About Us​

Welcome to A-Plus In Home Care!

We are a non-medical home care company based in Fresno, California. Founded in 1999, we have been providing quality home care services to individuals and families in Fresno, Madera, and Tulare counties for over 20 years.

At A-Plus In Home Care, we understand that everyone’s needs are different. That’s why we offer a wide range of services to meet the unique needs of each of our clients. From companionship and light housekeeping to personal care and transportation, we are here to help.

Our team of experienced and compassionate caregivers are dedicated to providing the highest quality of care. We are committed to helping our seniors maintain their independence and dignity while providing the support they need to live a safe and comfortable life.

We are proud to be a part of the Fresno community and look forward to continuing to serve our clients for many years to come. If you or a loved one are in need of home care services, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We are here to help.

Our Values

Integrity

We are honest and act according to moral and ethical principles.

HEART

We have passion and deep feelings for our clients and employees.

Customer service

We provide consistent, safe, and evidence-based services that improve the quality of life for our clients and their families.

Dedication

We have a sense of ownership and commitment to putting people first.

Teamwork

We believe in working collaboratively in order to achieve the best outcome.

Our Mission

Our mission is simple.  We are here to help. 

We help by not only providing quality care at great value, but also by answering questions, offering advice, suggesting resources, or simply by listening.  We sincerely believe that the more people we can help the more successful we will be as a company and as part of the greater Fresno community. 

Why Choose Us?

For over 25 years A-Plus In Home Care has provided high-quality, reliable, compassionate care and services for seniors.  Our mission is simple:  We are here to help.

We help by not only providing top-tier licensed home care services but also by answering questions, offering advice, suggesting resources, or simply by listening.  We sincerely believe that the more people we can help the more successful we will be as a company and as part of the greater California healthcare community.

A-Plus In Home Care assists with activities of daily living including personal care, respite care, transportation assistance, live-in care, light housekeeping, and companionship.  We recognize that each client’s needs are unique, therefore we work with their support system to determine the appropriate services specific to their situation.

As a California HCO (licensed Home Care Organization), A-Plus In Home Care is bound to adhere to the highest standards for caregiver screening, caregiver training, infectious disease protocols (including COVID-19), insurance levels, and general business practices.

In addition to assisting families, we also support the needs of discharge planners, social workers, conservators, beneficiaries, trust officers, attorneys, and other professionals who need reliable and quality home care services for their clients or patients.

Our Team

Mary Fester-Clark
Owner
Lyle Fester
Owner
Andy Howard
CEO
Don Franks
President
Lydia Yliz
Staffing Manager
Deborah Burks
Office Manager
About A-Plus In Home Care in Fresno, CA
Cindy Kitchen
Accounting Assistant
Justene Fester
Staffing Manager
Chrissy Sotelo
Administrative Manager
About A-Plus In Home Care in Fresno, CA
Mary Fester-Clark
Owner

I was born and raised in Minnesota, but I moved out to Fresno, California when I was seventeen years old. After getting married and having my first child, I wanted to find a way to stay home with my children while also earning an income. That’s when I decided to open and operate a licensed daycare, which I did for over fifteen years. During that time, I took care of over 40 children from infancy to sixth grade graduation, and many of them still maintain close relationships with me to this day.

As my own children entered junior high and high school, I was presented with an opportunity to start a career in senior living. I began working in sales and marketing at an assisted living community, then moved on to become an admissions coordinator in a skilled nursing facility. Eventually, I became the owner and operator of A-Plus in Home Care. I feel incredibly grateful to be part of such an honest, hardworking, ethical, and compassionate team. We all truly have the best interests of seniors at heart.

About A-Plus In Home Care in Fresno, CA
Lyle Fester
Owner

It was the very personal trial of my father’s illness and eventual death that led my mother to start the business. Prior to my father’s death, my mother and I were his only caregivers. This took a tremendous toll on us both physically and emotionally. It was then that we realized what a wonderful service we could offer others who might be in a similar situation.

It wasn’t long before the company opened for business! At first we had 1 home care aide and 1 office employee. That was in 1999. As of now, we have approximately 50 home care aides and 5 office employees.

I realize there will always be a need for the services A-Plus In Home Care provides. I also realize that there are a growing number of companies that provide similar services. It has always been my conviction to be above the best in the business. I am a ‘Hands On” business owner. I personally meet with every family we service. Prior to service I will make a visit to the home and meet with the family members. While we do not charge for this visit, we feel it is extremely helpful when it comes to knowing the hearts and wishes of the family.

