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About Me

Jo Kemppainen

Hello! My name is Joanne Kemppainen. I grew up in Ancaster and now reside in Dundas with my husband, our two daughters, and three cats. I hold an Honours Bachelor Degree in Gerontology from McMaster University. My work in social engagement began in the early 2000s, when I wrote my university thesis on social isolation. Through this research, I saw firsthand how regular, intentional social visits could significantly and exponentially improve a person’s social engagement and quality of life.

Currently, I am a Program Assistant for an Adult Day Program, where I find great joy in working with individuals, focusing on their unique needs and interests. Over the years, I have been assisting friends and neighbours with various tasks, which inspired me to start this business. Through conversations with neighbours, caregivers, family, and friends, I realized the need for reliable support in our busy lives.

As a Girl Guide leader in the community, I cherish working with people of all ages, including but not limited to elderly adults. I pride myself on being honest and dependable, treating all my clients like family. Thank you for considering me to assist your loved ones.

Services

Errands

  • Groceries & Shopping (with or without client). (Or I can help set them up to place their orders online with Instacart, Walmart, or PC express etc.)
  • Assistance attending medical appointments
  • Anything they/you would like completed (ususally around the home)

Chores

  • Food preparation
  • Light cleaning, washing dishes etc.
  • Washing & Folding Laundry (my house is an option)
  • Pet care such as walking dogs, cleaning cat litter etc.

Healthy Living

  • Whatever the client would like; hikes, walks, chair exercises, other exercises recommended by a professional etc. Or perhaps just a social visit, with tea or coffee of course.
  • Wellness checks - if you live out of town, or you’re just out of town on a well-deserved vacation (or for work), call me 24/7 to check on your loved one.

Other services

Some examples of projects I have helped clients with are: putting together furniture, installing bed rails, baking, crafting (crocheting brings me a lot of joy), decluttering and cleaning around the house & helping people connect with family/friends using technology. This past season, I helped one client with her Christmas shopping and posting cards. As well, I have helped people to recognize potential scams which then helps them to further protect themselves from fraud ensuring their safety and well-being.

Testimonial

“Our family was so fortunate to meet Jo who has helped us in so many ways to support the growing needs of our 95 year old father. Her compassion and thoughtfulness in providing companionship, encouragement and support for special occasions has been so very helpful. She is resourceful, efficient and has always been there when we needed her. We would highly recommend her services.” ~ Sheila C.

Qualifications

Education and Training

  • Bachelor of Social Science in Gerontology (McMaster University)
  • GPA Trained (Gentle Persuasive Approach)
  • Dementiability Certificate (Obtained October 2024)

Professional Experience

  • Inter-disciplinary Team Member at the Elders’ Clinic, Unity Health Toronto (formerly St. Michael’s Hospital)
  • Over 3 Years of Experience working with clients in an Adult Day Program in Dundas
    • Leading exercise classes with accommodations for visual, hearing, and cognitive impairments
    • Conducting one-on-one Montessori activities with clients

Certifications and Checks

  • Recent Police Check (August 2024)
  • Valid First Aid/CPR Certificate

While I am not a qualified PSW, I work closely with PSWs and have extensive experience assisting clients who require support.

Frequently Asked Questions...

I just really need someone to do menial tasks in my parent’s home, like doing many dishes as well as organizing and cleaning items and listing them to sell. Can you help with that?

Yes, of course 😁

My mom just really needs someone to sit with her and have tea & conversation. Would you consider a lower rate?

Yes, if it is a recurring meeting for us. Please send me a message.

Can you change bandages for my loved one?

No, I cannot as I am not a qualified nurse. But I can help make phone calls to coordinate a nurse to come over, or I can drive them to the Hospital or a doctors office.

If my loved one needs support toileting or getting dressed, can you help?

I am not a qualified PSW however, I work closely with several wonderful PSWs and can connect you with someone qualified. That said, I treat every client like family, and if a situation arises where someone needs a hand while I’m there, of course I’ll help in a safe and respectful way. My goal is always to support your loved one with dignity and care - within the scope of what I’m trained and insured to do.

Pricing

All services are priced at $40 - $50/hour depending on the service (HST Included), minimum 2 hours. No extra charge for mileage under 20km.

Contact

 416-271-6748

 mail@jo-on-the-go.ca

 instagram.com/jo_on_the_go_dundas

Fully Insured & Proudly Canadian 🇨🇦