Homewatch CareGivers

For husband-and-wife team Joanne and Michael Fenner, franchise ownership was more than a business decision; it was a shared leap rooted in personal experience, trust, and a desire to build something meaningful together. Ready to leave the retail world, Joanne sought work with greater impact. Both she and Michael have firsthand experience caring for loved ones and understand the impact proper care can have.&nbsp;Today, the Fenners are preparing to open their first Homewatch CareGivers location in Hilton Head, South Carolina. Their story is a testament to partnership - one built through honest conversations, complementary strengths, and a willingness to support each other in a whole new venture while making a difference in their community.<h2>From Retail Burnout to Business Ownership</h2>The idea was conceived when Joanne reached a breaking point in her retail career. Seeking greater control over the impact of her work, she and Michael began to seriously explore the idea of owning a business together. Soon, Michael began researching franchising online and eventually connected with a franchise broker. Following validation calls, the couple narrowed their focus to&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/homewatch-caregivers/info">Homewatch CareGivers</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.authoritybrands.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=husband-wife-franchise-owners-2731723" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Authority Brands’</a> in-home care franchise.For Joanne, leaving retail was the beginning of a meaningful shift.“It gave me a new perspective,” she said. “I want to help other people. That’s what helps me.”<h2>A Shared History in Caregiving</h2>Caregiving was already familiar territory for the Fenners.Joanne had cared for her father and grandparents while living in California. Michael also watched his mother spend years caring for his grandparents, often at the expense of his mother’s career.“It was hard. Helping them bathe, get to the bathroom — all the things you never expect to do,” Michael said. “That’s why this stood out to me: so other families don’t have to go through what my mom did and give up their careers.”As his grandparents’ health declined due to ALS and Parkinson’s, Michael saw how overwhelming caregiving could be without adequate support. It’s an experience that has stayed with him as the couple began to more seriously explore franchise options.<h2>Why Homewatch CareGivers Stood Out</h2>Consistency has long been a hallmark of franchising. As the Fenners evaluated different industries and concepts, what ultimately set&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/homewatch-caregivers">Homewatch CareGivers</a> apart for them was consistency: in leadership, franchisee feedback, and long-term reputation.“With Homewatch, it was all good,” Michael said. “All of the franchisees we spoke to said the franchise was supportive and doing its best to help them.”The strength of a properly supported system also resonated. Over the course of more than four decades,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/homewatch-caregivers/info">Homewatch CareGivers</a> has continually refined its model, providing the structure and credibility local franchise owners need to succeed. For first-time franchisees entering a people-first industry, both were essential.For Joanne, delivering care sealed the deal.“Helping older people,” she said. “I like giving back.”<h2>Building a Business as a Husband and Wife Team</h2>Joanne leads daily operations, while Michael plays a key role behind the scenes, helping with strategy, systems, and problem-solving as they build their foundation.It’s a dynamic Michael sees as a distinct advantage.“We toss ideas back and forth,” he said. “If she needs help with something, I can try to help. We cover each other's meetings depending on who’s busy. It just works well.”<h2>Partners in Life (and in Business)</h2>Starting a new business requires a leap of faith. And it’s important to have someone you can trust on board. Michael and Joanne play that role for each other. But the concept of trust has also become increasingly important as the Fenners prepare to hire their first employee.&nbsp;“At the end of the day, we know we have each other’s backs,” Michael said. “If she needs help at the office, I’ll be there.”Looking ahead, the Fenners plan to expand their Homewatch CareGivers operation across South Carolina and Georgia in the coming years. But for now, the focus is on the March grand opening while they begin their next chapter together in both business and life.As Michael put it simply, the business may be Joanne’s “baby.” But it’s one they’re raising side by side, a partnership grounded in shared purpose and a commitment that the couple can experience together.About Homewatch CareGivers&nbsp;Founded in 1980, Homewatch CareGivers is one of the most experienced networks of providers of full-service home care for people of all ages. Caregivers are triple-screened and continually trained and supervised to provide reliable, compassionate, and highly skilled services in companion, personal, and comprehensive care. Home care services are personalized for each client, and customized care plans are administered through a network of 234 locations. Each location is independently owned and operated by a franchisee. Services may vary by location. Certain locations solely provide nonmedical care services. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.homewatchcaregivers-us.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=husband-wife-franchise-owners-2731723" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.homewatchcaregivers-us.com</a> and&nbsp;<a href="http://www.authoritybrands.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=husband-wife-franchise-owners-2731723" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.authoritybrands.com</a>.

