The Authority Brands' 2025 Convention brought all of our brands together in one place to learn, grow, and celebrate. One of the highlights of our event was the Gala Awards, where we recognized our Franchise Owners of the Year for 2024.
Irma Diaz of Southwest Broward was named Franchise of the Year for Homewatch CareGivers.
“This award isn’t just about success; it’s about embodying the values, dedication, and passion that make our organization thrive,” said Todd Houghton, President of Homewatch CareGivers. “Tonight, we honor someone who has set the standard for excellence, not just in numbers but in heart, innovation, and leadership. This individual has gone above and beyond to create a thriving business, a loyal client base, and an inspiring team culture.”
Under Irma’s leadership, the Southwest Broward location of Homewatch CareGivers has not only achieved remarkable growth but has also become a pillar of the community. Irma and her team give back through mentoring employees, supporting local causes, and finding new ways to elevate the client experience.
“I recently had the opportunity to spend time at this individual’s office and what truly sets them apart is their unwavering commitment to excellence. They’ve shown resilience in the face of challenges, creativity in solving problems, and a vision for success that inspires all of us to aim higher,” said Todd.
Following the award recognition, we spoke with Irma to hear more about her experience of being a franchise owner with Homewatch CareGivers. Check out the Q&A below to hear more from Irma.
How many years have you been a franchise owner with Homewatch CareGivers?
5 years
What was your professional background before becoming a franchise owner?
Before becoming a franchise owner, I had experience in both the for-profit and non-profit sectors. In both areas, I worked in sales and operations, engaging with clients, businesses, and community members. This background gave me valuable skills in relationship-building, business development, and operational management, all of which have been essential in running a successful home care agency.
What do you feel has been the biggest benefit of being part of a franchise?
The biggest benefit of being part of a franchise has been the ability to reach out to other franchise owners who have always been available to offer support. Having a network of people who have gone through similar challenges and successes has been invaluable. It’s reassuring to know that I’m not alone in this journey and that I can lean on the collective experience and knowledge of others in the franchise. Their guidance and insights have helped me navigate obstacles, improve operations, and ultimately provide the best care possible to our clients.
What do you credit your success to?
I credit my success to a few key factors. First and foremost, I have a supportive husband who has been by my side since the beginning, encouraging me through long hours and the challenges of getting the business off the ground. Beyond that, I’m incredibly grateful for my team. They are compassionate individuals who show up every day with a commitment to providing excellent care to the most vulnerable members of our community. Their dedication, combined with a shared passion for making a difference, has been the foundation of our success.
What advice would you give to someone considering joining a franchise?
My advice would be to follow your passion. This business is all about caring for others with love and compassion. It’s not a typical 9-to-5 job, but it is deeply meaningful and rewarding. If you have a heart for serving others, especially the most vulnerable in our community, this can be an incredibly fulfilling journey. Be prepared to put in the time, stay committed, and always keep the focus on delivering excellent care.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my husband, family, and friends. I love being outdoors, whether it’s playing golf, boating, or just enjoying nature. Spending quality time with loved ones and staying active helps me recharge and maintain balance in my life.
Follow the links below to learn more about Homewatch CareGivers:
