We all need a helping hand sometimes. Whether new mom, older adult or recovering from surgery, accident or illness, having a caregiver to assist with household chores, running errands, companionship and respite breaks is a lifesaver. At Enlightenment Home Care, their team supports anyone struggling to care for themselves or others at home, whether that’s due to chronic pain or illness, a temporary change in mobility, medical recovery, advanced age or any other factor that disrupts daily living.
Sonnie Gay Lives Up to Her Name by Providing Supportive, Day-Brightening In-Home Care
Songaya Gay, who goes by Sonnie, started Enlightenment Home Care in 2020. Before opening her own business, Sonnie spent nearly 20 years as a nurse in hospice, long-term care, acute care, behavioral health and community-based services.
Those hands-on years allowed her to learn and grow. “That experience shaped my vision for a more compassionate and personalized approach to in-home care,” she explains, “care that treats clients like family.”
Staff at Enlightenment Home Care serve all ages and a wide range of care situations, says Sonnie, not just seniors. This includes individuals recovering from surgery, living with chronic conditions or navigating life transitions like new parenthood. Without a one-size-fits-all approach, the team creates personalized care plans for each client meeting their specific needs and limitations. Sonnie describes the approach as building relationships instead of filling shifts.
If You’re Facing New Challenges, Reach Out for Some Enlightenment Home Care Today
Sonnie says that each new client’s care plan starts with an in-home visit. “We believe seeing the person, environment and routine firsthand allows us to provide more thoughtful, consistent and customized care,” she explains. “Our caregivers are trained to lead with compassion, treating each client as they would their own loved one. Above all, we treat our clients like individuals and respect their independence and autonomy. They are the foremost expert on their own needs.”
Scheduling and visit frequency are also tailored to the individual’s needs, whether that means consistent, daily support or just a few visits per week. Services can be adjusted as needs change and be short-term or long-term care planning.
Beyond healthcare needs, Enlightenment provides short-term respite care for family caregivers, help for new parents needing infant support, companion care, light housekeeping and transportation to appointments. Staff also partner with local services for deep cleaning or additional, larger-scale issues.
Civic Partnerships Help Sonnie Grow Her Business from Living Room to Professional Setting
Like many start-ups, Sonnie’s living room was the initial business headquarters. But thanks to several key civic partnerships, she’s been able to put down roots and grow over the last five years.
Sonnie credits the Thurston Economic Development Council (EDC) and Washington Center for Women in Business (WCWB) for their education, support and access to professional development.
“The Thurston Chamber’s Small Business Incubator helped me get my business out of my living room and into a professional office where I can meet with clients and run my business,” Sonnie explains. “These groups helped me understand the business side of caregiving and connected me with mentorship and marketing opportunities that continue to benefit us today.”
She encourages fellow entrepreneurs to take the plunge. “Don’t be afraid to ask for help and use the resources available in our community,” says Sonnie. “Thurston County has a strong network of professionals, mentors and organizations ready to support local entrepreneurs. Also, stay clear on your mission; when your purpose is bigger than your fear, you’ll find the strength to push through challenges.”
Caregivers Wanted to Join the Enlightenment Home Care Team
If you’re a caregiver interested in making a new start, the Enlightenment Home Care team welcomes new staffers. Sonnie posts current openings tailored to individual client needs on Indeed or you can visit her website to fill out an application.
At Enlightenment Home Care, they prefer applicants have CNA or HCA credentials but are happy to offer guidance for those starting the certification process. “What matters most,” she says, “is compassion, reliability and a genuine desire to care for others.”
It’s estimated that one in five Americans serves as a caregiver for a family member or friends. If you or your loved ones need a break, reach out to Enlightenment Home Care today. You can call 360.339.5403 or schedule a call online and the team will arrange a home visit right away.
You’re not alone and help is just a phone call away thanks to the hard work and tireless dedication of Sonnie Gay and her team.
Enlightenment Home Care
809 Legion Way SE, Olympia
360.339.5403
Sponsored