Photo of Homewatch CareGivers franchise owners Michael and Joanne Fenner

Husband and Wife Franchise Owners Build a Caregiving Business Together with Homewatch CareGivers

1851 Franchise

Michael and Joanne Fenner turned their frustration into a shared passion for helping others, launching a Homewatch CareGivers franchise with plans to grow across Georgia and South Carolina.

This brand page has been paid for by HOMEWATCH CAREGIVERS. Content within this page that is paid will showcase a Sponsored icon. This means the brand has engaged 1851 FRANCHISE to write the content. Content without the Sponsored Icon is aggregated media placements the brand earned. Questions can be sent to editorial@1851franchise.com

Why This Husband and Wife Team Left Retail to Build a Homewatch CareGivers Franchise

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<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-argos">Nick Argos</a> didn’t begin his career in health care, but the path that led him to franchising with&nbsp;<a href="https://homewatchfranchise.com/">Homewatch CareGivers</a> was deeply personal.“I started my career in finance. My first real professional career was as a financial advisor on Wall Street,” Argos said. “After that, I got into the automotive industry and held just about every title … eventually, I went on to be a finance director for a dealer group.”While he found success in both industries, something was missing. As he and his family began planning for the future, Argos knew he wanted more than just professional success.“What really started me down this path was managing my grandmother’s care,” he said. “Navigating having caregivers with her seven days a week. I could see that it was a pretty broken process. I figured I could do this and could do it better.”<h2>Choosing a Franchise Built for Impact&nbsp;</h2>After exploring multiple opportunities, Argos was drawn to the home care space for both its emotional and financial alignment.“From a business perspective, I didn’t want to just buy any business,” he said. “I wanted it to be something that was resistant to inflation, markets or recession. Senior care really checked off all the boxes and was something I found a lot of fulfillment in.”Among the options he evaluated,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/homewatch-caregivers/info">Homewatch CareGivers</a> stood out immediately. “I was really sold on Homewatch CareGivers from the start,” Argos said. “I loved the fact that there was tech at the forefront and a real mission about innovation and trying to be two steps ahead of everybody else. I also loved the company's history.”<a href="https://1851franchise.com/homewatch-caregivers/homewatch-caregivers-rewiring-in-home-care-45-years-2730797">With more than 45 years in the industry and a modern, tech-enabled care model</a>, the brand offered Argos a way to build a scalable business while making a meaningful impact in his community.<h2>Rapid Growth and Early Momentum</h2>Since signing on in 2024, Argos has wasted no time building a high-performing operation with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.homewatchcaregivers.com/glendora/">Homewatch CareGivers of Glendora, California</a>.“It's been going really well since opening,” he said. “We have an incredible team built. Within our age range as a franchisee, we are probably leading the pack in revenue. Things have been incredible. We are past the projections we had made when we first started.”That early success is a reflection of both strong market demand and&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/homewatch-caregivers/homewatch-caregivers-conference-reno-2732016#featured">the support system built into the franchise model</a>. Argos says that support is one of the main reasons he bought into the franchise. “You also have hundreds of mentors in other franchisees,” he said. “It’s an incredible network where everyone is happy to share what they’ve learned and help each other grow.”He also recognizes the&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/homewatch-caregivers/homewatch-caregivers-reaches-300-caregiver-locations-2731813#featured">macro tailwinds driving the industry forward</a>. “The senior population is aging. Home care will always be needed,” he said. “This is not a business that is going to slow down anytime soon.”<h2>Earning Rookie of the Year and Rising Star Honors</h2>Argos’ performance certainly hasn’t gone unnoticed. In his first full year, he earned both the Rising Star Award and Rookie of the Year honors within the Homewatch CareGivers system.“The Rising Star Award was a bit of a shock,” he said. “That was for outstanding excellence and following brand standards. But I really have to thank the other franchisees. I feel like I got so much value from the veterans in the business. I’ve learned so much from so many people.”The Rookie of the Year award, however, underscores just how quickly his business has scaled.&nbsp;“It was for being the fastest-growing location throughout the course of the year in 2025 — highest revenue growth, highest client acquisition,” Argos said. “That felt really incredible. We try really hard to constantly improve our processes and the quality of care that we deliver. We are always trying to learn and always trying to be better. We compare ourselves to ourselves, so it felt great to be recognized for the hard work.”<h2>Building a Culture of Compassion and Excellence</h2>While growth metrics are important, Argos is equally focused on building a strong internal culture. “We look for compassion in people. Everything else can be taught,” he said.That philosophy was reflected in another major recognition: his team earned the Caregiver of the Region award.“That is by far the most exciting award for me,” Argos said. “We nominated one of my caregivers, who is now our care supervisor. It is really a testament to the incredible job that our staff does.”By prioritizing people first, Argos is creating a foundation that supports both client outcomes and long-term business growth.<h2>Looking Ahead: Scaling the Business and Expanding Care</h2>With a strong foundation in place, Argos is already focused on the next phase of growth. “I really wanted to make sure that I was building a business and an asset, not just buying myself a job,” he said. “That has come to fruition. I love this business more and more every day. We have a lot of plans for growth.”He’s also investing in infrastructure to support continued expansion. “By the end of this year, we are looking to add a full-time business development role,” Argos said. “We have a great staff and our goal is to continue to grow and continue to put the right people in the right seats.”<a href="https://1851franchise.com/homewatch-caregivers/homewatch-caregivers-franchise-top-reasons-2730798">For those considering franchising</a>, especially in home care, Argos’ journey offers a clear takeaway: success comes from combining purpose with discipline and staying committed to constant improvement.For more information on franchising with Homewatch CareGivers, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/homewatch-caregivers">https://1851franchise.com/homewatch-caregivers.</a>