I spend regular hours in the office and I also make visits to our clients’ homes. These visits help me to stay abreast of the ever-changing needs of the family. The visits also give me time to see our home care aides in action. I get great pleasure in watching our home care aides interact with our clients and their families.

Additionally, I believe that it is important to talk with a real live human being when you call our company. If you call our office while the staff is not on site you are directed to our “On-Call” phone line. Our office staff answers this phone, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

I understand fully how emotionally taxing it can be to have an ill loved one, one recovering from surgery or someone nearing the end of their life. It is our commitment to do everything that we can to make this time as easy for the family as we possibly can.

About A-Plus In Home Care in Fresno, CA
Andy Howard
CEO

Andy Howard  is a Bay Area Native who holds a BA in Political Science (University of Colorado at Boulder, ’97).  After college Andy worked in the surging tech industry.  His Grandmother however, would suffer a significant decline in health and ultimately needed in-home care.  The experience of a loved one depending on outside help to age in place proved to be pivotal for Andy as he left the tech industry in 2002 for an opportunity in the home care world with a large provider.  After having success in home care, but being frustrated by corporate constraints Andy founded A-Plus In Home Care in 2005.  He methodically built the company one client at a time by focusing on hiring quality caregivers to ensure positive outcomes.  Currently Andy serves as the CEO of A-Plus In Home Care and is also highly active in the non-profit organization California Association of Health Services at Home (CAHSAH) which advocates for a higher standard of in-home care for those who wish to remain living at home in California.

About A-Plus In Home Care in Fresno, CA
Don Franks
President
As the President of A-Plus In Home Care, Franks is responsible for marketing, business development, and human resources. Franks has a proven executive management track record and over 15 years of experience driving sales growth in the medical industry. Prior to joining A-Plus In Home Care, Franks was Chief Executive Officer for Juvo Autism and Behavioral Health, responsible for all facets of business activity. Franks led the successful acquisition of Juvo in 2016. Prior to Juvo, Franks served as Vice President for Professional Healthcare at Home and was responsible for the home care division as well as marketing for the overall organization. Professional Healthcare at Home was acquired by Kindred Healthcare in 2011, which Franks helped drive the acquisition process. Franks holds a Bachelors of Science in Management with continuing education from University of California Los Angeles. Franks enjoys spending time with his family and training in Aikido, boxing and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
Lydia Yliz
Staffing Manager

Last year, I joined HCP after gaining experience in home care with A-Plus. My career in geriatric healthcare started 22 years ago when I volunteered at a senior living facility in Fresno at the age of 16. At that time, I was studying both animal and medical science, but I soon realized that healthcare was my true calling. Although I still provide medical advice for pets to family and friends, my focus remains on geriatric care and training. Working closely with hospice nurses and doctors in facilities and offices specializing in Alzheimer’s and dementia has given me valuable experience. I made a promise to my mother that I would be her caretaker when she reached a certain age, and I hope to train excellent caregivers and provide advanced training in the office for those wishing to enhance their skillset. Of course, I will continue to provide care whenever needed.

Deborah Burks
Office Manager

Debi grew up in St. Cloud Minnesota and lived there for 20 years.  After arriving in Fresno, CA she married and had two daughters. To be able to spend time with them, she ran a licensed day care in her home. After her daughters were in school, she thought it was a good time to try something different and started working at A-Plus In Home Care.  In the beginning they used a pager, pencil and carried a three-ring binder everywhere to hold all the client information.  After over 20 years, she saw technology evolve and cell phones, iPads and computers made things much easier.  

Debi has built relationships with many of the Home Care Aides at A-Plus over the years. She is very grateful for the many clients and their families that have been cared for during her time with the company. In her free time, she loves spending time with her family, especially her 2 grandchildren who she’s very proud of.

Justene Fester
Staffing Manager
My journey in healthcare began at a young age. When I was fifteen, I started my healthcare experience working for A-Plus in Home Care, as well as volunteering in the Fresno and Clovis community. I found fulfillment in providing compassionate care, empathy and emotional support to those in need. My volunteer experiences have taught me that even small acts of kindness can have profound impact on others. When I graduated high school, I attended Fresno city College where I studied animal science and business management. As I Continued my education, I sought out opportunities to connect with the elderly in various settings. Whether it was through volunteering at senior centers, assisted living homes, organizing social events, or simply stopping by for a chat. I made it my mission to brighten their days and make them feel valued and loved. I have a genuine love for helping others and providing excellent customer service.
Chrissy Sotelo
Administrative Manager

Chrissy Sotelo was born in Dinuba and raised in Fresno, California. She comes from a single parent household with six siblings. There was never a dull moment in her household. Since the age of 10, Chrissy helped her mom care for her siblings and grandparents. Chrissy has a loving husband and four children.

