Meet the Team

Dale Kiesz is the owner of Homewatch CareGivers serving Mountlake Terrace, Washington. Prior to buying this business, he spent 30 years in corporate America and live and worked internationally for half of that time. “Those experiences help so much with the broad range of cultures we work with—both our clients and our employees,” Dale said. “I am proud of the quality of our staff and our caregivers.”
Dale provides teaching and mentoring support within his business, including as an instructor for the 75-hour home care aide classes. “I spend a big chunk of every day helping people grow and cope with so many life and aging challenges,” he said.
In his lessons, Dale is telling people about the importance of active engagement and good personal care. “I’m helping to give our clients a sense of self-worth, and with this a chance to overcome boredom and loneliness as they age,” Dale said. “Giving their families peace of mind is an invaluable gift.”

Amy joined the Homewatch CareGivers team in 2016. Amy graduated from Western Oregon University with a bachelor’s degree in Art. She has a background in administrative work and excels in operations management and growth. Amy’s favorite quote is from Indian activist Mahatma Gandhi, who said, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” Amy considers it a gift to work with people from all walks of life. To be able to work with others to contribute to someone’s life in a meaningful way is important to her. If she is not at work or spending time with her family, you might find Amy taking a run outdoors!

Rachel Linden has a passion for people and making a difference in her local community. She has a bachelor’s degree in Social Work and in college began working with at-risk youth. She has been with the company since 2011. “Due to my husband’s professional baseball career, I have had the privilege of being able to travel quite a bit which has given me the opportunity to meet many different people and be around different cultures,” Rachel said. “That experience has helped me in the work I do here at Homewatch CareGivers and understanding of where people come from. I value each person’s uniqueness and enjoy working with people from all walks of life.” Rachel’s favorite quote is from blogger Melanie Koulouris: “Be humble in your confidence, yet courageous in your character.” This is dear to Rachel from her experience providing care to others. “Seeing the effect I had on them, and how much they appreciated the support showed me how much I truly enjoy helping others,” Rachel said. When home from work, Rachel is active with friends and family as she runs, plays soccer, rides bikes and works in the yard.

Ann Shimkevich, the Care Manager for Homewatch CareGivers in Mountlake Terrace, has worked in the medical field for 30 years as a medical assistant in a variety of offices. “I enjoy meeting and helping people,” Ann said. “Their need stirs something in my soul. It is very satisfying to know your work has made a tangible difference to an individual—whether it be the family, the client or the caregiver. Sometimes it is just a smile and a kind word that makes a difference.” Ann’s hobbies include herb gardening and scuba diving as well as just taking her dog for a walk.

Kathie Rivas, Care Manager for Homewatch CareGivers of Mountlake Terrace in Seattle began working in caregiving in 1989. She has worked in skilled nursing facilities, group homes, adult family homes and private homes. Plus, she has raised 8 children and worked as a special needs advocate. “I have worked as a paralegal and served almost 6 years on the board of directors for a homeowner’s association, but home care is where my heart sings the most,” Kathie said. “I feel that fostering independence and maintaining strength and the power to choose in your own home is the best place to enjoy each day.” As a care manager, Kathie strives to make the best fit between caregivers and clients for positive, empowering and productive visits. “I pride myself on high expectations for caregivers and flexible schedules for clients,” she said. “I am excited to help you figure out your care needs and find a place on our team.”

Bio coming soon!

Bio coming soon!

Crystal Wilkerson graduated with a degree in Accounting and Business Management, but then discovered that she likes people better than numbers. “After caring for my elderly parents and husband, I rather “fell” into caregiving and have not looked back,” Crystal said. “I find it rewarding personally and look forward to my alarm going off in the morning.” Crystal has worked in operations management and human resources. “This has taught me that planning is everything and yet it is also important to be able to handle spontaneity as no matter how well one plans, things are always changing,” she said. She said that she lives by the motto, “The one thing you can never give away is a smile…..it will always come back to you.” Crystal said: “I like to live by this as you can overcome a lot with a smile and you never know whose day you can make better.” What makes her smile is time spent gardening and playing with her dogs.

Whitney Lyons started at Homewatch Caregivers working with 24-hour clients. She is nursing certified and also has years of experience in childcare.

Bio coming soon!

Stacey Agena assists with Human Resources, childcare staffing, and day-to-day administrative tasks in the office. Stacey has a bachelor’s degree in Public Health from Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon, and she has completed training for her HCA license. “I’ve had the opportunity to participate in an internship at the Hillsboro Community Senior Center (in Hillsboro, Oregon),” she said. “And I also volunteered at the Arcadia Adult Day Care Center in Honolulu, Hawaii for two years.” One of Stacey’s favorite quotes is from the 15th century Italian artist, Michaelangelo: “I’m still learning.” The reason she likes this quote is because no matter what she is doing, she is learning. “Working at Homewatch CareGivers, I’ve learned not just how the company runs, but about how we’re able to impact our clients, the experiences people in our community are going through, and important issues in this industry,” she said. “I’m glad to continue learning in this role that can provide support to my colleagues and be part of a resource that makes a difference in people’s lives.” When she’s not at work, Stacey likes to hang out with family and friends, play with her cat, catch up on my latest Netflix and Kdrama series, and explore more of Washington!