By leveraging the systems, support and innovation of Homewatch CareGivers, Nick Argos has quickly transformed a personal experience into a thriving, scalable business.

How Homewatch CareGivers’ Rising Star and Rookie of the Year Went From Wall Street to Wellness

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Homewatch CareGivers Franchise - Bo Donohoo - 1851 Franchise

Army Veteran Bo Donohoo Turns Lifelong Commitment to Service Into Homewatch CareGivers Franchise

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Photo of Homewatch CareGivers franchisee Courtney Harper

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Military veterans often bring the exact qualities franchise systems look for in business owners: discipline, leadership, accountability and the ability to perform under pressure. In the senior care industry, those traits can translate especially well because the business is fundamentally built around service, structure and trust.That alignment is one reason&nbsp;<a href="https://homewatchfranchise.com/">Homewatch CareGivers</a> has continued to attract a growing number of veteran franchise owners over the last several years. The in-home care franchise has leaned heavily into veteran recruitment through its participation in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.franchise.org/franchising-for-veterans/">International Franchise Association’s VetFran program</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://homewatchfranchise.com/discount-opportunities/">offering a 30% discount on the initial franchise fee</a> for qualified veterans.<a href="https://1851franchise.com/homewatch-caregivers/info">Homewatch CareGivers</a> has seen veteran ownership grow steadily over the past two years. The brand added 31 veterans to the system in 2024 and 42 more in 2025. Eight more have joined so far in 2026, bringing the total to 81 veteran additions in just over two years.<h2>A Mission-Driven Business That Resonates With Veterans</h2>For many veterans transitioning into civilian careers, franchising offers a balance between entrepreneurship and operational structure. Homewatch CareGivers’ model provides both while also creating an opportunity to continue serving others in a meaningful way.The company highlights several areas where military experience aligns naturally with the business, including discipline, service-focused leadership and follow-through.“Veterans already understand what it means to lead with accountability and operate with purpose,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jwilsoncfe/">Jordan Wilson</a>, chief development officer for parent company&nbsp;<a href="https://www.authoritybrands.com/">Authority Brands</a>. “Homewatch CareGivers gives them the chance to build something meaningful in their local communities while stepping into a business model that values structure, teamwork and service.”Home care also offers a different kind of business opportunity. Rather than depending on retail foot traffic or short-term consumer trends, the category continues to grow as more families look for ways to help loved ones remain safely at home.<h2>Financial Incentives Help Lower the Barrier to Entry</h2>Homewatch CareGivers’ veteran incentives are designed to reduce the upfront financial burden for military franchisees.Through its VetFran participation, Homewatch CareGivers offers financial incentives for qualified veteran franchisees. The company also notes that veterans may gain access to additional financing and lending opportunities through third-party partners.The incentives extend beyond simple cost savings. Homewatch CareGivers positions the business as a way for veterans to continue supporting fellow veterans and their families through respite care and in-home support services.“A lot of veterans want the next chapter of their careers to feel purposeful,” Wilson said. “Homewatch CareGivers gives them a way to keep leading, keep serving and build a business with the training and support behind them.”<h2>National Recognition for Veteran Support</h2>Homewatch CareGivers’ veteran recruitment efforts have also earned outside recognition. The company ranked No. 62 on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/franchises/directory/top-franchise-veterans-ranking">Entrepreneur’s 2025 Top Franchises for Veterans</a> list, which evaluates franchise systems based on veteran incentives, franchisee support and overall company performance.Veteran incentives have become increasingly common across franchising, but Homewatch CareGivers has continued to add veteran franchise owners at a steady pace over the last several years.Homewatch CareGivers’ recent veteran franchisee growth suggests the model is resonating with former service members looking for a business centered on community impact and operational consistency.“Veterans understand leadership, they know how to build teams and they care deeply about serving people well,” Wilson said. “Those qualities translate directly into the culture we want franchisees to create inside their businesses.”For more information on franchising with Homewatch CareGivers, visit:&nbsp;<a href="https://homewatchfranchise.com/">https://homewatchfranchise.com/</a>.

Why Veterans Are Choosing the Homewatch CareGivers Franchise -  1851 Franchise

With veteran franchisee growth accelerating over the last two years, Homewatch CareGivers is attracting former service members through mission-driven work and VetFran incentives.

