About Independent Caregiver Services | Northern Michigan's Trusted Elder Care Provider
Founded by Caregivers,
For Families Who Want the Best
Independent Caregiver Services was born from a simple belief: everyone deserves to age with dignity in their own home, surrounded by the comfort of familiar places and cherished memories. We're not a corporate agency - we're your Northern Michigan neighbors, helping neighbors.
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Founded in 2022 by experienced local caregivers
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Serving Leelanau, Grand Traverse, Antrim & Benzie Counties
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Licensed, bonded, and insured
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Calls returned within 15-30 minutes
Meet Joan Bauer-Kohler
Owner & Founder
From Independent Caregiver to Business Owner
I didn't set out to start a business - I became a business owner because families needed us.
For years, I worked as an independent contractor with Sharecare of Leelanau, along with a close-knit group of dedicated caregivers. We loved what we did: building relationships with clients, providing consistent care, and helping families navigate some of life's most challenging transitions.
In 2022, policy changes required Sharecare and Leelanau County Senior Services to only refer to established businesses rather than independent contractors. The families we served had grown to trust us, and we couldn't let them down.
That's when another caregiver and I made the decision to formalize what we were already doing so well - providing compassionate, reliable care that puts relationships first. While my original partner is no longer with the company, the values we established remain the foundation of everything we do.
Every day, I see the difference that consistent, compassionate care makes in people's lives. When Mrs. Johnson can stay in her Traverse City home she's lived in for 40 years because her caregiver Sarah comes three times a week, or when Mr. Peterson's family can sleep peacefully knowing he's safe and cared for in his Leelanau home- that's why I do this work.
When you call Independent Caregiver Services, you're calling me directly. I personally match caregivers to families, and I'm involved in every care plan we create.
This isn't just business for me - it's a calling to serve our Northern Michigan community.
OUR MISSION & VALUES
The Principles That Guide Everything We Do
Our Mission
Providing loving care with integrity and respect through trained, experienced caregivers.
We believe that quality care shouldn't require sacrificing the comfort of home or the consistency of trusted relationships. That's why our caregivers choose their schedules and stick with their clients, building the kind of trust that can only come from time and genuine caring.
Our Core Values
RELATIONSHIPS FIRST
We're not just providing services - we're building connections. Our caregivers become part of your extended family, providing not just assistance but genuine companionship and emotional support.
RELIABILITY YOU CAN COUNT ON
When we say we'll be there, we will be. Our caregivers choose their schedules and commit to them. No daily rotation of strangers, no wondering who's coming to help.
DIGNITY & RESPECT
Every person deserves to be treated with dignity, regardless of their care needs. We approach every interaction with respect for the individual's privacy, preferences, and life experience.
COMPASSIONATE PROFESSIONALISM
We balance warmth and caring with professional expertise. Our caregivers are trained, licensed, and experienced, but they never lose sight of the human element in caregiving.
NORTHERN MICHIGAN ROOTS
This is our community. We understand the values, pace of life, and unique needs of Northern Michigan families. We're not a corporate chain - we're your neighbors.
Professional Standards & Credentials
Licensed and Committed to Excellence
Our Professional Credentials:
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Licensed in the State of Michigan for home care services
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Insured with comprehensive liability coverage
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Background Checked - Every caregiver undergoes thorough screening
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Trained and Certified in CPR, first aid, and specialized care techniques
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Ongoing Education - Regular training updates and skill development
Safety and Quality Assurance:
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Client Safety Protocols - Emergency response plans for every client
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Regular Quality Reviews - Ongoing assessment of care quality and satisfaction
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Family Communication - Regular updates and open communication channels
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Healthcare Coordination - Working with doctors, nurses, and other providers
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Compliance Standards - Meeting all state and local regulations