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.

 

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.

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 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.”

Wendy Greenwood, Executive Director

Wendy Greenwood is dedicated to supporting seniors throughout Western New York. After a long and successful career in sales and marketing, she discovered her true calling when she joined us in 2023, quickly realizing that serving seniors and their families is the most rewarding work of her life.

In her role as Executive Director, Wendy brings warmth, clarity, and steady guidance to every family she works with. She personally meets with families, answers calls, and ensures each client receives the thoughtful support they deserve. Wendy also deeply values her Buffalo team, appreciating the dedication and teamwork that allow them to make a meaningful difference in the community together.

Outside of work, Wendy is a proud mom of three and a new grandmother. She loves cheering on the Bills and Sabres with a good glass of wine, traveling anywhere warm, and spending time at home with her mini schnauzers, Hogan and Schultz.

Wendy leads with heart, understanding each client’s unique needs and striving to ensure every senior feels seen, heard, and genuinely cared for.

Carey Creenan, Community Relations Manager

Carey is our Community Relations Manager, bringing strong knowledge and experience in home care. She serves on the Board of the WNY Network in Aging, where she builds valuable connections and stays up-to-date on resources that support seniors.

Originally from Cheektowaga, Carey grew up on the same block as her large, close-knit family, which gave her a lifelong appreciation for togetherness and support. She was drawn to the home care field after witnessing her mother lovingly care for her grandmother while managing school, work, and family. Carey carries those early lessons with her today, helping others explore their care options with empathy, patience, and understanding.

In her free time, Carey enjoys traveling to concerts with her daughter, attending Bills games with friends, and volunteering with local groups such as We R Buffalo Strong and Trusted Gives to support the Buffalo community. She loves bringing people together and creating meaningful connections.

SaraJane Shadden, Client Care Coordinator

As a Client Care Coordinator at Touching Hearts at Home, SaraJane is dedicated to building meaningful relationships and ensuring every client receives compassionate, dignified care. She takes pride in helping families feel confident and supported throughout their care journey.

SaraJane first joined Touching Hearts as a Care Partner, where her empathy, professionalism, and outstanding performance quickly set her apart. Her success in the field led to her transition into her current role, where she now serves as a liaison between clients and care partners to ensure smooth communication and personalized support.

Her passion for home-based care is shaped by her own experience caring for loved ones, giving her a deep appreciation for comfort, safety, and individualized attention.

Outside of work, SaraJane is a proud mom and cat mom and enjoys running her Poshmark shop, where she sells clothing and home goods.

Nicole Kelly, HR Manager

Nicole is a seasoned Human Resources Manager with more than a decade of experience in the healthcare industry. Guided by a genuine passion for geriatric care, she is deeply committed to supporting individuals, families, and care teams with empathy and professionalism. Nicole has held several leadership roles throughout her career, including Director of Admissions for a skilled nursing facility, where she worked closely with residents and their loved ones to ensure smooth, compassionate transitions.

Recognized for her heart-centered approach and strong professional insight, Nicole brings warmth, integrity, and a people-first mindset to every interaction.

Outside of work, Nicole is a proud mother of four—two boys and two girls—and stays busy with a lively household that includes two dogs, one cat, and a fish affectionately named Teddyswims. She enjoys camping and hiking with her family, cheering on the Buffalo Bills, and is unanimously regarded in the office as the best charcuterie board maker.

Amy Brundo, Lead Scheduler

Amy is the Lead Scheduler at Touching Hearts at Home in Buffalo, bringing a unique blend of caregiving experience, administrative skill, and genuine compassion to our team. With 16 years as a CNA in a local facility, she understands both the clinical and operational sides of care. Her background includes supporting physical therapy plans to help individuals regain strength and independence, and she carries that same dedication into coordinating care for our clients today.

Often the first friendly voice families hear when they call, Amy is known for her warmth, professionalism, and heartfelt commitment to others.

Outside of work, she enjoys roller skating with her teenage daughter—a hobby she loved growing up—and spending time tailgating with family. She’s also part of a supportive group of friends known as the “Mom Squad,” who gather monthly to connect and recharge.

Amy’s passion for caring for others shines through in everything she does, making her a trusted and valued member of the Touching Hearts team.

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Senior Home Care Service area includes: Akron, Amherst, Buffalo, Clarence, Cheektowaga, Depew, East Aurora, Grand Island, Kenmore, Lancaster, Lockport, Niagara Falls, Orchard Park, Sloan, North Tonawanda, Tonawanda, West Seneca, Williamsville. Specializing in Hospital Recovery Rehab Care, Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care, Companionship Care, Live-in Care, Senior At Home Care – Compassionate Care for Seniors and their Families. Looking for senior home care in the greater Buffalo, NY area? Contact us today!