To help meet the growing demand of older Americans who want to remain in their own homes and stay as self- sufficient as possible, the co-founders of Seniors Helping Seniors® In-Home Services® (SHS), a non-profit organization serving Reading and Berks County, Pennsylvania, announced today they are launching a for-profit Seniors Helping Seniors franchise system.

Kiran Yocom, the co-founder and executive director of Seniors Helping Seniors, said the decision to expand is based on the ongoing success and growth of the organization established in 1998 that today encompasses more than 250 senior providers helping more than 600 senior receivers. Her husband, Philip Yocom, will oversee the franchise system.

Philip Yocom said, "What began as a heartfelt mission to fill a need that was not being served by our local community is now being recognized as a prime business opportunity being fueled by the fastest growing demographic in our society."

Seniors Helping Seniors matches providers who can offer services such as household assistance, companion care or 24-hour care with seniors who need services. In 2005, Seniors Helping Seniors provided 11,000 hours of service, nearly double that of 2004.

"We want the existing Seniors Helping Seniors organization and any future franchises to be the first place that seniors in need of non-medical services and those seeking extra income call," said Philip Yocom, who has more than 25 years' experience in developing and overseeing franchises.

"We have had great success with our center in Berks County. We want to share that success with others and have found that a for-profit business model is more attractive to business leaders to bring Seniors Helping Seniors to their communities."

He said the for-profit Seniors Helping Seniors franchise system seeks to grant its first five franchises in Lancaster, Lebanon, York, Harrisburg and Main Line Philadelphia for an initial investment of approximately $25,000 per franchise territory.

"We will support all of our master licensees and franchisees with all of the expertise we have gained in running Seniors Helping Seniors. We'll also provide marketing, sales, management, and technology support."

He added, "We believe we have found a practical, cost-effective way to help seniors remain independent and to continue contributing. As we grow nationwide, we remain committed to providing our brand of loving, giving, caring, compassionate service."

Source: Seniors Helping Seniors(R)