Chrissy’s father-in-law Jose was diagnosed with stage four prostate cancer back in 2018. Shortly after, their family decided that Chrissy would be his caregiver. Caring for Jose was tough, but it brought her great joy. Jose passed away in April of 2021. Chrissy decided that she had found her calling and began working at Bethel Lutheran Home in Selma. She did care for a private client as well. Chrissy became part of the A-Plus In Home Care family in October, 2023.

Jake Lee Recruiting and Onboarding Administrator
Jake Lee
Recruiting and Onboarding Administrator

Jake Lee is a Kentucky native with a passion for supporting the healthcare system. Jake shines when he’s able to help implement internal processing systems, in order to cultivate the best experience for clients and staff. He enjoys a challenge, and is energized by giving back to the community.

Katie Donovan Staffing Manager
Katie Donovan
HR Manager

Katie Donovan joined the A-Plus In Home Care team in 2020, starting as a Staffing Manager and then moving into the role of HR Manager. Katie has worked in various areas of the Human Services/Health Care field for nearly 10 years, including care providing, behavior therapy, case management, recruiting and scheduling/staffing. Katie enjoys working with people, and is committed to hiring the best caregivers possible for our clients.

Wamuiru DeVoe
Staffing Manager

Wamuiru DeVoe has been with Home Care Professionals since 2020, but has been a part of the medical industry as a Staffing Manager for over 16 years. Wamuiru has an impressive track record of solidifying high profile clients, generating revenue, and retaining superior medical and non-medical professional talent in the healthcare staffing industry. She feels the passion, talent and dedication within our exceptional team are incomparable. The core value of our extraordinary internal culture resonates to attract premier opportunities and exceptional talent which has a powerful positive impact on healthcare. Wamuiru loves spending time with her family and friends in her off time.

Chrissy Tuma

Chrissy graduated with her B.S. in Accounting from Santa Clara University. She has 25 years of accounting experience, working with companies of all sizes among a broad scope of industries. Before joining A-Plus In Home Care in 2017, she worked with several special needs children both privately and in therapy settings. She loves working with clients, their families, and caregivers to provide understanding and support.

Gail Wiselogel
Marketing Liaison

Gail was born and raised in the South Bay Area and has lived in Sacramento since attending California State University of Sacramento.
When Gail graduated CSUS, she was the only one in the Gerontology graduating class who was declared a Gerontology Major upon admission her freshman year. Gail received a Bachelor of Science in Gerontology in 2016 and has been working with the older adult population since 2013. Inspired by her family, grandparents, and the want to help others, a customer service-focused career serving older adults is Gail’s life passion.
Gail’s hands-on expertise in Gerontology has come from working as a caregiver, in oncology, care management, hospice volunteer, caregiver resources, Activity Director for Assisted Living and Memory care facilities, and Volunteer Coordinator for Hospice.

Fun fact about Gail, her first job growing up was in member services and as ‘Gil the Garlic Guy’ Mascot at Gilroy Gardens Theme Park in Gilroy California.

Steve Cummins
Director of Client Services

In 1996 I started my career as a territory / account manager with a high end carpet manufacturer, calling on flooring retailers, design firms, contractors and hospitality clients. Soon after, I started my own independent agency distributing unique and beautiful rugs, carpets and wood floors on the wholesale level. This career taught me how to present products, service accounts, manage projects, build relationships, and positively react to or even prevent issues that arise in these projects. In 2019 I decided to pursue a career in home care as have always enjoyed working with people. I have felt very comfortable working with our industry partners and potential families that we care for, and also enjoy the great team that A-Plus In Home Care has put together.

Domenick Clement
Director of Client Services

I was raised in the East Bay Area and have a Bachelors of Science from Chico State in Public Health and Community Services. I joined this company to make a positive impact and give back to the communities and families across the San Francisco Bay Area.

Paula Campbell
Staffing Manager
Paula Campbell is a Staffing Manager with HomeCare Professional’s East Bay Office.  She has 25+ years’ experience working in the health care industry. She has managed skilled as well as non-skilled home care companies.  Campbell has a genuine love for helping others and is committed to providing excellent customer service. She is positive, cheerful, inspiring and has an optimistic personality.

