TruBlue Home Service Ally

<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/thatcher-thornburg-80b887117/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=streaming-technology-veteran-launches-trublue-california-2731353" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Thatcher Thornburg’s</a> interest in aging-in-place services is deeply personal. Watching his grandmother navigate Alzheimer’s and dementia gave him firsthand insight into how challenging everyday home maintenance can become for seniors and their families. Simple tasks and overlooked safety issues can quickly turn into serious risks, especially without reliable support.While continuing to build a career in entertainment technology, leading teams, developing streaming platforms and supporting large-scale content delivery, Thatcher found himself increasingly drawn to more direct, community-based work. He wanted to apply his operational experience and problem-solving skills to something tangible: helping people maintain their homes and remain independent for as long as possible.He chose&nbsp;<a href="https://www.trubluefranchise.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=streaming-technology-veteran-launches-trublue-california-2731353" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">TruBlue Home Service Ally</a> because it allowed him to combine that mission with a professional, structured business model. As he prepares to open his location, Thatcher&nbsp;is focused on building a trusted local service that emphasizes reliability, transparency and long-term relationships with customers.Thatcher took the time to chat with 18 Franchise to discuss all of this and more. Here’s what he had to say:1851 Franchise: Frame your personal story for us. What do you want us to know?Thatcher Thornburg:&nbsp;I spent over 15 years in corporate America working in entertainment technology for one of the world’s leading studios. My team helped build a significant portion of their streaming platform, developing workflows, tools and systems that supported global content releases. It was a challenging and rewarding environment that taught me how to lead teams, manage complexity and deliver reliable results.Alongside that career, I always had a strong interest in home improvement and helping others. That motivation really came into focus when my grandmother developed Alzheimer’s and dementia. I spent a lot of time with her in hospitals and later in assisted living, and I saw how important home safety and maintenance are to quality of life. Volunteering during that time left a lasting impact on me.When my department was eventually shut down, I took the opportunity to reassess what I wanted to do next. I explored more than 18 different business options before finding a model that allowed me to help people age in place while also building a sustainable business.1851: What did you do before franchising, and how did you decide franchising made sense for you?Thornburg:&nbsp;My background is in emerging technology. I worked across DVD, Blu-ray, on-demand and streaming platforms, supporting global releases and helping test new systems for content delivery and vendor management. It was a fast-moving industry that required adaptability and strong collaboration.Franchising made sense to me because it aligned with my values and gave me a clear framework to bring a much-needed service to my community. Having access to established systems, training and a support network removes many of the early obstacles that come with starting a business from scratch, while still allowing you to build something of your own.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?Thornburg:&nbsp;My concept of franchising was that it was food-only — big chains like McDonald's where you needed millions of dollars to buy property and get involved. It never occurred to me that there were non-food franchises focused on serving the community.Now that I’m in it, I want people to know that there are hundreds of options that aren't just big global conglomerates driving a "race to the cheapest burger." You can find businesses that fulfill a massive community need. The best part is that while you are building a business yourself, you are not alone. You have a support network, which is different from my experience trying to launch an independent company where I hit constant roadblocks.1851:&nbsp;What made you pick this brand? What excites you most about this company?Thornburg:&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/trubluehomeserviceally/info">TruBlue</a> checked all the boxes for the kind of business I wanted to build. The focus on home safety, especially for seniors and busy families, really resonated with me. I was also drawn to the preventive maintenance and subscription-based services, which help homeowners stay ahead of issues rather than reacting to emergencies.In my community, there are many senior care organizations, and I see a real opportunity to partner with them by providing reliable aging-in-place updates and a trusted handyman service. TruBlue’s model emphasizes professionalism, vetted technicians and clear communication, which gives customers peace of mind. That level of trust and consistency is something I’m excited to bring to my area.1851:&nbsp;What do you hope to achieve with your business? What are your plans for growth?&nbsp;Thornburg:&nbsp;My immediate goals are to launch successfully, build the right team and reach profitability so we can reinvest back into the business and the community. I want to work with nonprofits, churches and schools to help address needs I’ve seen locally.From a growth perspective, I believe in reinvesting profits to scale responsibly. I want to build a company that values its customers and takes the time to educate them, provide excellent service and earn long-term trust.1851:&nbsp;Is there anything else about your story you want us to know?Thornburg:&nbsp;It’s really about bringing a connection back to the community. Especially in California, I see companies that come in, slap something together and leave. I want to build something that provides jobs and careers while serving seniors and busy families. I’m currently in the process of getting our support vehicles ready and ensuring we have a team that is friendly, communicative, reliable and educational.1851:&nbsp;What advice do you have for other people thinking about becoming franchise owners?Thornburg:&nbsp;At the core, this is about community connection. I want to build a business that creates local jobs, offers career paths and truly serves seniors and homeowners. Right now, I’m focused on preparing our support vehicles, finalizing systems and assembling a team that is friendly, knowledgeable and dependable.About TruBlue Home Service Ally:TruBlue Home Service Ally® provides a unique and affordable approach to helping busy adults and seniors live a worry-free life by offering trustworthy handyman, home maintenance and senior modification services. Helping you maintain your home both inside and out, TruBlue’s services include handyman projects and to-do list chores, preventative home maintenance programs, kitchen and bath remodels, seasonal work and senior modification services, all handled by professional, bonded and insured Tru-Pro® Technicians. TruBlue franchise owners are required to complete senior home safety certification programs through the NAHB and Age Safe America. As certified specialists, TruBlue franchisees are able to perform aging-in-place home safety assessments and can make recommended safety modifications as needed.

