Meet The Team | Senior Helpers of South Minneapolis & Surrounding Area
Skip main navigation
Serving Edina and the surrounding areas.
Type Size
Serving Edina and the surrounding areas.
Past main navigation Contact Us

Meet the South Minneapolis & Surrounding Area office

More than 90% of seniors want to be able to age in their own home with dignity but getting the right type of care can seem daunting.  At Senior Helpers of South Minneapolis and Surrounding Area, we believe that getting the best care for your loved ones should not be complicated.  We recognize the growing need for in-home care services, and with our passion for helping others, we are committed to delivering the best possible care to seniors in Bloomington, Eden Prairie, Edina, Hopkins, Minnetonka, Richfield & South Minneapolis area.

We take the opportunity to provide care in your home seriously and make it a priority to provide the highest level of client service possible. We have built an exceptional team of care professionals, each committed to remaining at the forefront of the in-home care industry through our proprietary ongoing training and education programs. You can feel confident that your loved one is in good hands with Senior Helpers.

Our History

Senior Helpers was founded in 2002 by Tony Bonacuse with the help of Peter Ross after their firsthand experience in caring for their respective family members. Tony and Peter identified a need that was not being filled properly by the other companies.  They realized that most seniors would prefer to age in their own home rather than move into an unfamiliar institution.  Unfortunately, the options available to most seniors were very limited.  Most seniors did not have access to well-trained, dependable and accessible in-home care. This was the mission-driven spark that started Senior Helpers. 

The first office opened in Baltimore, Maryland, and quickly developed a reputation for delivering excellent in-home senior care with their well-trained staff of professional caregivers. Based on the success of the Baltimore location, the company began to expand.  Over the past 20 years, the Senior Helpers family has grown to include a network of more than 300 locally owned and operated franchises across the United States. 

At Senior Helpers, South Minneapolis, our goal is to help provide high quality care for our clients and their families. We do this by delivering customized, dependable and cost-effective care. There is no greater responsibility than entrusting someone with the care of a loved one - and we want to earn your confidence to become your trusted partner.

We are committed to providing uncompromising levels of care to all our families.

 

Our process

Our process

The first step in the process is a complimentary, initial in-home care assessment with a Senior Helpers consultant.  This assessment can help you understand the true needs of your loved one, and your options. Together we can discuss their needs, our senior care services and determine what’s best for your entire family.

We will cover:

  • Your family's specific goals
  • Your loved one's daily plan design and schedule
  • Pricing and payment methods
  •  Implementation process
  • Ongoing communication and follow-up plan

Meet the South Minneapolis & Surrounding Area Team

Paul & Laurie

Paul & Laurie

Co-owners

Paul and Laurie Barthol understand the need to find the best caregivers for your loved ones. Through our own experience of caring for elderly parents, along with our 15 years of experience working with in-home caregivers for our son with special needs, we know finding the right type of care can seem daunting. It is from this personal journey that led us to a career with Senior Helpers. We have followed our passion and mission for helping others to make a difference in the lives of seniors.

Tanya & Jeff

Tanya & Jeff

Co-owners

Jeff and Tanya started their Senior Helpers journey in 2020 by opening their first office in their hometown of Fargo, ND. They have spent their careers working in the healthcare industry. Tanya is a Registered Nurse and Jeff is a Pharmacist. They understand the importance of working collaboratively with families to determine personalized care plans to keep loved ones safe and happy at home, reducing hospital admissions and the need for higher cost care.  They are here to be trusted advisors to clients and their families at a time when choices become difficult.

Victoria

Victoria

Community Educator & Care Advisor

Victoria's passion for working with seniors began in her childhood when her grandfather moved in with her family in Des Moines. Her early experience continued as a dietary aide at a nearby assisted living facility during high school. As she pursued her college education, she realized that her true calling was to support and care for seniors, leading her to focus her undergraduate and graduate studies on Housing and Gerontology. With decades of experience working with seniors from diverse backgrounds and care needs, Victoria reflects fondly on the lessons she learned as a 16-year-old dietary aide: the importance of laughter, letting go of what can't be controlled, celebrating small victories, and cherishing every moment.  

*Fun Facts: Outside of her professional life, Victoria enjoys spending time with her husband of 37 years, John, traveling, kayaking on local lakes, and savoring moments with their four adult children. 

Patti

Patti

Community Educator & Care Advisor

Patti's commitment to the senior community spans over three decades, ignited by a deeply personal experience that reshaped her life. After her mother was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's in her early 50s, Patti embraced the dual roles of caregiver and advocate. Through a decade filled with both challenges and triumphs, she dedicated herself to ensuring her mother’s journey was marked by compassion and dignity. With more than 20 years of experience in business development and strategic marketing across both nonprofit and for-profit sectors, Patti has honed her ability to bridge gaps and foster meaningful connections. She views her work as not merely a profession, but a profound honor to support families as they navigate their loved ones' health journeys with empathy and understanding. Patti's unwavering dedication to the senior community reflects her belief in the transformative power of care, collaboration, and the inherent dignity of every individual.

Antonia

Antonia

Business Relationship Manager & VA Intake Specialist

Antonia is a seasoned Business Relationship Manager with over 12 years of invaluable healthcare experience. Originally from Minnesota and raised in Oregon, she has honed her passion for the medical field while collaborating with chiropractors, anesthesiologists, and therapists to ensure optimal patient and client experiences. Antonia's dedication stems from recognizing the crucial demand for quality professionals in the home healthcare sector, acknowledging the significance of maintaining independence for clients at home. At Senior Helpers, she excels in meeting new clients, conducting thorough assessments of their needs, and forging strong networking relationships with referral sources. Antonia's expertise lies in fostering connections and delivering exceptional care solutions tailored to each individual's requirements, ensuring the highest standards of service and support within the healthcare community.

*Fun Facts: Antonia’s perfect day would start with being grateful for waking up and end with cooking a healthy hot dinner. One thing she cannot live without is her little girls. Antonia's favorite inspirational quote is "Opportunities don't happen, you create them" by Gary Vee.

La (La’Shayne)

La (La’Shayne)

Care Team and Client Services Manager

La was born in Anchorage, Alaska, and raised in Minneapolis. With over 15 years of experience in the financial industry, including 8 years in leadership roles, La made a significant transition to healthcare. Initially working part-time as a PCA to assist her mother, this role quickly expanded as she took on additional clients and explored ILS and companionship services. Recognizing her true passion, La left corporate America to become a Staffing Administrator at a Memory Care Facility. Within just 10 months, she advanced to the position of Assistant Director, where she found fulfillment in supporting clients with dementia and Alzheimer's. La is dedicated to helping people from all walks of life and looks forward to bringing her strengths to Senior Helpers.

*Fun Facts: In La’s free time, she enjoys spending time with my family and two sons, traveling, trying new restaurants, tap dancing, and DIY projects.

Ann

Ann

Scheduling Coordinator

My professional journey commenced as a call center agent, where I refined my customer service and communication skills over 5 years. Transitioning into recruitment, my passion for connecting talent with opportunities has driven me for over a decade, including 3 years as a recruitment officer leading a team across diverse industries like BPO, IT, healthcare, ecommerce, and finance technology.  In addition to my career, I am based in the Philippines and a mother of two children, Hana and Zion. Working from home has granted me the invaluable opportunity to witness and support their milestones firsthand.

Ellie

Ellie

Recruiting Manager

Ellie brings over 20 years of diverse professional experience across various industries, complemented by an MBA from the University of Minnesota. She has served on the board of directors for three non-profits dedicated to providing healthcare to underserved communities. With eight years of experience coaching and recruiting at the University of Minnesota’s Carlson School of Management, Ellie excels at identifying candidates who are both highly capable and passionate about their work. Her expertise ensures that our clients receive exceptional care from dedicated professionals. Ellie thrives in collaborative and communicative environments, continuously seeking opportunities for growth and learning. Her extensive background and commitment to excellence make her a valuable asset to our team.

Klea

Klea

Hiring Manager

Klea, a 26-year-old graduate from the serene island province of Bohol in the Philippines, brings a versatile and passionate approach to her professional and personal life. Her diverse background spans from customer service, sales, recruitment, and Human Resources, giving her a comprehensive understanding of business operations and interpersonal dynamics. Outside of work, Klea is an avid outdoor enthusiast, finding joy in climbing mountains, navigating rivers, and relaxing on sandy shores. She is also a devoted fur mom to her beloved golden retriever, Bailey. Combining professional expertise with a deep appreciation for nature's beauty, Klea perfectly balances modernity and timeless charm.

