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.
Connected Home Care Across New York State
At Touching Hearts at Home, we are proud to be part of a trusted home care network serving seniors across Albany, Buffalo, Rochester, and Syracuse. As sister agencies, we collaborate to provide high-quality in-home care services, ensuring older adults receive the personalized, compassionate support they deserve.
Through teamwork, education, and shared resources, our agencies strengthen each other, allowing us to enhance home care services, stay ahead of industry best practices, and provide families with the peace of mind that their loved ones are in expert, caring hands. Together, we are making a greater impact in communities across New York, helping seniors age in place safely and comfortably.
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 the Vice-Chair of the Board of Lifespan a member of the Greater Rochester Area Partnership for the Elderly (GRAPE) Advocacy Committee. 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.”
Brenda Houtenbrink, Vice President
Brenda Houtenbrink, Vice President, leads operations in Syracuse, Rochester, and Buffalo for Touching Hearts at Home. With over 30 years of healthcare management experience, Brenda has held notable positions such as Senior Program Administrator at Highland Hospital’s Department of Family Medicine and Chief of Operations at the University of Rochester’s Flaum Eye Institute.
Brenda holds a Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration from Roberts Wesleyan College, providing her with a solid foundation to drive innovation and excellence in her role. Her dedication to quality care and operational efficiency promises a significant positive impact on our organization and the communities we serve.
Outside of work, Brenda enjoys spending time with her three adult children, a grandson, and a soon-to-arrive granddaughter. She also loves traveling, gardening, sewing, DIY projects, and exploring local craft breweries with her husband, John.
Brenda shares, “I am captivated by the mission and values of this outstanding organization. I look forward to working with our dedicated team and elder care community to grow our mission and enhance the quality of life for those we serve.”
Daniel Costello, Executive Director
Daniel Costello joined Touching Hearts at Home Rochester as Executive Director in November 2024, bringing over a decade of expertise in the healthcare recruitment sector. With a passion for improving quality of care, Dan is dedicated to supporting clients and their families with compassionate, high-quality home care services.
Dan’s extensive experience includes business development, client relationship management, quality improvement, team building, strategic planning, and program management. His proven leadership and strategic vision align seamlessly with the Touching Hearts mission, making him an invaluable asset to our team.
As Executive Director, Dan oversees all operations of the Rochester office, fostering collaboration with a dedicated team and community partners to meet the evolving needs of those we serve. His commitment to excellence and innovation ensures that Touching Hearts at Home continues to deliver outstanding care to clients and their loved ones.
Giovanna Lerminiaux, Sales and Marketing Manager
Giovanna Lerminiaux, Sales and Marketing Manager, comes from a background in senior living within Rochester, NY. With a Bachelor’s degree in Therapeutic Recreation and a Master’s degree in Non-profit management, she has utilized her education and skill set to grow organizations through expert sales and marketing strategies and techniques over the last 12 years. Giovanna’s passion for senior care began early in her life as she helped care for loved ones as a child. She believes that all seniors have the right to age in place on their own terms; leading a safe, happy and healthy lifestyle!
