In 2011, Janice LaMere’s father became ill and needed daily care. She was driving quite a distance almost every day to assist him and her mother with his care. Eventually, she became their full-time caregiver. When her father’s needs became overwhelming, he moved to a nursing home. At the nursing home, Janice saw the inadequate level of care and large expense and felt that there had to be a solution to help seniors stay in their own homes as long as possible while providing their caregivers with extra help and mental and financial support.
Janice decided to start a non-profit organization to provide a solution to seniors and their families. She faced several hurdles, including a lack of start-up money and a business plan. She heard about the Women’s Business Center in SLO and decided to enroll in the Explore, Design and Launch course in 2023. The EDL course helped her develop a plan and guide her through the many challenges and details of opening and expanding a non-profit organization.
Today, Bridge of Hope Aging-in-Place Solutions provides the necessary in-home care resources to the senior community that will promote wellness and safety while bridging the financial gap that exists for in-home care services. They endeavor to subsidize the cost of in-home, nonmedical care for eligible home-bound individuals through community donations, fundraising efforts, and grants.
Janice says, “You can’t put a price on the Explore, Design & Launch course and how supported you feel. I can’t say enough good things about the Women’s Business Center and the help and education I received there. I give them an A+!”
Funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U. S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, conclusions or recommendations expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA. Reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. Call MCSC Program Director at 805-595-1357. MCSC is an equal opportunity provider. MCSC is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization.