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A Home Instead caregiver and an elderly woman prepare a meal together in a sunny kitchen, symbolizing teamwork and independence in home care.

Meet Our Team

We believe every family in the area deserves tailor made in-home senior care with a compassionate touch. That's why we established Home Instead® of Elkhart, IN.

Proudly Serving Aging Adults & Their Families

Our Promise

As a locally owned business, our team offers friendly, responsive service right in your neighborhood. Families love our team because we:
  • Do what we say we’re going to do – each and every time
  • Solve care problems using compassionate, person-centered solutions
  • Engage in thoughtful relationships with the families we serve
  • Give back to our community
About Us
Meet Our Team
Eric and Angela

Eric and Angela Thomas, Owners

Eric and Angela Thomas bring over 25 years of heartfelt dedication to senior care as co-owners of three Home Instead franchises in Northern Indiana. Their journey is driven by a shared passion for enhancing the lives of older adults through compassionate, personalized care.

Eric holds an MBA from St. Ambrose University and a BA in Business Administration from The University of Northern Iowa. Since joining Home Instead in 2015, Eric has been a visionary leader, drawing on his experience as President & CEO at Stonehill Franciscan Services in Dubuque, IA. There, he led campus expansions, successful fundraising efforts, and strategic growth initiatives, all of which reflect his commitment to improving the lives of those he serves.

Angela, with a BA in Elementary Education from The University of Northern Iowa, is an integral partner in managing their franchises. Her background as a Youth Minister highlights her dedication to fostering community connections and guiding others in meaningful service. She remains actively involved in local initiatives, including Montessori schools and their parish, St. Pius X Church.

The Thomas family relocated from Iowa to Indiana while their children were still in school. During this transition, Eric led the business while Angela focused on family life until their move was complete. Later, Angela’s mother and grandmother moved in with them, bringing new joy and purpose to their home as empty nesters.

Outside of their work, Eric and Angela treasure time spent with their five children, two (soon to be three!) grandchildren, and two dogs. Whether quilting, reading, enjoying outdoor activities, or sharing in early morning basketball games, they embody the values they bring to their business: connection, vitality, and care.

Their hands-on leadership ensures Home Instead delivers exceptional care with warmth, honesty, and respect, making a meaningful difference in the aging journey of every client they serve.

Emily

Emily Wilson, Home Care Consultant

Emily joined Home Instead in June 2017 after earning her B.S. in Health and Human Science from Bridgewater College. Starting as a Quality Assurance Coordinator, she now serves as a Home Care Consultant, connecting families with personalized solutions to navigate the aging journey.

Her passion for senior care is deeply personal, rooted in helping her grandparents age in place with dignity. This experience drives her commitment to making the process smoother and more attainable for others.

Emily has led key initiatives, including securing credentialing with Managed Care Entities, obtaining her Indiana Medicaid Navigator license, and simplifying long-term care insurance for families. She also volunteers with the Alzheimer’s Association, advocating for better support for those affected by the disease.

At home, Emily and her husband foster rescue animals and share their lives with a lively group of pets. Always active in the community, Emily is dedicated to being a trusted resource for families.

April

April Merritt, Client Care Coordinator

April began her journey with Home Instead as a Caregiver in 2013 and became the Quality Assurance Coordinator in our Mishawaka office in 2017. Her dedication to improving clients' lives shines through in her daily Quality Assurance visits, where she ensures stability and addresses concerns with care and attention.

At home, April is the primary caregiver for her mother and a devoted parent to her preteen son, bringing a personal understanding of caregiving to her role. She and her husband are active members of Living Stones Church, reflecting their deep commitment to their community.

April’s passion for connection and her embodiment of our motto, "To us, it's personal," make her an invaluable part of the Home Instead team.

Angel

Angel Davidsen, Client Care Coordinator

Angel joined Home Instead as a Caregiver while balancing a full-time factory job, bringing her strong work ethic and compassionate heart to every client she serves. Inspired by cherished memories with her grandparents, Angel’s caregiving journey began when she cared for her grandmother, ensuring she could remain at home until her passing at age 95.

Angel has always been dedicated to supporting seniors, from volunteering at nursing homes—where she sang, talked, and brought her kids to visit—to treating her clients like family. She’s proud of her five children, three of whom are in the healthcare field, and loves helping clients and their families navigate the aging journey with care and respect.

JADE

Jade Brumitt, Client Care Coordinator

Jade graduated Indiana University with a Bachelor Degree in Long Term Health Care Management, Human Resources Management, and an Associates Degree in Nutrition.   Jade is passionate about health and wellness. She currently also works at Logan Center; helping special needs achieve their goals and live a more normalized life, and teaching workout classes such as cardio drumming, cardio toning, and kickboxing/HIIT at the Battell Center and Definition Gym. Jade has over 10 years' experience in the health care field and specializes in client care and engagement. 
 
At home, Jade and her fiancé  love fostering rescue animals and sharing their lives with their pets. They love volunteering, canoeing, hiking, and camping. 
DESTINY

Destiny Miller, Client Care Coordinator

Destiny is a Licensed Practical Nurse with a background in community and senior care. Known for her compassionate nature and dependable support, she is dedicated to helping older adults live safely and comfortably at home. Outside of work, Destiny stays busy as a proud mom to her daughter, bringing the same warmth and care she shows at home to every client she serves.

Justin

Justin Hammen, Billing & Payroll Manager

Since 2020, Justin has been the Billing and Payroll Manager at Home Instead, where he excels at engaging with people and enjoying lighthearted conversations. Originally hailing from Iowa, he has embraced the charm of Michigan country living, trading cornfields for a new landscape he fully appreciates. When he's not managing the business finances, Justin spends his free time immersed in nature, whether he's fishing by the river, teaching his kids how to appreciate the land, or quietly waiting in a deer stand. His passion for the outdoors is matched only by his love for cooking, especially when it comes to using his meat smoker to prepare the game he hunts.

With a soul that resonates with classic rock and roll, Justin often finds joy in listening to the legendary bands of the past, which you can enjoy any time you walk past his desk. Family is at the heart of his life; he shares his home with a supportive wife and two lively children, all of whom are kept entertained by Benny, their playful dog with a knack for stealing attention. Their country lifestyle is further animated by a lively assortment of goats and chickens, making for a vibrant and fulfilling life.

Leisha

Leisha Long, Recruitment & Engagement Coordinator

Originally from California, Leisha has spent 15 of the past 20 years calling Northern Indiana home. Her professional journey began in Corporate Collections and Accounts Payable, followed by roles in Business-to-Business Telemarketing and sales support for a high-tech company in Silicon Valley. She later worked with a robotic control company in Richmond, CA, before transitioning to a focus on Recruiting and Human Resources after relocating to Indiana.

Helping people has become Leisha's true passion, and she finds immense fulfillment in connecting individuals with opportunities that make a difference in their lives. This role allows her to blend her professional expertise with her love for fostering meaningful relationships.

Outside of work, Leisha enjoys diving into creative pursuits like quilting, knitting, crocheting, cooking, and reading. These hobbies bring balance and inspiration to her life, just as she strives to bring to those she serves.

NICK

Nick Thomas, Care Pro Engagement Coordinator

With a deep appreciation for family and community, Nick brings both personal passion and professional experience to his role at Home Instead. As a proud father of four daughters, he understands firsthand the importance of compassionate, dependable care for loved ones. Family is at the heart of everything he does—whether it’s supporting clients, mentoring staff, or cheering from the stands at one of many hockey games that fill his family's schedule.

Nick has a strong background in business leadership, operations, and wellness, which allows him to approach care services with both heart and strategy. He’s passionate about helping people live healthier, more fulfilling lives—whether through thoughtful care planning or advocating for health and wellness in everyday life.

Drawn to water and warm weather, Nick finds peace and energy in the outdoors. He believes that balance, integrity, and empathy are at the core of any great business, and he brings those values into the culture at Home Instead every day.

Celine

Celine Viscaya, Recruitment Coordinator

Celine, a Psychology major, has a strong background in healthcare recruitment, with five years of experience placing travel nurses across the United States. Her passion for the healthcare industry lies in her ability to connect caregivers with clients, ensuring families receive the care and support they need. She takes pride in bridging gaps in care and creating meaningful solutions that make a difference in people’s lives.

Celine’s dedication to building relationships and understanding individual needs aligns perfectly with Home Instead’s mission of delivering personalized and compassionate care. Her enthusiasm for helping others is matched by her drive to bring talented caregivers and families together.

Outside of work, Celine enjoys exploring new destinations, playing video games, and spending time with her toy poodle and Persian cats, who bring her endless joy. She is committed to fostering connections that enhance both lives and communities.

SandiK

Sandi Knight, Recruitment Coordinator

Meet Sandi, a compassionate caregiver turned HR Manager at Home Instead. With an Associate's Degree as a Medical Assistant under her belt and experience as a Safety Director for a leading automotive company in Michigan, she joined our team with a wealth of knowledge. Quickly transitioning from caregiver to training new professionals, she's now our go-to for Quality Assurance and HR matters. When she's not helping make our workplace better, she's cheering on her favourite football team or crafting beautiful pieces of jewelry. And let's not forget about her four beloved pets – two German Shepherds and a duo of cats! She's passionate about working alongside her fellow Care Professionals, always looking for ways to enhance their important work.

Denise

Denise Brenneman, Training Coordinator

Her passion for caregiving and her extensive experience make her an invaluable asset to the Home Instead team. Denise's warm and nurturing nature helps create a supportive environment for new trainees, ensuring they feel confident and well-prepared for their roles. Her love for teaching is evident as she eagerly shares her wealth of knowledge and practical insights, helping others find fulfillment in their caregiving careers.

