2023 6th Annual
Private Care Symposium
October 4-5, 2023
Tampa, Florida
The Home Care Association of Florida (HCAF) is excited to present the 6th Annual Private Care Symposium, a comprehensive day of professional development tailored specifically for private pay home care providers. This year's event kicks off with an evening reception on Wednesday, October 4, setting the stage for a day filled with enriching sessions and valuable networking opportunities on Thursday, October 5. Don't miss your chance to participate in this exceptional gathering of esteemed industry leaders and influencers. Secure your spot by registering today!
The Westshore Grand, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel
4860 West Kennedy Boulevard
Tampa, Florida 33609
The Westshore Grand, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel, is a unique and stylish hotel that defines an authentically modern Florida lifestyle. The Westshore Grand offers a distinctive, luxurious Florida-inspired design and an energetic and service-minded atmosphere. Conveniently located in the Westshore business district, just five miles from downtown Tampa and the Tampa Convention Center our hotel is ideal for business and for play. Guests can take advantage of the rooftop pool and spacious accommodations.
HCAF has secured a discounted group rate of $169 per night plus tax. This discounted group rate is available for stays between October 2-7, 2023, and includes the following amenities:
- WiFi in all guest rooms and public areas within the hotel
- Free self-parking
- Free shuttle to and from Tampa International Airport (TIA)
The deadline to book at the group rate is September 25th. Any unreserved rooms by this date will be released back into general inventory and reservations will be accepted on a space and rate-available basis.
For more hotel details, including parking information, simply click here.
Wednesday, October 4
Thursday, October 5
JIMMY CARD
MANAGING PARTNER • CONTINENTAL STRATEGY
Jimmy Card is the Tallahassee managing partner of Continental Strategy with over 20 years of experience representing clients, including the Home Care Association of Florida. Focused on the healthcare industry with an extensive background in managing care companies, Jimmy has successfully navigated the complex healthcare landscape and advocated for the interests of his clients at both the federal and state levels.
Prior to joining the lobbying industry, Jimmy worked on multiple political campaigns and served as a legislative staff member to several members in the House and Senate. This experience provided him with an in-depth understanding of the legislative process and the inner workings of government, allowing him to effectively advocate for his clients’ interests. He has developed strong relationships with legislators and Florida’s regulatory agencies, providing his clients with a deep understanding of the healthcare policies and regulations unique to each client.
Throughout his career, Jimmy has established a reputation for his strategic thinking, unparalleled work ethic, and unwavering commitment to his clients’ success. His expertise and advocacy have helped shape healthcare policy at both the federal and state levels, and he continues to be a trusted advisor to his clients in navigating the ever-changing political and regulatory landscape.
In addition to his extensive experience in lobbying and government affairs, Jimmy is also a proud owner of Epic Bikes, a popular bike shop located in Tallahassee. Jimmy’s passion for cycling led him to open the shop, which has since become a staple in the community for its quality bikes and exceptional customer service.
Jimmy’s experience as a small business owner provides him with a unique perspective on the challenges faced by his clients in the healthcare industry, particularly in navigating complex regulatory environments and managing costs. His understanding of the interplay between government policy and business operations allows him to provide his clients with strategic advice that considers both their financial and regulatory objectives.
Through his work at both his lobbying firm and Epic Bikes, Jimmy has established himself as a respected leader in the Tallahassee community. His dedication to his clients, his community, and his passion for cycling continue to drive him in all of his endeavors.
GANGUL GABADAGE
DIRECTOR OF HEALTHCARE PRACTICE • CONTINENTAL STRATEGY
Gangul Gabadage holds the position of Director of Healthcare Practice at Continental Strategy, which serves as HCAF's year-round contract lobbying firm. Since 2022, Gangul has held the role of Deputy Director of the Office of Legislative Affairs within the Florida Department of Health, affording him extensive insight into the legislative landscape. Prior to this, he served as the Director of Executive Appointments at the Florida Department of Health, where he was responsible for overseeing the administration and management of the Department's 56 boards, councils, and committees. Gangul is a graduate of Florida State University.
RACHEL GARTNER
OWNER & CEO • CAREWORK
As a recruiter at a Florida home care agency in 2018, Rachel Gartner utilized data-driven recruitment methods that helped her quickly become responsible for the recruitment of an entire region. Her formula for success has proven so replicable that after successful recruiting at the regional level, Rachel founded Carework in order to take that success to the national level. Rachel founded Carework in 2018, growing a team of thirty employees across the country who have assisted home care agencies in hiring thousands of caregivers.
Rachel lives in Statesboro, Ga., with her husband and two children.
REPRESENTATIVE TRACI KOSTER
LEGISLATOR • FLORIDA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Representative Traci Koster has deep roots in the Tampa Bay community. Raised in North Pinellas County and the product of Stetson University College of Law, where she graduated magna cum laude, Rep. Koster's passion for the law brought her to Hillsborough County where she practices family law at her own firm: Koster Legal.
