PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Philly native Lisa Robinson has been working in the home care business for over 10 years.
“I started working at a home care agency,” she said, “and I really liked the premise of what they were doing, but I wanted to do it my own way.”
As founder and CEO of Wynnefield Heights-based My Independence at Home, Robinson is devoted to providing quality, compassionate service. Not only does she provide home care, she also contributes to the economic growth of her community. Her business employs over 300 people and serves over 250 families.
“I live in the community that I serve and most of my caregivers are from the surrounding community,” she said. “It's nice to be able to give back to the community in that sense, but also be able to care for people who are in my own backyard.”
As a stroke survivor, Robinson knows how it feels to be dependent on others. “I know, personally, the importance of home care and the impact it has on your recovery.”
While her primary commitment is to her clients, Robinson goes above and beyond the call of duty for her community. Last Thanksgiving, she led an effort to feed over 250 families. She also organized healthy aging community events, and provided health screenings and vaccinations for families. One of her favorite events was a senior prom — for seniors.
“A lot of seniors and people with disabilities were very, very isolated. So being able to put on these events for them, that are very much supported by other organizations, is very important to all of us,” she shared.
Sometimes there are very tearful days, Robinson admitted, especially when a client in their care passes on. Still, she remains steadfast and passionate about her calling.
“I think what continues to drive me is seeing the impact that we have on people's lives,” she said. “It's not always about caring for someone who's ill. Sometimes people just need companionship.”
During Black History Month, KYW Newsradio’s GameChangers honors individuals or organizations that have made a significant, positive impact in communities of color in the greater Philadelphia region. View the 2024 honorees here.