Jon and Jennifer Watkins
After both of their grandparents received in-home care as they aged, Jon and Jennifer Watkins knew that Right at Home was the ideal franchise opportunity for them because they wanted to help make seniors’ lives more comfortable and happy within their homes.
Originally from Southern California, these high school sweethearts moved to Salt Lake City so Jon could pursue an opportunity to host a morning show on Utah’s New Country 101.5 and 105.1 The Eagle. After spending the last nine years in the real estate and finance industries, Jennifer decided to put her psychology and sociology degrees to use by opening a Right at Home.
With a growing family and mounting ambition, Jon and Jennifer began to search for different business ventures within their community. Taking the in-home care experiences they had shared with their grandparents into account, the couple began to research the industry. Respecting Right at Home’s commitment to its patients as well as the brand’s mission, Jon and Jennifer decided to sign on as franchisees; their goal is to provide help to those who need it most.
The twosome also serves the community as members of the West Jordan Chamber of Commerce, Utah Association for Home Care, Cottonwood Heights Arts Council, and Junior League of Salt Lake. They are former members of the Park City Film Series and are strong supporters of the American Heart Association.
How did you find out about Right at Home?
Jon: We were looking for a new business opportunity to embrace as a couple; I wanted to stay in radio but I also wanted to make sure that we had a way to build a financial future for our family. We wanted a business that helped people, and since my mother is a home healthcare nurse in California, we began our research on the industry and Right at Home kept coming up as a top contender.
Why did you choose an opportunity with Right at Home?
We liked the brand’s structure and the amount of support they give to franchisees, and we noticed how caregivers appreciate the brand. That trickles down, and we liked that Right at Home created that type of atmosphere for franchisees, employees, and caregivers.
What personal experience do you have in your own family with caring for a senior?
Both of our grandparents received in-home care assistance or hospice care. They were both in California and had no family there; it was beneficial for them and us, as well. We knew they were being cared for.
It was such an eye-opening experience. With extra help at the house that she lived in with my grandpa for 50 years, my grandma was able to stay out of the hospital and senior living center.
Please list any nonprofit organizations, community groups, volunteer activities, etc. you are/have been involved with:
West Jordan Chamber of Commerce, Utah Association for Home Care, Cottonwood Heights Arts Council, Junior League of Salt Lake; former members of the Park City Film Series; and strong supporters of the American Heart Association.