An accomplished lawyer and legal professional, Rep. Koster was named a Rising Star by Super Lawyers for the past seven consecutive years. She is active in the legal community as the immediate past President of the Hillsborough County Bar Association Young Lawyers Division and the co-founder and co-chair of Tampa Bay Pro Bono Partners. For her work with the Tampa Bay Pro Bono Partners, Rep. Koster was the recipient of the 2016 Outstanding Pro Bono Service by a Young Lawyer Award, presented by the Thirteenth Judicial Circuit. In 2019, Rep. Koster received the Florida Bar’s Lynn Futch Most Productive Young Lawyer Award in recognition of her commitment to the legal community and the community at large. In law school, she was recognized as the Stanley Milledge Award Recipient and the William F. Blews Pro Bono Service Award Recipient.
Rep. Koster was first elected to the Florida House of Representatives in November 2020, and subsequently in 2022. As a mother of two young children, Rep. Koster's passion for our community extends beyond the courtroom. She is a common sense, results-oriented leader who believes in the power of our local businesses to help create an economy that provides an abundance of opportunity and good, high-paying careers. An ardent defender of our Constitutional liberties, Rep. Koster witnesses firsthand how important it is we protect our Constitution and enforce the rule of law.
Rep. Koster lives in northwest Hillsborough County with her two children, Colton and Sadie.
CINDY LAVOIE
OWNER & ADMINISTRATOR • INTERIM HEALTHCARE OF NORTHWEST FLORIDA
Cindy Lavoie is a highly accomplished health care executive with over 30 years of experience in the home health industry. She owns a multi-location home health agency covering 18 counties in the Florida Panhandle. Her exceptional leadership is reflected in the agency's longevity and ability to cater to the unique needs of the local community. Cindy's expertise spans home health operations, finance, and business development. She has successfully navigated the agency through growth cycles, ensured compliance with regulatory requirements, and actively overseen human resource processes. Cindy holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Florida and is deeply engaged in professional organizations and community initiatives, including her role as President of the Home Care Association of Florida.
In her community involvement, Cindy participates in organizations such as the Network of Entrepreneurs and Business Advocates (NEBA), CareerSource Capital Region, and the Girl Scouts of the USA, where she serves as a troop leader. Her extensive experience, unwavering dedication, and leadership qualities make her a highly respected figure in the home health industry and the communities she serves.
BOBBY LOLLEY
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR • HOME CARE ASSOCIATION OF FLORIDA
Bobby Lolley, RN, is Executive Director of the Home Care Association of Florida (HCAF). He has worked in the home care industry for more than 20 years. His home care experience ranges from being a per diem staff nurse providing care to patients in a small rural community, to a regional director for a large national chain. He often says he has done just about every job there is in the home care sector, but still remembers his first home visit: “I was standing there in this little old lady's house and a feeling came over me that I had finally come home — I knew then and there this would be where I would spend the remainder of my professional life.” His faith and passion for home care have never wavered since. Bobby graduated cum laude from Valdosta State University in 1992 with a B.S. in Nursing.
SUSAN HARRIS LOWERY
DIVISION OF HEALTH CARE POLICY AND OVERSIGHT • AGENCY FOR HEALTH CARE ADMINISTRATION
Susan Lowery, RN, BSN, graduated from Florida State University with a B.S. in Nursing. She has been a registered nurse for over 30 years, including more than 20 years in home health care, beginning as a field nurse and ending in management. Susan has worked for the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) for 10 years. She has held positions as a registered nurse surveyor, registered nurse consultant with the complaint unit, informal dispute panel member, OASIS Education Coordinator with the Survey and Certification Support Branch, and currently is a Government Analyst within the Chief of Field Operations office.
MICHELANGELO MORTELLARO
PRINCIPAL ATTORNEY • MORTELLARO LAW
Michelangelo Mortellaro, Esq., received his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Phoenix in 2003. He received his Juris Doctor from Florida International University and graduated with honors in 2006. Mr. Mortellaro’s practice areas include: Estate planning, probate, Medicaid asset protection, and VA benefits. Mortellaro Law helps families with their estate planning, probate, and elder law legal needs.
Michelangelo services clients in Tampa, Hillsborough County, and throughout the adjoining counties. With 14 years of experience in elder law, Michelangelo devotes his time and resources to educate the community and his clients on elder law affairs and estate planning.
KYLE SIMON
SENIOR DIRECTOR OF POLICY, ADVOCACY & COMMUNICATIONS • HOME CARE ASSOCIATION OF FLORIDA
Kyle Simon is HCAF's Senior Director of Policy, Advocacy & Communications. His background includes over a decade of health policy, advocacy, and political experience. He has worked with federal and state policymakers on Medicare, Medicaid, prescription drugs, and related regulatory issues, served members of Congress, managed a statewide political organization representing the President of the United States, and held leadership roles in multiple political campaigns. Additionally, he has been an Adjunct Professor at Valencia College since 2012.
