About Us

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 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.”

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.”

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.

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.

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, 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.