Lane Kofoed, the CEO of Assisting Hands® Home Care, has become a beacon of leadership in the home care industry by fostering a unique culture that transcends typical franchise relationships. His approach is rooted in the concept of the FOFO®, the “Family of Franchise Owners,” which has turned Assisting Hands into more than just a network of franchises—it’s a supportive and inspiring community that feels like a family.
The Birth of FOFO: A Vision of Community
When Lane Kofoed took the helm at Assisting Hands, he recognized that the success of the company would depend not just on sound business practices but also on the strength of the relationships within the organization. Lane’s vision was to create an environment where franchisees felt more like family members than business partners, leading to the development of the FOFO culture.
FOFO stands for “Family of Franchise Owners,” a term that captures the spirit of camaraderie, mutual support, and shared success that Lane has instilled within the organization. Unlike other franchising models where franchisees might feel isolated or in competition with one another, the FOFO fosters a sense of belonging and unity. This culture has become a cornerstone of Assisting Hands’ identity, making it one of the most appealing franchises in the home care industry.
Discovery Day: The FOFO Culture in Action
One of the most tangible expressions of the FOFO culture is experienced by prospective franchisees during Discovery Day, an event held at the National Office in Boise, Idaho. This is where Lane and the National Team provide firsthand experience to the franchise candidates, into the Assisting Hands family. Discovery Day is not just a typical corporate meeting; it’s a deep dive into the heart of what makes Assisting Hands unique.
The event typically includes tours, presentations, and face-to-face interactions with key members of the National team. However, the highlight of Discovery Day is often the visit to Lane Kofoed’s family ranch. Here, prospective franchisees get a firsthand experience of the family-like culture that Lane has cultivated. The ranch, with its warm, welcoming environment, serves as a perfect backdrop for conversations that go beyond business. It’s here that candidates begin to understand what it truly means to be part of the FOFO—where they are treated not just as potential franchise owners but as future members of a close-knit community.
Building a Network of Support and Inspiration
Lane Kofoed’s leadership goes beyond creating a positive atmosphere; it also focuses on building a network where franchisees can thrive together. The FOFO is not just a slogan—it’s a practice that Lane and his team have integrated into every aspect of the business and part of the reason that the FOFO consistently rate their satisfaction with the Assisting Hands brand as highly satisfied. This culture of support manifests in various ways, from the extensive training and resources provided to franchisees, to the ongoing communication and collaboration encouraged among the network.
Franchisees are encouraged to share best practices, celebrate each other’s successes, and offer support during challenging times. This sense of mutual respect and collaboration has led to a thriving network where everyone is invested in the success of the entire group. Under Lane’s guidance, Assisting Hands has grown not just in numbers but in the strength of its community, making it a model for how franchising can be both profitable and personally fulfilling.
Lane Kofoed’s Family Influence: A Bond That Shapes Leadership
Lane’s commitment to fostering a family-like culture at Assisting Hands is deeply influenced by his own strong family bonds. Together with his wife, Tammy, and their six children, Lane enjoys a life full of adventures, with a particular passion for horses. This shared love for horses and outdoor activities has instilled in Lane a deep appreciation for the values of trust, teamwork, and mutual support—values that he has seamlessly integrated into his family and the FOFO culture.
The Kofoed family’s bond is evident in the way they embrace life’s adventures together, whether they are riding horses or simply spending time outdoors. This strong family foundation has shaped Lane’s leadership style, reinforcing the importance of creating a supportive and nurturing environment not only at home but also within the Assisting Hands franchise. It’s this authentic connection to family that allows Lane to relate to his franchisees on a personal level, making the FOFO culture more than just a business philosophy—it’s a way of life.
The Impact of Lane Kofoed’s Leadership
Lane Kofoed’s ability to cultivate a family-like culture within a business context has had a profound impact on Assisting Hands Home Care. The FOFO culture has led to high levels of franchisee satisfaction, low turnover rates, and a strong sense of loyalty among franchise owners. It has also made Assisting Hands an attractive option for entrepreneurs looking to enter the home care industry, knowing they will be supported by a community that cares about their success.
Moreover, the FOFO culture has enhanced the overall reputation of Assisting Hands, positioning it as a leader in both care quality and franchisee support. Lane’s leadership has shown that when franchisees feel like they are part of a family, they are more likely to be engaged, motivated, and successful. This, in turn, translates to better service for clients, which is the goal of any home care provider.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Family and Success
Lane Kofoed’s legacy at Assisting Hands is one of family and success. By prioritizing relationships and creating a culture where franchisees feel supported and valued, he has built a network that is not only successful but also inspiring. The FOFO culture is a testament to Lane’s vision of what franchising can be—a model where business and personal connections intertwine to create something truly special.
As Assisting Hands continues to grow, the FOFO culture will remain at its core, ensuring that every new franchisee who walks through the doors at Discovery Day in Boise becomes part of a family that is dedicated to mutual success and the well-being of those they serve. Lane Kofoed’s leadership, deeply influenced by his strong family bond and passion for life’s adventures, is a shining example of how business can be done with heart, and how a vision of family can lead to extraordinary achievements.