Kyle holds a Master of Science degree in Applied American Politics and Policy and a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science from Florida State University.
STEPHEN TWEED
CHAIRMAN & CEO • LEADING HOME CARE…A TWEED JEFFRIES COMPANY
Stephen Tweed, CSP, has spent the last 30 years working with home care organizations that want to grow and with home care leaders who want to prepare for the future. Currently, he is the Chairman and CEO of Leading Home Care…a Tweed Jeffries Company. Additionally, he is the founder of the Home Care CEO Forum, a network of executives in the top 10% of the home care industry.
Stephen is an internationally recognized health care and business strategist, award-winning professional speaker, and published author. His most recent book, "Conquering the Crisis: Proven Solutions for Caregiver Recruiting and Retention", was published in 2018.
As a part of his work, he regularly conducts industry research to identify the best practices in strategy, leadership, and talent acquisition.
Register online or call (850) 222-8967. HCAF members receive a discount on registration as a benefit of membership (login is required to redeem the discount). Registration is subject to our cancellation, substitution, and payment policies.
Cancellations must be made in writing or by email to Julia Thompson on or before September 20 to receive a refund minus a 20% administrative fee. No cancellation refunds will be made after that date, and all outstanding balances will be due in full.
For more information, call (850) 222-8967 or send us a message.
Private Duty Members
Associate Members
Certified Members
Prospective Members
HCAF offers a variety of ways for home care industry vendors to promote their products and services at the upcoming 6th Annual Private Care Symposium. Sponsorship packages and à la carte opportunities are listed below and applicable to HCAF members only. Prospective members may sponsor and advertise at double the listed rates. Please note that sponsorship packages are not exclusive unless stated otherwise and have limited availability due to space constraints.
Cancellations must be made in writing or by email to Julia Thompson by September 20 to receive a refund minus a 20% administrative fee. No cancellation refunds will be made after that date, and all outstanding balances will be due in full.
For more information, call (850) 222-8967 or send us a message.
Valued at over $3,000 and includes:
- Tabletop display during the welcome reception reception and the entire following day (valued at $2,000)
- One (1) complimentary event registration ($279)
- Sponsor logo on all event email promotions ($500)
- Sponsor logo on the event website and registration page ($200)
- Sponsor logo on the looping slideshow displayed between sessions, breaks, and meals ($100)
- Recognition in a handout that acknowledges sponsorship level ($50)
- Sponsor logo on event signage ($200)
- One (1) complimentary invitation to attend the welcome reception ($100)
Valued at over $5,000 and includes all of the Silver Package benefits, plus:
- Recognition as the morning and afternoon breaks sponsor (valued at $1,000)
- Sponsor flyer insert in the event program that acknowledges the level of sponsorship ($250; sponsor is responsible for printing and shipping to HCAF)
- One (1) branded promotional item, such as name badge lanyards, pens, notepads, mints, etc., to be distributed to all attendees (sponsor is responsible for supplying and shipping to HCAF)
- Half-page, black and white advertisement in the event program (sponsor is responsible for printing and shipping to HCAF by September 20)
- One (1) additional complimentary event registration, for a total of two (2) transferable registrations ($558)
- Placement of the sponsor’s pop-up banner in the registration area or session room
- One (1) additional complimentary invitation to attend the welcome reception, for a total of two (2) invitations ($200)
Valued at over $8,000 and includes all of the Silver Package and Gold Package benefits, plus:
- Opportunity to introduce a session speaker, based on availability and order of sponsorship commitment (priceless exposure and brand awareness opportunity!)
- Sponsor video (1-2 minutes) presented to attendees before speaker introduction (deadline to send media file/link is September 27)
- Full-page, black and white advertisement in the event program (September 20 deadline; benefit is in place of the half-page ad included in the Gold Package)
- Sponsor logo on the cover of the event program
- Opportunity to be a featured speaker at an upcoming Private Duty Lunch Chat webinar; this benefit gives HCAF the opportunity to remind attendees of the sponsor’s generosity and participation in the Home Care Warm Up (priceless exposure and brand awareness opportunity!)
- Recognition as the morning breakfast and lunch sponsor ($3,000)
- Opportunity to be a guest blogger in HCAF’s members-only newsletter to showcase the sponsor’s expertise on a topic relevant to home care provider (priceless exposure and brand awareness opportunity!)
- One (1) additional complimentary event registration, for a total of three (3) transferable registrations ($837)
- One (1) additional complimentary invitation to attend the welcome reception, for a total of three (3) invitations ($300)
- Early access to select an exhibitor booth for the HomeCareCon 35th Annual Conference & Trade Show, taking place July 16-19, 2024, in Orlando (priceless opportunity!)