About Us

Our journey began in 2004 when our family experienced firsthand the critical need for qualified, compassionate caregivers during our mother’s battle with cancer. This personal experience ignited our passion for serving elders, driving our commitment to providing the highest quality, personalized care tailored to each client’s needs.

Here’s a snapshot of what sets us apart:

  • Local ownership complemented by the national support and resources of Touching Hearts at Home franchise in Minneapolis, MN, ensuring the best of both worlds for our clients.
  • All caregivers undergo rigorous background checks, training, and are insured and bonded for peace of mind.
  • Our Albany, Buffalo, Syracuse, and Rochester offices boast administrative and supervisory staff available 24/7, offering personalized attention to every client.
  • We collaborate closely with elders, their caregivers, and experts in elder care to ensure the highest standards of care and service.
  • Home Care Pulse recognizing industry leading services and job satisfaction.
  • With over 16 years of experience in the field, backed by references from satisfied clients and referral sources, we offer a trusted solution for your home care needs.

Contact us today to discover how we can tailor our services to meet your unique requirements. We’re ready to provide assistance with no cost or obligation, offering peace of mind and support when you need it most.

Mark McDermott, Owner:

Mark brings more than 35 years of senior care management, business, and legal experience to his role as owner of Touching Hearts. The home care his mother received before her death in 2009 from ovarian cancer, and the great role model his father was as her caregiver, motivates him to provide the excellent home support elders deserve. Mark has a bachelor’s degree from Boston College and a JD Degree from University of Buffalo. He is past Chair for the Board of Lifespan. He is a Certified Eden Associate. Outside of work Mark enjoys reading, fishing, traveling, and spending time at his “off the grid” cabin in Quebec with his wife and children. A favorite quote of his is, “To whom much is given, from him much is expected.”

Lisa, Executive Director:

Lisa is the esteemed Executive Director of Touching Hearts at Home-Syracuse, bringing her extensive expertise and passion for community service to the role since 2022. With over 30 years of experience in the non-profit sector, Lisa has held various senior executive positions, driven by her innate desire to make a positive impact in the lives of others. Committed to serving her community, Lisa actively participates in volunteer work and serves on multiple boards. When not dedicating herself to her professional endeavors, Lisa cherishes quality time with her family, indulging in activities such as biking, reading, and traveling.

Lisa

Tess, Community Relations Manager:

Tess, our dedicated Community Relations Manager, joined Touching Hearts at Home in November 2022, bringing over two decades of experience in community relations within the not-for-profit sector. Armed with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Marketing from LeMoyne College, Tess is well-equipped to foster meaningful connections and partnerships. Beyond her professional achievements, Tess is a resilient 27-year cancer survivor, actively advocating for cancer awareness and support. In her leisure time, she enjoys hosting themed parties, cooking, gardening, and volunteering her time for various causes close to her heart.

Tess

Jodi, Human Resource Manager:

Jodi, our esteemed Human Resource Manager, commenced her journey with Touching Hearts in February 2023, bringing a wealth of diverse experience from her previous roles. Having served as the News Assignment/Operations Manager at WTVH-5 CBS and owning and operating Ultimate Fitness, Jodi’s versatile background enriches her approach to human resource management. Furthermore, her tenure as the Director of School Age Childcare and Camp at the YMCA of Central New York underscores her dedication to fostering growth and development. Outside of work, Jodi enjoys spending quality time with her loved ones and engaging in outdoor activities.

Melanie, Scheduling Coordinator:

Melanie, our dedicated Scheduling Coordinator, joined the Touching Hearts team in February 2024, bringing over two decades of experience in senior community care. A compassionate caregiver at heart, Melanie discovered her passion for senior care upon obtaining her LPN degree in 2011. Her previous roles as an Executive Assistant and Private In-home Care Partner further honed her organizational skills and empathetic approach. Hailing from Lubbock, Texas, and raised in the Adirondacks, Melanie finds solace in spending time with her large, blended family and indulging in outdoor adventures, cooking, and home renovations. With a youthful spirit and an old soul, Melanie approaches her work with boundless enthusiasm and dedication.

Melanie

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