Interview with Renee Franklin, owner
Q: How did you get involved in this business?
A: I’ve always worked with elderly people, even as a girl. I always knew this was my calling. I was working for another home care agency and I didn’t like how they were doing things, so I thought I would start my own company. I didn’t know what I was getting myself into, but it worked out for the best.
Q: What distinguishes you from other businesses in your category?
A: We try to follow our clients to the end and make sure that they have all of the resources that are available to them. If there’s something that we can’t provide, we try to match them with the other resources that are in the community. I try to guarantee continuity so that my clients don’t have multiple people in their homes when they’ve already bonded with someone. Also, I handle my clients and my staff based on my faith that I have in God because he leads and directs me on how to handle people. My own mother requires home care, so I really understand how important it is that people get the kind of care that they need to stay in their homes.
Q: What do you like best about your line of work?
A: We’re making a real difference in people’s daily lives as well as their last days. We come in and we’re helping them maintain their independence to keep them from having to go to a nursing home or care facility. It’s really special to be involved in each case and be there to meet the need. Even if I’m not the caregiver, I know all the families and I understand their needs.
Q: What is your business’ biggest challenge?
A: About 75 percent of my clients are reimbursed by the State of Colorado and their reimbursement is so low. So I’m not able to pay people what they deserve, yet I have to keep them up to current training and quality standards with very little money.
Q: Something people might be surprised to learn about you or your business:
A: My mom helped me start my business before I started taking care of her. She was there every step of the way. I’m also a licensed, ordained elder in my church and fifth-generation resident of Denver. My eldest client is 104 and my youngest is 22. People should know that home care is available for everybody who can qualify. It’s for everybody from all walks of life.
Profile
Business: Absolute Expert Care Inc.
Address: 14901 E. Hampden Ave., #220
Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday through Friday, and on call
Founded: 1996
Contact: 303-340-3390,
Employees: 40
