New LA-area Griswold Franchisee Aims to Bridge Cultures and Communities

Santa Clarita, CA – Griswold, one of the country’s top home care companies, providing professional, compassionate caregivers 24/7 across the United States, is excited to announce the opening of a new franchise in Santa Clarita, California. This new venture is led by Mara Gonzalez, a Filipino immigrant whose life experiences and professional journey embody Griswold’s spirit of compassion and community service.

Gonzalez brings to Griswold a rich background in finance and accounting, with substantial roles at notable nonprofit organizations such as the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank and Sunkist Growers. Her transition from a seasoned professional in the finance sector to a franchise owner with Griswold is fueled by personal experiences and a heartfelt commitment to caregiving — a value instilled in her by her mother’s career as a caregiver and her own experiences caring for her father in his final moments.

“When I started looking into the business of caregiving, I thought of my mom,” said Gonzalez. “She was a live-in caregiver until 2019 when she retired, working mostly in housekeeping. I also thought of my dad. I took care of my father in his last moments and was there by his side when he passed away. When I saw that his health was really going downhill, I knew I had to stay with him. How am I going to take care of my mom if she needs help in the future? The cost of care is getting really high.”

When Gonzalez heard about the Griswold franchise, she thought it could tick two boxes with one pen: She could be with her mom and make sure she is taken care of while also earning income at the same time. Better yet, she could make a significant impact in the L.A. area, a community that she has been a part of since her arrival in the U.S. 

“We want to help immigrants who have just arrived here, like I did 20 years ago,” said Gonzalez. “There is definitely a need for these services — it is a growing industry. I’m also hoping to find really great caregivers and help them on this career path. My mother was a live-in caregiver, and I saw how valuable of a job it is. I’ve been through this experience of helping aging parents. I know how hard it is. If our caregivers can help families, I know it means a lot.”

The Santa Clarita franchise will focus on delivering Griswold's comprehensive range of non-medical home care services, including companion care, homemaking, personal care and respite care. Plus, Gonzalez says she will make the wellbeing of caregivers a major priority moving forward. 

Griswold CEO Michael Slupecki expressed his enthusiasm for Gonzalez joining the Griswold family, stating, "Mara embodies the values and dedication that Griswold stands for. Her unique background, combined with her passion for making a difference in the community, makes her a perfect fit for our mission to provide compassionate care. Her leadership in Santa Clarita represents an important step in Griswold's ongoing expansion across California."

For more information about franchising with Griswold, please visit griswoldhomecare.com/franchising/investment-info/.

ABOUT GRISWOLD

With over 170 locations in 32 states, Griswold is one of the country’s top home care companies, providing professional, compassionate caregivers 24/7. Griswold’s “Live Assured” promise gives both clients and their loved ones peace of mind, so they can live without the weight of worry. Griswold helps adults maintain quality of life despite advanced age, onset of illness, or post-surgery recovery through services including companion care, home services, personal care, and respite care. Founded by the late Jean Griswold in 1982, the company has maintained its founder’s profound sense of empathy for older and disabled adults and those living with chronic conditions. In 2023, Griswold was ranked #267 on Entrepreneur's Franchise 500 and named a 2023 and 2024 Best of Home Care® Endorsed National Provider. For more information, visit www.griswoldcare.com or call 215.402.0200.