Megan

Megan

HR Onboarding & Marketing Specialist

Megan is a dedicated professional currently pursuing her bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration. With over 8 years of experience in the healthcare industry, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role at Senior Helper, where she joined in February 2022. Megan's passion lies in enhancing the lives of seniors through laughter, attentive listening, and understanding their individual happiness factors. In her current role, she diligently manages employee onboarding, collaborates closely with nurses to assess client needs, and oversees our online marketing efforts. Megan is known for her friendly demeanor, boundless energy, and genuine consideration when interacting with clients and caregivers alike. Her commitment to excellence and compassionate approach makes her an invaluable asset to our team at Senior Helpers.

*Fun Facts: Megan loves to travel, draw, and experience new restaurants.

Deb

Deb

Registered Nurse, RN

Deb is a dedicated nursing professional pursuing her master's degree in nursing after earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Rasmussen University. Her career aspirations focus on empowering seniors to maintain independence at home through holistic health practices, emphasizing the importance of overall health in successful aging. Deb is known for her professionalism, compassion, and sensitivity to patients' diverse and evolving needs. She approaches patient care with deep consideration, striving to enhance quality of life through personalized and empathetic interventions. With a commitment to holistic healthcare and a strong foundation in nursing education, Deb is poised to make a meaningful impact in promoting wellness and independence among senior populations. 

Sophia

Sophia

Registered Nurse, RN

Sophia is a dedicated nursing professional who graduated with an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) from North Hennepin College and is actively pursuing her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). With a focus on aging populations, Sophia is committed to delivering exceptional, personalized care to individuals throughout their life journeys. Her compassion drives her to be a steadfast source of support during significant moments in the lives of her patients. Sophia considers nursing a true calling and strives daily to cultivate trust and empathy in her relationships with patients and their families. She is deeply passionate about providing high-quality attention and care, ensuring that each individual receives the utmost respect and compassion. Sophia's dedication to professional growth and her unwavering commitment to patient well-being make her an invaluable asset to the healthcare community.

*Fun Facts: In Sophia’s free time, she enjoys swimming, traveling, and being with her family!

Karin

Karin

Registered Nurse, RN

Karin is a dedicated nursing professional with an RN degree from Rasmussen University and a BSN from Capella University. As a Certified Foot Care Nurse (CFCN), she specializes in caring for the senior population. Before joining Senior Helpers, Karin gained valuable experience in assisted living and memory care facilities. She currently runs her own business, providing foot care to seniors in their homes, with a mission to help them remain safely in their own residences for as long as possible. Known for her professionalism, compassion, and empathy, Karin cherishes the relationships she builds with her patients and their families. Her commitment to quality care makes her an invaluable asset to our team.

*Fun Facts: In Karin’s free time, she enjoys traveling, scuba diving, and spending time with her son.

Sandra

Sandra

Registered Nurse, RN

Sandra is a registered nurse with over 30 years of experience in the nursing field. She began her career as a licensed practical nurse (LPN) before earning her RN degree from Minneapolis Community College in Minnesota. Sandra has a deep passion for working with seniors, dedicating her efforts to help them maintain their independence and comfort. Her extensive experience includes health coaching and teaching caregivers how to provide exemplary care, enhancing the quality of life for seniors. Sandra has worked in various settings, including assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing facilities, and has assisted seniors with Medicare and insurance issues. Additionally, she has played a key role in staff development and training, mentoring both students and caregivers to ensure high standards of care.

*Fun Facts: In Sandra’s free time, she enjoys spending time with her husband and 2 adult children, swimming, traveling, and reading.


I want to take this opportunity to express our thanks for the superb work Diane did for Dad while he was in the hospital. She was punctual, personable, and dedicated. She helped my Dad immensely during a difficult time for him. Her calm manner and brilliant smile worked magic. My Dad’s attitude changed completely for the better after her first visit. Thank you so much for giving us Diane. She really is a remarkable person and very caring.
 

Areas We Serve

Senior Helpers of South Minneapolis provides a full range of senior home care services for you or your loved one—from companionship and light housework help, to more complex care services, including disease management,  and 24-hour care services.

  • Bloomington
  • Eden Prairie
  • Edina
  • Hopkins
  • Minnetonka
  • Richfield & South Minneapolis