 

Campbell has an Associate’s Degree in Business Administration and Accounting.

 
Mari Refundo
Administrator

Mari Refundo has worked as a Staffing Manager for the last 20 years. She started in HCP Daly City when it opened in March 2005.  Prior to HCP, she worked with another agency and Andy Howard was her Director.

Refundo is very much a people person and she doesn’t hesitate to lend a helping hand when needed. She also sees herself being in HCP for a very long time.

Michael-Conn-Recruiter
Michael Conn
Recruiter
Michael Conn is the Recruiter with A-Plus In Home Care, where he interviews, schedules and coordinates candidate experiences across our three Bay Area locations. This is his second stint recruiting in health care, having previously worked with company President Don Franks in the ABA industry. Conn truly enjoys working in home care, and is dedicated to helping our clients find the best caregivers they can through his hiring efforts. Outside of the office, you can find Conn training for his next marathon and exploring the Sierras.
Margaret Arucan-Ligunas
Margaret Arucan-Ligunas
Staffing Manager

Margaret Arucan-Liguans has been with the HCP Daly City office since June 2008. She started out as a Homecare Aide and she was very well loved by her clients. For the last 3 years, she has been doing administrative work as an Assistant Staffing Manager, and this year she has been officially our new Payroll Manager.

Mae Ajel
Mae Ajel
Staffing Manager
Mae V. Ajel graduated from Far Eastern University, Manila, Philippines with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science. Right after graduation she worked as a Customer Service Representative and later as an Associate College Instructor. Her ability to deal with people motivated her to try her chance in the Corporate World and luckily she landed a career in HR field for a decade. While as such HR, she handled major functions among others, as Recruitment and Selection, Orientation, Maintaining Good Working Conditions, Managing Employee Relations and Training and Development. Mae V. Ajel has strong interpersonal skills, has the ability to display objectivity and tact, approachable and reasonable with employees, has good leadership skills and has the charm to motivate and negotiate with people. Mae V. Ajel’s outgoing personality is greatly influenced by her close-knit family members who are not only work-oriented but also sports-minded since their younger years, like sports such as basketball, volleyball, table and lawn tennis.
Bernard-Gacuya-Staffing-Manager-300x300
Bernard Gacuya
Staffing Manager
Prior to A-Plus In Home Care, Bernard Gacuya had been a Director of Human Resources at Mission Villa in San Jose. He has a wide range of experiences in human resources development and variety of settings, which includes community based organization providing services for the elderly. He ensured that Caregivers comprehend and implement the care plan generated by the Case Nurse. He provided training and orientation for the Caregivers before they start to ensure optimal performance. Along with care management, He has experience in staffing, coordinating, recruiting, and marketing. While at Belmont Village of Sunnyvale as a Human Resources Manager, He developed professional warm relationships and open communication to establish goals and a care plan that can alleviate many of the challenges faced in complex care situations as he promotes integrity and trust between clients and caregivers. Furthermore, he supervised staff that provided direct care to clients, ensuring they were treated with respect and dignity. Nevertheless, due to the evolving and complex health care environment, Gacuya expanded his professional horizon and knowledge at VITAS Innovative Hospice Care in Fremont as a Patient Care Analyst and Human Relation. Gacuya earned his Dual B.S. Degree in Business Management and Accounting from San Beda College Philippines, and pursued in Human Resources at Santa Clara University after his 2 years term in US Navy as PN3. Outside of the healthcare industry, Bernard is a globetrotter and active into fitness community.
Elizabeth Malick
Elizabeth Malick
Director of Client Services
I have worked in home care for three years plus I have a background in hospice and healthcare for over 20 years. I am passionate about senior care with an emphasis on comfort and grace while aging in place.
Tyler Morch
Tyler Morch
Vice President of Marketing and Sales

Tyler was born and raised in San Jose, CA.  He has a long history in the Bay Area and is connected to the community and his local Church. He is committed to providing the best possible care for his clients and engages each and everybody with respect and compassion.  Tyler has enjoyed working in the medical community throughout the Greater Bay Area for nearly 20 years.  He began with O2 and DME in the year 2000, working closely with hospital and physician offices to ensure client satisfaction.  Tyler then worked with an assisted living residence in a sales capacity and enjoyed connecting with the residents and their families.  From there, he was given an opportunity with a local homecare agency where he truly found his calling and feels blessed with a position that’s mutually satisfying for him and the people he organizes care for every day.  He works hard to provide the answers for personal care needs through A-Plus In Home Care and other trusted resources for additional services.

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