Chris Fleming's Journey at Brookridge
When Christopher Fleming first walked through the doors at Brookridge, he was just 15 years old. What began as a part-time job eventually turned into a career rooted in dedication and growth.
Now, 35 years later, Chris is the longest-serving member of the dining team, a familiar and trusted presence whose story reflects the heart of Brookridge and the larger ThriveMore community.
“People will say, how in the world could you make it this long?” he said in a recent conversation. “And I said, well, I'm a dinosaur… it's been a journey, of course.”
That journey has been defined by hard work, perseverance and a deep sense of pride. Over the years, Chris has seen generations of residents and team members come and go, each leaving an impression while shaping the community he continues to serve.
“I've seen a lot of people come, a lot of people go,” he said. “But I… I'm appreciative of everything I've been able to get here because nothing was given. I earned every bit of it.”
From his early days learning the ropes as a teenager to becoming a steady, experienced team member, Chris’s commitment has been constant. His perspective speaks to the value of longevity — not just measured in years, but in relationships built, lessons learned and contributions made day after day.
As Brookridge continues to evolve, Chris has witnessed firsthand the changes and growth that come with time. While the community adapts and looks toward the future, the foundation remains the same: people who care deeply about their work and about one another.
This year, as ThriveMore celebrates its 75th anniversary, Chris’s story is a reflection of what that legacy really means in practice. For decades, ThriveMore communities like Brookridge have been shaped by individuals who show up, who invest in their work and who make a lasting difference.
Chris is one of those individuals.
“What does tomorrow hold? I don't know,” he said. “But on to bigger and better things.”
For 75 years, ThriveMore has been built on stories just like Chris’. Stories of commitment, resilience and purpose. And as the organization continues to grow, it is those stories — and the people behind them — that will carry that legacy into the future.