In 1974, Janet Sherwood, an Australian nurse, established Classic Personnel, a nanny agency in Vancouver. This business laid the foundation for what would later become Classic Caregivers and subsequently Classic LifeCare, a renowned name for home care services. Over the years, its evolution has been marked by significant milestones, strategic expansions, and a persistent commitment to providing exceptional care to individuals and families in need.
During the early 80s, Classic underwent a crucial transformation, shifting from a nanny service to a home care agency. This move makes Classic one of Vancouver’s longest-standing home care agencies. It laid the groundwork for the organization’s expansion and steadfast commitment to delivering individualized and compassionate care.
The Nineties: Classic Becomes a Sophisticated Business
The 1990s brought the arrival of Susanne, Andrea, Susan, Yvette, and Britney, five driven and ambitious women who would go on to carve significant careers leading Classic LifeCare. During the mid-nineties, Classic Caregivers operated from the basement of the Sherwood home with a small, dedicated team of 5-6 individuals. Growing out of the home in the Kerrisdale neighbourhood, in 1996 Classic secured its first official office space at Airport Square in South Vancouver. Despite several office floor changes throughout the years, Classic proudly remains in this great location where we have convenient access to many parts of the lower mainland for both staff and clients.
A defining moment in Classic’s history came when John Sherwood assumed leadership of the business in 1998 when his mother, Janet, fell ill. This transition ensured the culture of exceptional service that Janet had created was maintained. From a young age, John had grown up in the business and watched his mother build Classic Caregivers from the start in 1974. Importantly, he and the young team of leaders were committed to continuing Janet’s original vision and this has been a key to long term success for the business.
The New Century Brought New Leadership and Locations
Before 2005, Classic was based in Vancouver and served the lower mainland. In 2005, Classic began expanding services to different regions. Britney ZoBell had worked at the Vancouver office for six years when she made the difficult decision to move back to Alberta, where she grew up. Recognizing an opportunity, Britney confirmed a demand for home care services in Calgary and with support from Vancouver brought Classic Caregivers to Alberta. This was a significant milestone, and it started a trend of exploring different locations and potential acquisitions.
As Classic Caregivers and their affiliated company, CONNECT, experienced growth, John stepped away from day-to-day operational leadership of Classic in 2011. Andrea Warren was appointed as the Executive Leader and assumed operating responsibilities. Andrea successfully guided Classic for a decade, before handing the reigns over to Yvette in 2021.
Launching New Services and Achieving Accreditation
Two pivotal years in Classic’s history unfolded in 2013 and 2014. The rebranding of Classic Caregivers to Classic LifeCare marked a significant transformation, shaping the organization into what it is today. Concurrently, Calgary expanded its services by venturing into pediatric care, securing the prestigious Alberta Health Services contract for pediatric services.
In 2014, Classic became an accredited home care agency through Accreditation Canada, a testament to its commitment to meeting and exceeding the highest industry standards. Beyond being a noteworthy accomplishment, the journey toward accreditation instigated enduring changes within Classic, including improved documentation process, introducing policies, written employee orientation, contracts, annual reviews, and more. Attaining accreditation propelled Classic LifeCare to new heights, establishing a benchmark for excellence and professionalism.
Classic was on a path of strategic growth and geographical reach. Expansion occurred in Richmond in 2015, Comox in 2016, and Prince George in 2019. These moves saw our teams grow as we cared for people of all generations in Western Canada.
Big Changes in the 20’s
The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 posed unprecedented challenges for healthcare providers worldwide. The struggle to keep both clients and employees healthy and safe was paramount to making it through the pandemic. Classic adapted swiftly, implementing online orientations for employees and upgrading its scheduling program.
In 2021, Yvette’s appointment as Executive Leader emphasized Classic’s commitment to strong leadership driving its mission. Working closely with John, Susanne, Andrea, Susan and Britney since she started 25 years ago, Yvette has learned by doing and been successfully involved in all aspects of the business. Acquisitions of Cariboo Housekeeping and Driving Miss Daisy expanded Classic’s services, showcasing the organization’s holistic approach to addressing various aspects of home care needs.
The year 2023 marked the launch of Classic Cares, Classic’s corporate giving program. With 50 years of community backing, Classic aimed to reciprocate the support received by giving back to these communities.
During each milestone, acquisition, and innovation, Classic LifeCare has remained committed to delivering exceptional care. As it moves forward, Classic LifeCare continues to uphold its values, adapt to changing times, and evolve. Classic’s journey exemplifies a legacy of resilience, compassion, and excellence in home care.