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Streaming Technology Veteran Launches TruBlue Home Service Ally in California

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After 15 years building streaming tech for a major studio, Thatcher Thornburg joined TruBlue Home Service Ally to help California seniors age in place through home modifications.

Hollywood Roots, Home Safety Focus: How TruBlue’s Aging-in-Place Model Draws Purpose-Driven Owners

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<a href="https://www.trubluefranchise.com/">TruBlue Home Service Ally</a>, a national franchise providing handyman services, preventative home maintenance and senior home modifications, has become a natural fit for husband-and-wife and family-owned teams. With a structured business model, low overhead and robust corporate support,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/trubluehomeserviceally/info">TruBlue</a> allows couples to divide responsibilities, leverage complementary strengths and serve their communities with purpose.The stories of&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/cell-phone-store-owners-set-out-on-a-new-mission-to-help-seniors-with-trublue-home-service-ally-franchise-2727462">Connie and Kevin Mottle</a> in Highland Lakes, Texas, and&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/trubluehomeserviceally/why-this-air-force-veteran-family-is-investing-in-trublue-total-house-care-2722116">Janet and Jeff Sloan</a> in Greeley, Colorado, illustrate how TruBlue empowers families to succeed, both professionally and personally.<h2>Connie and Kevin Mottle: Building on Shared Values</h2>Connie and Kevin Mottle didn’t initially set out to open a business together, but over time, the idea began to take shape. After owning two businesses in the past, including a successful cell phone store they ran for 11 years, the couple was looking for something with purpose. Personal experiences caring for Connie’s aging parents made&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/trubluehomeserviceally/a-booming-industry-the-future-of-the-home-service-market-and-why-trublue-is-poised-to-lead-2730117">the need for reliable senior home services</a> impossible to ignore.“We were looking at doing a handyman or home maintenance type business,” Connie said. “A lot of this came down to what we dealt with as my parents were aging. We found TruBlue and it really aligned with what we wanted to do and what we were looking for. Rather than starting that business from scratch, we started looking into what franchising had to offer us.”For Kevin, who had previously built businesses independently,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/trubluehomeserviceally/5-reasons-to-invest-in-a-trublue-franchise-in-2024-2725668">the franchise structure was appealing</a>. “I started my last two businesses from scratch, which took a lot of time and wasn’t necessarily my strength,” he said. “TruBlue already has the structure and national presence, which made it a perfect fit for us.”Connie agreed that the built-in support was critical. “Knowing that there’s a system in place gives us confidence in our ability to grow the business,” she said.One of&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/trubluehomeserviceally/why-trublue-is-a-great-franchise-for-power-couples-2727170">the biggest advantages TruBlue provides for couples</a> is clarity around roles. Rather than competing for responsibilities, franchisees are encouraged to lean into their individual strengths.“I do a lot of the marketing and things like that, so it’s really been beneficial in the ways that we work,” Connie said. “They offer all the support and are always willing to help and lend an ear and help us make changes. Kevin focuses more on operations and building the team.”Connie added that defining responsibilities has strengthened both their marriage and their business. “It’s been good owning something as a couple, we had to figure out our own strengths,” she said. “We are figuring out what the day, the month and even the year looks like. Luckily, we share the same ‘why.’ That is a great foundation to work off of.”Just as important, the Mottles understand the importance of boundaries. “We also know when to step away from the business day,” Connie said. “We are empty nesters, and we could spend all day in the office, but when it comes time to separate work and home, you need to.”