Couple Brings Selfless Service to New Seniors Helping Seniors Franchise

Candi and Scott Mickiewicz are embarking on a new chapter in their lives, driven by a shared passion for service and a desire to make a meaningful difference in their community. 

As a 1st Sgt. (E-8) with 18 years of experience in the U.S. Army Reserve, Scott's dedication to serving others has always been a guiding force in his life — and a personification of the Army’s core value of Selfless Service. Now, he's transitioning from a career in corporate America to focus on giving back in a more direct and impactful way.

For Candi, the idea of franchising initially brought about some apprehension, given her role as a devoted mother caring for their four children. But upon learning about Seniors Helping Seniors, her reservations quickly turned into enthusiasm. Drawing from her experience working as a Certified Nursing Assistant, or CNA, during college, Candi felt a deep connection to the mission of Seniors Helping Seniors. She understands firsthand the importance of providing compassionate care and companionship to seniors, particularly those facing Alzheimer's and dementia.

"The business model not only provides a way to meet the needs of these seniors, allowing them to continue living independent lifestyles in their own homes, but it also is a way of providing companionship and friendship beyond just physical care," Candi explains. "Both physical and mental health are so important. The connections they make through Seniors Helping Seniors help them to live a fuller life."

With their combined experiences and heartfelt dedication, Candi and Scott are poised to make a significant impact as the first franchisees of Seniors Helping Seniors in Utah. Their journey into franchising is not just about building a business, it's about building meaningful connections, fostering independence, and enriching the lives of seniors in their community.

1851 Franchise had the opportunity to speak with Candi and Scott about their inspiring journey into franchising and their vision for the future, highlighting the transformative power of compassion and service in creating positive change.

FEATURE QUESTIONS

1851 Franchise: Frame your personal story for us. What did you do before franchising, and how did you decide franchising made sense for you?

Scott: I spent years in the software sales industry but eventually grew disillusioned with the corporate environment. Feeling like just another cog in the corporate machine, I became disheartened by the constant pressure to meet sales targets and the underlying fear of job insecurity. I always knew that anyone could be on the chopping block if they didn’t make their numbers. I wanted to feel more like a person than a number.

I also served in the military for 19 years, and I am a 1st Sgt. in the Army Reserve; I’m very passionate about serving others.

Driven by a desire to reclaim my sense of humanity and personal fulfillment, I sought a career path that would allow me to make a genuine difference in people's lives. This desire for authenticity and meaningful connection ultimately led me to pursue a new career path focused on service and compassion, culminating in my decision to become a franchisee with Seniors Helping Seniors in Utah.

Candi: I hold a bachelor's degree in exercise science and have a professional background in wellness and personal training. Despite spending the last 12 years dedicated to raising our four children, I have remained active in our community and have volunteered my time as a group fitness instructor for an all-women's church group. Now re-entering the workforce full time, I am bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience in promoting physical health and well-being.

We are both deeply motivated by our desire to serve others. When we discovered Seniors Helping Seniors, we were instantly drawn to the concept. Recognizing the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of seniors while fostering a sense of connection and companionship, we eagerly embraced the chance to become franchisees. With our combined skills, dedication and passion for helping others, we are eager to create a significant and lasting impact in our community through Seniors Helping Seniors.

1851: What was your perception of franchising prior to becoming a franchisee, and what do you want people to know about franchising now that you are in it?

Scott: Initially, we felt some apprehension about the idea of franchising. It's a big step and something that is way out of our comfort zone. Candi was primarily focused on caring for our family and we were very comfortable. We really just started looking out of curiosity, to see what was out there. Then we heard three words that changed our lives - Seniors Helping Seniors. 

We have been setting up our own business since January and were fully licensed and open for business starting in March, and it has been a lot of work. There have been a lot more steps than we realized, but the corporate office gives us so much support and guidance and that really helps. It has been a lot, but it feels great to build something ourselves. 

1851: What made you pick this brand? What excites you most about this company?

Candi: As we learned more about Seniors Helping Seniors and the business model, our apprehension to do something way out of our comfort zone, quickly turned into genuine enthusiasm. The mission statement, centered around providing compassionate care and companionship to seniors, deeply resonated with us. It was a perfect fit, aligning with our values and professional background and our mutual desire to make a positive impact in the community supporting seniors in living fulfilling and dignified lives.

Scott: Candi's experience as a CNA during college sparked a deep compassion for the elderly, especially those with Alzheimer’s and dementia. Her firsthand connections with seniors instilled a strong desire to improve their quality of life. With a soft spot for seniors, she's committed to providing dignity, respect, and support. Joining Seniors Helping Seniors aligns with her passion for serving the elderly, empowering her to make a meaningful impact in their lives through compassionate care and companionship.

At Seniors Helping Seniors, we're privileged to hire older, mature individuals with a giving spirit, fostering meaningful connections between caregivers and seniors. This mutual relationship enriches lives while allowing us to make a living by giving back in a truly meaningful way.

1851: What do you hope to achieve with your business? What are your plans for growth? 

Scott: We would like to build a financially successful business and provide a work environment that meets the needs of our caregivers, while providing for our own family too.

We want to be a trusted name in the community. When someone knows of a friend or family member that needs care, we want them to think of us. Our reputation will hopefully speak for itself.

Our territory is very big so we may look into growth in the future, but not immediately. We are the only owners in Utah so far, so it is a possibility to grow.

1851: What is the one thing about your story you want us to know?

Candi: Owning a franchise together is a rewarding opportunity for our family, offering flexibility to balance our kids' active lives. Unlike traditional jobs, franchising lets us be present for our children without rigid schedules. As a veteran, Scott is passionate about extending our services to Senior Veterans through the VA, honoring their sacrifice with respect and care. It's a cause close to our hearts, and we're eager to give back to those who served our country. With Seniors Helping Seniors, we're not just building a business, we're creating a legacy of service and support for our community's seniors and veterans.

Scott and I like that we are able to own a business together and it is a great opportunity for our whole family. Owning a franchise allows us to be more present for our own family. Our four kids have super-active lives, and franchising gives us the flexibility to be there for our kids when they need us. We can be involved in their lives without a regimented schedule which comes with a lot of other jobs. 

ABOUT SENIORS HELPING SENIORS:

Seniors Helping Seniors® franchise system was founded by husband-and-wife duo Kiran and Philip Yocom. Kiran, who grew up in India, later worked to advance humanitarian efforts alongside Mother Teresa. After Kiran moved to the U.S. in 1995 and married her husband Philip, the Yocoms felt called to provide loving care to seniors and to cultivate an exchange of gifts at every generational level. Together, the Yocoms founded Seniors Helping Seniors® in-home services in 1998, opening the brand up to franchising in 2006. With a mission to be the most respected and rewarding homecare provider in the U.S., Seniors Helping Seniors® locations stand apart from competitors as the only company that prioritizes hiring active seniors to provide care services to their less-active counterparts. Seniors Helping Seniors® service aligns caregivers and care recipients based on the abilities and needs of both by offering a wide range of care services. Seniors Helping Seniors® network has grown to 200-plus locations, 125 franchise partners in 30-plus states and international markets. For more information on Seniors Helping Seniors® in-home care, visit seniorshelpingseniors.com.