| The Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce is pleased to welcome FirstLight Home Care of Sylvania–Perrysburg, established in our region on October 20, 2025 and led by Owner Brian Epstein. With 11 employees and growing, the company is quickly making its mark by providing compassionate, personalized in-home care to individuals and families across Northwest Ohio. Let’s learn more about them. |
A franchise of the nationally recognized FirstLight Home Care network, the Sylvania–Perrysburg office provides non-medical in-home care that helps adults live with dignity and independence in the comfort of their homes. Their service area stretches across the Toledo Region—including Sylvania, Perrysburg, Maumee, Ottawa Hills, Rossford, Waterville, Whitehouse, Monclova, and surrounding communities.
FirstLight Home Care was founded in 2009 and is headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio. Today, the brand operates more than 300 franchise locations across 39 states, employs over 8,000 caregivers, and serves more than 15,900 clients and 3,000 veterans each year, delivering more than 580,000 hours of care monthly.
What They Do: Comprehensive In-Home Care Solutions
FirstLight Home Care offers a full continuum of non-medical services for seniors, adults with disabilities, individuals recovering from illness or surgery, and families managing long-term care needs. All care plans are personalized to match each client’s physical needs, personality, and life goals.
Their offerings include:
- Companion Care – Social connection, transportation, and help with daily household tasks.
- Personal Care – Assistance with hygiene, mobility, bathing, and dressing.
- Dementia & Alzheimer’s Care – Skilled engagement and supervision for clients with memory challenges.
- Respite Care – Relief for family caregivers who need time to rest or manage personal obligations.
- Rehabilitation & Recovery Care – Support for transitioning home after surgery or hospitalization.
- Hospice Support – Compassionate assistance for families navigating end-of-life care.
- Veteran Care – Tailored support and guidance navigating VA benefits.
Inside the FirstLight Culture
FirstLight Home Care centers its work on a powerful vision: a world where all adults can age with comfort, dignity, and independence at home.
Their mission is simple and heartfelt: to help people have their best day, every day.
The organization is built on a Culture of Care, shaped by five core principles:
- Focus on Relationships First: Care begins with genuine human connection. FirstLight encourages its caregivers to build meaningful, lasting bonds with clients and their families.
- Act with Integrity: Trust and transparency guide every interaction. The team commits to doing exactly what they say they will do—every time.
- Give Joy: From gratitude to positivity, the team embraces the power of bringing joy to daily routines and interactions.
- Grow Together: Collaboration and curiosity fuel their continuous improvement and innovation.
- Make a Difference Every Day: Every caregiver embraces the opportunity to improve someone’s quality of life, one day at a time.
An Interesting Fact: Why Home Care Matters Now More Than Ever
Northwest Ohio mirrors the national trend of a rapidly aging population:
- 54 million Americans are currently 65 or older—expected to reach 95 million by 2060.
- By 2030, 1 in 5 Americans will be of retirement age.
- 87% of seniors want to age in place at home.
- The U.S. home care market is projected to grow from $250 billion (2023) to $383 billion by 2028, at an annual growth rate above 8%.
- With assisted living averaging $5,500+ per month, home care offers a more affordable, flexible, and personalized solution.
As Brian notes, “We cannot forget about those in the last one-third of their life stage.”
What Motivates the Team
“Helping our clients and caregivers live their best day every day,” says Brian. “We’re providing for those in need while also investing in our caregivers. It is wonderful serving others.”
Challenges They’re Working to Solve
Like many in the care industry, FirstLight is focused on:
- Recruiting and retaining compassionate caregivers
- Expanding their client base as a new startup
- Continuing to establish their brand and build trust in the community
Life in the Toledo Region
When he’s not working, you can often find Brian spending time with his wife, family, and friends—often at local favorites like Toledo Pickle and other popular spots around town.
Big-Picture Insights & Advice For New Business Owners
“Use the resources available in the region to support your business plan and projections. The Chamber, SBDC, RGP, Port Authority, UT, BGSU, Library and many others are here to assist. Stay the course, treat others well and you will be successful.”
Trends in the Industry
The demand for in-home care is surging nationwide as seniors increasingly choose to age at home.
Advice for Emerging Talent
“Compassion and servant leadership are key. Also, remember to take time for yourself—this field can be emotionally demanding.”
Organizations They Support
Brian and the FirstLight team are passionate supporters of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Toledo, the Alzheimer’s Association, and Blood Cancer United.
We are excited to welcome FirstLight Home Care of Sylvania–Perrysburg to the Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce and look forward to supporting their growth as they make a meaningful difference in the lives of families across our region.
RSS Feed