Alison Donnally created JoeyCo to connect aging adults with college students, aiming to address the needs of both groups. She initially tested her concept by listing her parents’ home on Craigslist, garnering significant interest that inspired her to develop a business model combining housing and elder care.
Having a background in healthcare strategy and personal family experiences with elderly care, Donnally recognized the importance of balancing independence with safety for older individuals. JoeyCo offers a solution by pairing students, referred to as “joeys,” with older adults (hosts), creating mutually beneficial relationships where students gain affordable housing and older adults receive support and companionship.
Donnally’s business faced challenges, particularly navigating housing regulations, but she emphasized extensive research, collaboration with legal experts, and strategic use of AI to streamline operations. While Jennifer’s venture isn’t profitable yet, she hopes to achieve sustainable growth as it scales. In sharing her journey, she stresses the need for proof of demand and the value of community connections across generations.