<h2>Janet and Jeff Sloan: Mission-Driven Ownership</h2>For Jeff and Janet Sloan, TruBlue represented a continuation of a life dedicated to service. After 25 years in the military, Jeff was ready for a new chapter that still allowed him to serve others.“We have always had a heart for serving seniors,” Jeff said. “After quite a bit of research, we found TruBlue and were drawn to the business model, supporting seniors while taking care of their homes so they can age in place. Who doesn’t want to stay in their home as long as they can in safety, independence and dignity? That is really what drew us to TruBlue.”<a href="https://1851franchise.com/trubluehomeserviceally/why-trublue-is-a-great-franchise-opportunity-for-veterans-2727890">The franchise model itself particularly appealed to Jeff’s background</a>. “The whole structured process really aligns with the way the military operates,” he said. “We loved that franchise business model. The training, the support, the marketing, the technology, the leadership, it is all already in place.”Like the Mottles, the Sloans divided responsibilities based on strengths.“We’ve broken up the tasks a bit,” Jeff said. “I am more in charge of the operations side of things and she does more of the marketing. She gets out promoting in the community. We’ve broken it down based on what we like to do. She likes interacting with people, and I enjoy the nuts and bolts. With that delegation of responsibilities, it has worked out really great for us.”Janet says that communication is key when working with your spouse. “One of the things you have to remember when working from home, you sometimes just have to separate work-life,” she said. “You have to be able to communicate on that. That is a good daily reminder: ask your TruBlue partner what they are thinking about at the moment before jumping into something.”And while working with a spouse can be rewarding, the Sloans say the support behind the scenes matters just as much. “The thing that I really benefit from is having someone at TruBlue who I can speak with and ask questions. We have a team out there,” Janet said. “It might not be in the office, but they are a quick phone call or an email away. Having that support really helps quite a bit. You won’t have all the answers, so TruBlue gives you a network to brainstorm.”Jeff put it simply: “Two heads are better than one. There is a lot to get done. I can’t imagine having to do everything that she does.”<h2>A Reputation Built on Family Trust</h2>For both couples,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/why-this-couple-left-corporate-america-to-build-a-community-focused-trublue-business-in-the-town-where-they-raised-their-sons-2730844">the family-owned nature</a> of their business isn’t just operational, it’s personal.“Our partnership brings a unique advantage to our customers,” Connie said. “We bring that trust and consistency and accountability. We actually live here in the community. This carries our name and reputation as well. Our personal investment shows in how we treat customers in every project.”Janet shares that same focus on integrity. “There is something to be said about being honest and making sure people in your community can really trust you and the service you are providing,” she said. “We intend to keep doing that.”For couples considering franchising together, Jeff offers straightforward advice:“Make sure you go into something you are passionate about,” he said. “We really have a heart for serving those seniors in the community. Make sure it is a mission that you are passionate about and you can enjoy working on together.”To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/trubluehousecare/info">https://1851franchise.com/trubluehousecare/info</a>.

For many couples and families, owning a business together is about building something meaningful that reflects shared values. Here’s how TruBlue fits the bill. 

How TruBlue Home Service Ally Supports Husband-and-Wife and Family-Owned Franchise Teams

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Inspired by His Mother's Battle With MS, Richard Scott Is Helping East Alabama Families Age Safely at Home With TruBlue Home Service Ally

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Tech Industry Veteran Turns to TruBlue Home Service Ally to Build a Legacy with Purpose in The Woodlands, Texas

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Why This Philanthropist and Pastor Is Starting a TruBlue Franchise in Wilmington, North Carolina

