Our Story
The Beginning of a Legacy
In 1990, Mercedes Gunderson was helping her own mother move. She quickly realized the move was not just about boxes and logistics. It was about emotions, memories, family dynamics, and the grief that can come with leaving a home full of memories.
Mercedes recognized something important in that moment: people deserve patience, compassion, and genuine reassurance when making such a monumental transition. That belief became the foundation of Gentle Transitions®.
A Gentle Transition
As we expanded into new territories and grew our teams across the country, the time came to unite all of our operating markets under one name, that could carry the same standard of care from coast to coast. We became WellRive.
To memorialize the moment, Greg Gunderson, Mercedes's son, quite literally handed over a baton. It was his way of saying: this company matters. Take care of it and carry its mission forward.
Carried Forward
WellRive is growing, and so is our commitment. More markets, more families, and the same belief that started around a kitchen table more than 35 years ago. The way people are supported through change shapes everything about what comes next. That has always been true and it always will be; it's always about the people.
Arrive Well, Live Well.®
One Dedicated Contact
One person who knows your name, your story, and why this move matters. They are with you from the very first call to the moment your new home feels like yours.
W-2 Employees
Every person who touches your move is a WellRive employee, trained, background checked, and accountable. We do not use contractors or temporary labor.
Local team, national support.
Behind our local teams sit the resources of a national organization, built over 35 years, including the ability to coordinate long-distance and cross-country moves anywhere in the country.
duty of care
We hold ourselves to a higher standard.
Six standards we have set for ourselves that guide everything we do, every day.
Dignity & Independence
Every client has the right to make their own decisions. We are here to support, guide, and do the heavy lifting, never to take over. Your voice leads every step of the process.
Honest Communication
We communicate openly about pricing, timelines, and expectations. No surprises, no hidden fees, no misleading promises. You will always know exactly where things stand.
Confidentiality & Privacy
What happens in your home stays between you and your team. We protect your personal, financial, and family information with the same care we bring to everything else we do.
Compassion & Empathy
We understand that this process is about more than logistics. Every item has a story. Every decision carries weight. We approach each moment with the patience and empathy it deserves.
Safety & Well-being
The physical and emotional safety of every client is our first priority. We stay current on best practices, work within our areas of expertise, and know when to refer clients to other professionals.
Accountability
We take responsibility for our work and our word. If something goes wrong, we address it. If we make a commitment, we keep it. Our clients and their families can count on that.
“I'm incredibly proud of our team of move managers who show up with humanity every single day.”
-Carlos Huereca
President and Chief People Officer of WellRive
