For Jen Serfass, caregiving is not just a business — it’s woven into the fabric of her life. Inspired by her mother’s role as a caregiver and a serendipitous moment that affirmed her calling, Jen opened her Seniors Helping Seniors® franchise in the Ozarks in October 2024.

Since then, Jen has already grown the business significantly, with nearly 50 caregivers helping seniors across the region. Drawing on her experience as a top sales manager, a homeschooling mother and a lifelong advocate for senior care, Jen is creating meaningful opportunities for both seniors who need assistance and those who want to give back.

1851 Franchise spoke with Jen to dive deeper into her journey, her decision to franchise with Seniors Helping Seniors®, and her exciting plans for the future. 

1851 Franchise spoke with Serfass to learn more about her story, her decision to franchise with Seniors Helping Seniors® and her plans for the future. 

1851 Franchise: Can you share a bit about your personal story? What were you doing before you decided to franchise, and how did you arrive at the decision to go down this path?

Jen Serfass: I met my husband when he was working for an automotive group, and they brought me on in sales. I quickly became the top salesperson at the dealership and was later promoted to business manager. I had a great time in the corporate world, but when we started raising our four kids, I knew I didn’t want to return to a traditional 9-to-5 job. For the last decade, I’ve been homeschooling them, with a mix of school and home lessons. That flexibility made me realize I wanted to find a business that would allow me to contribute while still being there for my kids. We started looking into franchises, and that’s when we discovered Seniors Helping Seniors®.

1851 Franchise: Before becoming a franchisee, what did you think about franchising, and how has your perception changed since you joined?

Jen Serfass: Honestly, franchising never really crossed my mind before, but I quickly learned how incredibly supportive the franchisor is. They provide all the tools and resources needed to start a business — and there’s always someone on the other end of the line when you need help. For me, the support has been key in feeling confident as I navigate this new venture.

1851 Franchise: What drew you to Seniors Helping Seniors® specifically, and what excites you most about the company?

Jen Serfass: The mission to help seniors in our community is close to my heart. Growing up, my mom was a full-time caregiver for both my grandfather, who had Alzheimer’s, and my grandmother, who had mobility challenges. It was always part of my life. I also had a pivotal moment that really affirmed I was on the right path. After a conversation about Seniors Helping Seniors®, I was at a grocery store when I noticed an elderly woman who was about to fall. I rushed to help her and, after she thanked me, she told me I should consider doing caregiving for a living. That moment confirmed this was the direction I was meant to go.

I also love the model of hiring other seniors to provide care. It gives them meaningful work and an opportunity to stay active and engaged in their communities. It’s been an incredible start, and I’m excited to be growing the business. I receive new inquiries almost daily.

1851 Franchise: What are your goals for your business moving forward? How do you envision its growth?

Jen Serfass: Eventually, we’d love to expand our service area and grow the business to a point where it can be handed down to our kids. It’s not just about business growth for me; it’s about creating a legacy and continuing to impact the lives of seniors and caregivers alike.

1851 Franchise: What’s the one thing you want people to know about your story?

Jen Serfass: I truly believe everything happens for a reason. I don’t usually respond to spam emails, but one day I opened an email from Mike Welch, a franchise consultant, and for some reason, I decided to reply. I never imagined that one simple response would turn into an opportunity to own a business in an industry I’ve been passionate about my entire life. I’m grateful to Mike for guiding me to where I am today. I’ve always been surrounded by caregiving, and now I’m able to build a business around it while continuing to homeschool my children.

1851 Franchise: What advice would you give to anyone considering franchising?

Jen Serfass: The most important thing is to understand the level of support you’ll receive. Make sure to ask about the resources and assistance the franchisor offers to help you succeed. That support has been invaluable to me as I build my business.

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.