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As more Americans choose to remain in their homes as they age, “aging in place” has moved from a personal preference to one of the fastest-growing trends shaping the home services industry. For&nbsp;<a href="https://www.trubluefranchise.com/">TruBlue Home Service Ally</a>, that shift is the foundation of the brand’s growth, momentum and long-term opportunity.“We had our best year ever in 2025 and are off to a strong start in 2026,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/seancfitzgerald">Sean Fitzgerald</a>, President of&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/trubluehomeserviceally/info">TruBlue</a>. “We’ve seen tremendous growth in not only new franchise owners but also in systemwide growth and revenue. Last year, we more than doubled our new franchise agreements signed, and saw a nearly 30% increase in systemwide revenue.”That growth, Fitzgerald says, is being driven by a convergence of demographic realities and unmet needs. As the population ages, more homeowners want to stay put and increasingly need practical, non-medical support to do so safely.<h2>The Aging-in-Place Wave Has Arrived</h2>For years, industry experts talked about the coming “wave” of aging in place. Fitzgerald says that wave is no longer theoretical.“It’s no longer theoretical, the wave is here,” he said. “We’re seeing it in real time, and it’s what’s driving our growth. That demand is only going to continue, and we’re well positioned to meet it.”<a href="https://1851franchise.com/trubluehomeserviceally/5-reasons-to-invest-in-a-trublue-franchise-in-2024-2725668">One reason TruBlue is so well-positioned is its focus on the home itself</a>. While much of the senior industry centers on medical care or daily living assistance, TruBlue addresses the physical environment, which is the single biggest barrier to aging safely at home.“As aging in place continues to grow in demand, there are not a lot of options in place for people who need simple and minor senior modifications like adding grab bars and handheld showers,” Fitzgerald said. “That’s right up our alley.”<h2>Filling a Critical Gap in Senior Services</h2>Fitzgerald points to a clear gap in the marketplace. Durable medical equipment providers tend to focus on large installations, while smaller, safety-driven projects are often overlooked.“They don’t want to mess with small projects because it isn’t worth it for them, and seniors are finding it hard to find trustworthy people to come in,” he said. “There is this void in the marketplace for services.”<a href="https://1851franchise.com/trubluehomeserviceally/why-this-serial-entrepreneur-decided-on-trublue-total-house-care-franchise-ownership-as-his-next-endeavor-2721907">TruBlue fills that void</a> by focusing on minor modifications, repairs and preventative maintenance, services that are increasingly age-driven rather than need-driven.“Historically, health insurance companies would cover things that were prescribed by a doctor,” Fitzgerald said. “Now more of these services are age-driven instead of need-driven. People are becoming eligible for minor senior modifications, and that is our sweet spot.”As a result,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/trubluehomeserviceally/a-booming-industry-the-future-of-the-home-service-market-and-why-trublue-is-poised-to-lead-2730117">demand continues to rise</a>. “There are a lot of people aging in place who don’t have need-based services,” Fitzgerald said. “Our demand is only going to increase because we are happy to do these minor senior modifications.”<h2>Building Long-Term Relationships, Not Transactions</h2>Unlike one-off repair businesses, TruBlue is built around long-term relationships and recurring service. “Our goal is to build our customer base, it’s not transactional,” Fitzgerald said.That philosophy is reinforced through&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/trubluehomeserviceally/trublues-home-maintenance-plans-peace-of-mind-for-homeowners-2729337">TruBlue’s subscription-based Home Maintenance Plans</a>, which help homeowners stay ahead of small issues before they become safety risks or costly repairs. It’s a model that creates peace of mind for customers and stability for franchise owners.As TruBlue expands its footprint, new opportunities are opening up at a national level.“Because we’ve grown so rapidly and we have much more coverage than we did even a year ago, we are beginning to develop more strategic partners and programs,” Fitzgerald said. “We’re building relationships with large organizations and expanding that to help people age in place.”Many of these services are also becoming subsidized, further accelerating demand. The biggest constraint, Fitzgerald noted, isn’t demand. It’s coverage.<h2>Thought Leadership Rooted in Real Experience</h2>Fitzgerald’s leadership in the aging-in-place conversation extends beyond TruBlue’s day-to-day operations. He was recently a contributor to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Aging-Place-Conversations-Caregivers-Strategies-ebook/dp/B0FVTN84T3">“Aging in Place Conversations — The Caregiver’s Edition,”</a> a collection of stories, strategies and insights focused on helping people age safely in their communities published by NAIPC (National Aging in Place Council).That perspective reflects TruBlue’s broader mission, which is to support independence, dignity and safety at home, while giving franchise owners a meaningful way to serve their communities.“Our owners have been doing a great job connecting to the community,” Fitzgerald said. “And as this demand continues to grow, we’re exactly where we need to be.”For more information on franchising with TruBlue, visit:&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/trubluehomeserviceally/info">https://1851franchise.com/trubluehomeserviceally/info</a>.

As aging in place reshapes the home services landscape, TruBlue Home Service Ally stands at the center of one of the most purpose-driven opportunities in the industry.

How Franchisees Can Capitalize on One of the Fastest-Growing Home Trends With TruBlue

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Hollywood Roots, Home Safety Focus: How TruBlue’s Aging-in-Place Model Draws Purpose-Driven Owners

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