Outside of her professional life, Denise cherishes the moments spent exploring the great outdoors with her family and furry companions. Whether it's setting up a tent under the stars, trekking through scenic trails, or simply enjoying a leisurely walk in the park, these activities bring her immense joy and relaxation. Her vibrant energy and zest for life inspire those around her, making Denise not only a mentor but also a cherished friend to many.

Melisa

Melisa Fulkerson, Scheduling Coordinator/On Call Coordinator

Melisa's unwavering commitment and unrivaled expertise have been a true gift to our team. Her ability to effortlessly balance various roles is nothing short of extraordinary. Her heart-led approach and knack for problem-solving ensure that both our clients and Care Professionals feel seen and supported. Her pursuit of excellence, coupled with her warm and inviting nature, makes her an indispensable part of our community. We are profoundly grateful for her leadership and fervor, and eagerly anticipate the continued impact of her invaluable contributions.

In her previous role as a client care coordinator, Melisa gained invaluable experience working closely with families and care professionals, which significantly enhanced her understanding of individual needs and preferences. This hands-on interaction allowed her to develop a keen sense of empathy and insight into the dynamics of care relationships. She learned to navigate complex situations with ease, ensuring that the right matches were made for each family and client. Her ability to foster trust and open communication has not only strengthened her relationships with clients but has also enriched her capacity to create tailored solutions that truly resonate with those she serves.

Coreyanne

Coreyanne Tankersley, Service Coordinator

Corey joined the Home Instead team in November 2024, bringing with her a wealth of experience in caregiving, nursing, and sales. Her deep appreciation for the aging process drives her commitment to supporting seniors and their families. With a degree from Western Michigan University and a genuine passion for service, Corey is dedicated to making a positive impact every day.

She believes that personal connection is essential for effective senior care. By blending behavioral, cognitive, and emotional insights, Corey creates meaningful experiences tailored to individual needs. As a Service Coordinator, she excels in matching Care Pros with families, addressing companionship concerns, and fostering relationships that enhance the lives of seniors.

Outside of work, Corey enjoys spending time with her son, exploring music and art, and cherishing her love for lakes and the outdoors, particularly her fond memories of Camp Eberhart. A fiction writer and devoted dog lover, she brings creativity and commitment to her role at Home Instead. Corey's thoughtful approach and dedication reflect the core values of compassion, innovation, and trust that define the organization.

Sarah

Sarah Kruk, Service Coordinator

Sarah is an essential part of our scheduling team, bringing a keen eye for detail, a compassionate heart, and a commitment to ensuring seamless care for our clients. Her ability to juggle ever-changing schedules while maintaining a warm and supportive approach makes her an invaluable asset to both our Care Professionals and the families we serve. With a dedication to problem-solving and a deep understanding of the importance of personalized care, Sarah plays a vital role in making meaningful connections and ensuring every shift is covered with the right fit. We’re so grateful for her hard work, dedication, and the positive energy she brings to Home Instead every day!

Gabe

Gabe Thomas, Elkhart Office Coordinator

Meet Gabe, a dedicated member of the Home Instead family who started his journey with us right after earning his degree from Southwestern Michigan College. Gabe has worn many hats over the years, from yardwork to administrative tasks, and now plays a pivotal role in our Elkhart office where he brings new caregivers into our family. Outside of work, he treasures his time in Niles, Michigan, where he lives with his wife Meghan and their dog Mowgli. Gabe is an avid reader, movie enthusiast, pickleball player, and outdoor walker who never misses a game of his favorite sports teams.

Cydney

Cydney Baumann, Kendallville Office Coordinator

Cydney's compassionate nature and keen organizational skills have earned her the respect and admiration of both her colleagues and the families she serves. Her approach to caregiving emphasizes empathy, patience, and a deep commitment to enhancing the quality of life for seniors. In her role as Office Manager, she not only ensures that the daily operations run smoothly but also fosters a supportive and positive environment for her team. Cydney believes in continuous learning and often participates in workshops and seminars to stay updated with the latest in elder care practices. Her dedication goes beyond the office walls, as she often volunteers in community events aimed at raising awareness and improving resources for the elderly. Cydney's contributions are invaluable, and her passion for making a difference truly shines through in every aspect of her work.

Our Team

Your Home Instead team in Elkhart, IN possesses a heartfelt desire to work with seniors in the community. It is our ultimate goal to forge extraordinary relationships between our clients and their Care Professionals.

When you are ready for help, our caring staff is on call to quickly answer your questions and accommodate your senior services needs.

A Home Instead caregiver kneels to help an elderly man tie his shoes in a cozy living room, highlighting patient and personalized care for daily tasks.

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