In the world of franchising, success goes beyond financial investments and market opportunities. It’s deeply shaped by the culture and community that a franchise system fosters. One great example of this is FOFO® (Family of Franchise Owners) at Assisting Hands® Home Care. This culture, led by CEO Lane Kofoed, has helped redefine the franchise model, setting a high bar for growth, support, and collaboration within the home care industry. The FOFO has become a key pillar not only in the company’s success but also in the growth and well-being of its franchisees.
At its core, the FOFO is about more than just business; it’s about creating a close-knit community of franchisees. It emphasizes relationships, mutual support, and collective success. In many franchising models, owners often work in isolation, but the FOFO fosters an environment where collaboration thrives. Franchise owners at Assisting Hands work together, sharing resources, solving problems, and helping each other succeed. Lane Kofoed has cultivated a culture which is embraced and supported by the entire Assisting Hands National Support Team, that goes beyond professional connections and fosters a genuine sense of belonging among the franchisees.
One of the key advantages of the FOFO is the shift from competition to collaboration. Many franchisors create environments where franchisees compete against each other, but the FOFO encourages franchisees to pool their knowledge and experience. For example, a new franchise owner can quickly gain insights from veteran franchisees, learning from their successes and avoiding their mistakes. This creates a fast-track learning environment, leading to greater operational efficiency and, ultimately, better business results across the entire network.
Another significant benefit of the FOFO is the emotional and professional support that comes with being part of a family-like community. Growing a franchise can be challenging, with hurdles ranging from staffing issues to marketing efforts. “At Assisting Hands, being part of the FOFO means more than just professional support; it creates a tight-knit community that fosters emotional well-being. This sense of belonging not only reduces isolation but also empowers us to grow together, both personally and professionally,” said Andrew Dahle, COO. He added that in a FOFO culture, franchise owners don’t face these challenges alone; they have access to a network of peers who offer advice, encouragement, and practical solutions. This sense of community helps alleviate the isolation that entrepreneurs often experience, allowing them to remain motivated and confident even during tough times.
This culture also promotes continuous learning and innovation. When franchisees are part of a supportive network like the FOFO, knowledge spreads more freely. Whether it’s discovering new technologies in home care, refining operational processes, or tapping into new revenue streams, the exchange of ideas benefits everyone. In an industry as dynamic as home care, staying ahead of trends and adopting new practices is crucial, and the FOFO helps franchisees do just that, making them more competitive and better equipped to serve their clients.
Work-life balance is a fundamental cornerstone of the FOFO culture at Assisting Hands. The organization places a strong emphasis on family values, which resonates deeply in how franchisees approach their businesses. Recognizing the demands of entrepreneurship, franchise owners are actively encouraged to prioritize their personal lives alongside their professional responsibilities. This commitment to balance fosters a supportive environment where franchisees can thrive without sacrificing their family time or personal well-being.
The FOFO has also proven to be a powerful driver of growth. The culture encourages franchisees to aim higher, knowing they have the backing of a strong community to help them succeed. As one franchise grows, the entire network benefits, creating a ripple effect that elevates the brand as a whole. Franchisees not only grow their businesses but also become ambassadors for the company, further boosting the reputation and reach of Assisting Hands.
At the heart of the FOFO is a shared mission to provide compassionate, high-quality care to clients. This unified purpose not only strengthens the Assisting Hands brand but also helps franchisees attract employees and clients who connect with the company’s values. When franchisees operate with a shared vision, the entire system becomes more robust and effective.
The FOFO is much more than just a catchy term—it’s the foundation of a culture that sets Assisting Hands apart from other franchise models. By fostering collaboration, providing emotional and professional support, encouraging continuous learning, and maintaining a focus on family values, the FOFO creates an environment where franchisees can truly thrive. This family-like culture will continue to be a cornerstone of the company’s success, offering franchisees the community and resources they need to grow and succeed in the ever-evolving home care industry.
