We had the good fortune of connecting with Francis LeGasse Jr. and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Francis, Let’s talk about principles and values – what matters to you most?
Honesty, integrity and family. Growing up my parents, especially my father, instilled in us we must do the right thing no matter the outcome. It was a lesson I’m thankful today because I’ve learned doing the right thing isn’t always easy. However, when you do the right thing and put your name behind it that’s what matters. We must be leaders based on actions. Our actions must be truthful and impactful. My grandparents where very influential on the path I choose. I learned the importance of family and being there to support each other during the hard times. Additionally, I saw the challenges on our family as both my grandparents aged, one living with Parkinson’s and the other with Dementia. Both were strong men who lead incredible service filled lives. However, the stress at times on our families, especially my mother, made me realize the importance of creating an organization that not only provided a high level of love and care for our older adults but also supported their families.
Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Our dedication to having an impact on our older adults who are living with health challenges such as Alzheimer’s and Dementia. We started because of family stories and seeing the stress our own families went through when tackling life of an aging grandparent. It not only affected the immediately family but also the extended family. I saw the emotional and physical stress on my own parents as they navigated the world with their aging parent. I believe we must tackle the challenging issues head and have a positive impact on people. We must uphold the importance of each Individual person and do it the right way for them and their family. Our team and our approach truly sets us apart. We build and design purpose built ranch style homes for our adults who live with Dementia. Our team focuses on the staff and how we staff. We always ensure we have 1 care partner for every 4 residents. The majority of our residences only have 8 wonderful older adults so we can ensure we cater to each independently. The last 11 years has been a roller coaster. We’ve made some really good decision and some not so good decision. There have been plenty of times when our backs were against the wall but that brought back to our core. Do things the right way and it will work out (just maybe not on our time table). Many of our accomplishments seemed to take twice as long and cost twice as much. However, we always focus on the best possible outcome of those we serve and we do it with dignity and honesty. The longer I’ve been in senior living (aging services) the more I want to have a positive impact on how we tackle aging. We must begin to view aging as a celebration and not a negative. I want our communities to embrace our older adults and have creative new ideas on how we can support each other. We must stop isolating our older adults and embrace their wisdom. We have so much to learn from the generations before us. As it is often said, one of the greatest honors is to provide care for those who have come before. We must celebrate growing older with enthusiasm, optimism and courage!
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I love the mountains especially Vail. My wife and I were married there almost six years ago. I would head there whether it be the summer or winter. For starters we must stop at Beau Jo’s pizza in Idaho Springs and get a mountain pie. Definitely need to the stop off in Breck and check out the giant wooden troll (my kids loved it – couldn’t quite figure it out). Once we hit Vail, if ski season definitely need to get on the mountains and take them to the famous Blue Sky Basin. After the full day of skiing must hit an Apres Ski at Los Amigos or Pepi’s. Then definitely have to hit up one of the many amazing restaurants. Have a night cap in the amazing outdoor hot tub.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My Father – Francis LeGasse & My Mother – Lynne LeGasse: Both taught me to face challenges head on and have faith in myself.
Website: assuredassistedliving.com
Instagram: instagram.com/francislegacy
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/francis-legasse-jr/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/francislegacy
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AssuredAssistedLiving
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNO3rr-YSP_Wljdf13-XrYg
Image Credits
WealthyCO