bucket lists while building meaningful connections.

The Ackerly is proud to support both residents and staff in experiences like this one, and we look forward to making skydiving an annual tradition. Because here, older adults know their best days aren’t behind them; they’re right here.

Discover the Possibilities

At The Ackerly at Reed’s Crossing, every day is an opportunity to connect, grow, and try something new. Schedule your tour today and see how we’re helping residents live with confidence, purpose, and joy.