Why Homewatch CareGivers Is a Good Opportunity for Military Veterans

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As&nbsp;<a href="https://homewatchfranchise.com/">Homewatch CareGivers</a> celebrates hitting the 300-location mark, franchise owners and brand leaders recently gathered in Reno, NV for the company’s 2026 Annual Conference. The multi-day event focused on collaboration, knowledge sharing, and preparing the network for the next phase of growth.With packed sessions, strategic discussions, and networking opportunities, the conference highlighted the strength of a connected system working together to improve operations and expand impact in communities nationwide.“What an incredible few days in Reno,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jwilsoncfe/">Jordan Wilson</a>, Chief Development Officer of Authority Brands. “The level of engagement, alignment, and commitment to our growth was evident at every turn. Beyond the packed sessions, it was the meaningful conversations and ideas exchanged across the conference that truly set this experience apart.”<h2>A Network Focused on Growth and Collaboration</h2>Franchise owners and corporate leaders explored what it means to “Go Big” in the years ahead, from expanding services and strengthening leadership to improving operational execution.One of the recurring themes of the conference was the power of a connected network. Owners were encouraged to continue sharing ideas, successes, and challenges through the brand’s Collective IQ platform, which allows franchisees to collaborate and crowdsource solutions in real time.“We talked about Going Big in growth, in leadership, in execution, and in impact,” Wilson said. “And what stood out most wasn’t just the strategy. It was the franchisees. The engagement, the willingness to share ideas, challenge thinking and push each other forward, makes this network special.”<h2>Breakout Sessions Deliver Practical Strategies</h2>A major focus of the conference was providing franchise owners with practical insights they can immediately apply in their businesses. Breakout sessions covered key operational and workforce topics, helping owners refine strategies for growth and long-term sustainability.One session explored why outreach efforts can sometimes feel unpredictable and how owners can manage those efforts more effectively using the brand’s Blueprint for Success framework. By focusing on leading indicators such as relationship development, follow-up patterns and consistent field activity, owners can better measure progress before referrals begin to scale.Another session addressed the evolving employment landscape, with legal expert Joshua Vaughn of Littler providing an overview of new federal and state employment regulations. The presentation focused on helping franchise owners stay compliant while building stable and sustainable operations.Workforce development was also a major topic of discussion. In one breakout session, leaders explored how organizations can shift from passive hiring strategies to more intentional community-based recruiting efforts. By engaging with schools, workforce centers and local organizations, franchise owners can build stronger talent pipelines and improve employee retention.<h2>Expanding Services and Care Innovation</h2>Care delivery innovations were another highlight of the conference, particularly in areas such as nursing services and dementia care.During a powerful breakout session, leaders focused on how adding clinical services can improve care while also creating new opportunities for owners. The discussion included updated tools and guidance to help owners assess whether nursing services make sense for their locations and how to begin building those programs.The conference highlighted the brand’s partnership with PocketRN through the federally supported GUIDE Program (Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience). Through the program, families caring for loved ones with dementia receive access to a dedicated nurse, caregiver education, respite care and ongoing support at no cost to the family.<h2>Strengthening Communication Across the System</h2>Improving communication and collaboration across the network was another key focus of the conference.The Franchise Support Center recently launched the HWCG FSC App, a mobile platform designed to help franchise owners access resources, connect with fellow owners and stay updated on system developments. Since its launch in late 2025, adoption has already reached approximately 70% of the network.Tools like the app, along with the Collective IQ platform, are designed to ensure that the ideas and momentum generated during the conference continue throughout the year.<h2>Celebrating Excellence Across the Network</h2>The conference also included time to recognize franchise owners who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, strong performance and commitment to the brand.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/kparks-parks-098347a/">Kathryn Parks</a> of Ellicott City, Maryland, was named the brand’s 2026 Franchisee of the Year, recognized for her long-standing leadership within the system and strong business performance. A Homewatch CareGivers franchise owner for more than two decades, Parks has built a reputation for operational excellence and strong engagement in her local community while also contributing to the broader success of the franchise network.Among many awards given during the conference, a shining example of Homewatch CareGivers’ core values, was Nick Argos of Glendora, CA, who was awarded both the Rookie of the Year and the Rising Star awards, based on the growth of his business during his first year as a Homewatch CareGivers franchise owner.These recognitions celebrate franchise owners who embody the brand’s values while contributing to the strength and growth of the entire system.<h2>Building Momentum for the Next Phase of Growth</h2>One message resonated throughout the entire event: the strength of the Homewatch CareGivers system lies in its people.With the network crossing 300 locations and new services continuing to expand, the conference reinforced the importance of collaboration, shared learning and bold thinking.“Collective IQ is more than a platform. It’s our opportunity to elevate voices across the system, share best practices faster and solve challenges collaboratively,” Wilson said. “The magic isn’t just in the content. It’s in the participation.”The conference in Reno served as a celebration of the system’s progress and a launching point for the next chapter.“Reno marked the moment,” Wilson said. “Now we turn vision into momentum.”For more information on franchising with Homewatch CareGivers, visit:&nbsp;<a href="https://homewatchfranchise.com/">https://homewatchfranchise.com/</a>.&nbsp;

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Franchise owners from across the country gathered in Reno to exchange ideas, discuss whats working in their markets, and plan for the year ahead.

Why This Husband and Wife Team Left Retail to Build a Homewatch CareGivers Franchise

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