Griswold is More Than Home Care

Brandon Harrison

Co-Owner/Co-Director

Brandon is the co-founder and co-owner of Griswold Home Care for West Houston, a compassionate home care agency dedicated to providing exceptional care for individuals with disabilities, chronic conditions, and aging-related challenges. His journey into the world of home care began from a deeply personal experience—caring for his beloved grandmother, who suffered from dementia.

Growing up, Brandon was extremely close to his grandmother, and their bond was unbreakable. However, when dementia began to take hold, he witnessed firsthand the emotional, physical, and mental toll it took not only on his grandmother but on their entire family. The complexity of managing his grandmother’s care while maintaining a sense of dignity and quality of life deeply impacted Brandon, and he became determined to make a difference in the lives of others facing similar challenges.

As one of the primary caregivers for his grandmother, Brandon navigated the difficulties of dementia care—ensuring safety, managing behavioral changes, and providing emotional support. During this time, he recognized a lack of resources available to families in need of personalized, in-home care services. This realization sparked his decision to open Griswold Home Care for West Houston, with the mission to provide high-quality, compassionate home care for families going through similar struggles.

Viking Dietrich

Co-Owner/Co-Director

After graduating from the University of Mississippi in 1989 with a BBA in Petroleum Land Management, Viking spent over 30 years in the energy industry. From working as a landman in exploration and production to marketing and trading energy commodities, he built a successful career—but eventually, he was ready for a change. Viking wanted to do something more fulfilling, something that truly made a difference in people’s lives.

He knew two things for sure: he wanted to help people who might not be able to help themselves, and he wanted to create a great place to work. After exploring different industries with his business partner, Brandon Harrison, they decided that home care was the perfect fit. When they came across Griswold, they knew right away that its culture and values aligned with the kind of agency they wanted to build—one rooted in care, compassion, and respect.

Today, Viking is dedicated to providing high-quality home care while also making sure his team feels valued and supported. For him, this isn’t just a business, it’s a chance to truly make a difference, both for the clients they serve and the caregivers who make it all possible.

Yuri Penaloza

Caregiver Coordinator

With over 10 years of hands-on experience in senior care, Yuri has made an incredible journey from compassionate caregiver to dedicated and efficient administrator at Griswold Home Care for West Houston. As a caregiver, Yuri developed a deep understanding of client needs and the importance of empathy, patience, and personal connection in home care. This experience has shaped her commitment to providing the highest quality of care and support.

Through a combination of strong leadership skills, continuous professional development, and a passion for enhancing the lives of others, Yuri was promoted to the role of Caregiver Coordinator at Griswold Home Care for West Houston. In this position, Yuri oversees the day-to-day operations of the company, ensuring that both staff and patients receive the attention, care, and respect they deserve. With a deep understanding of senior's needs, staffing, and resource management, Yuri strives to improve operational efficiency while maintaining a client-first philosophy. Yuri’s leadership is characterized by a strong work ethic, a collaborative approach, and a heartfelt desire to make a difference in the lives of those under her care.

Yuri’s journey reflects a tireless dedication to the field of caregiving, and as an administrator, she works tirelessly to foster a positive and supportive environment for both staff and residents. Outside of the workplace, Yuri is committed to her children and loves spending her time with them.

Carissa Benedict

Caregiver Coordinator Administrator

Carissa began her caregiving career in an assisted living facility, where she provided compassionate support to residents. She later transitioned to assisting private clients in their homes, allowing her to deliver more personalized care. Through these experiences, she discovered that her true passion lies in helping others, whether by providing comfort and assistance to those in need, fostering a positive work environment, or simply making a meaningful difference in someone's day.

Each role she has taken on has deepened her skills in compassion, patience, resilience, time management, and the power of human connection. As she continues her journey in caregiving, Carissa remains committed to making a positive impact on the lives of those she serves, no matter where her path leads.

Shania Hamrick

Community Liaison

Shania is a dedicated professional with over a decade of experience in senior care, driven by personal experience and a commitment to creating compassionate environments for older adults. While first a wife and mother of three, it is her dedication to senior care that continues to fuel her motivation each day.

Having grown up with older parents, Shania has experienced firsthand the challenges that come with making difficult care decisions. Alongside her sister, they navigated the emotional and complex journey of ensuring their parents received the support they needed. This personal experience has shaped her approach to senior care—one centered on empathy, advocacy, and unwavering dedication to seniors' and their families.

Beyond her professional role, Shania finds joy in spending one-on-one time with seniors, getting to know them, and learning about their personal interests and needs. Whether it’s sharing stories, discovering their favorite pastimes, or simply being present, she believes in building meaningful connections that enhance seniors’ quality of life.

Outside of work, Shania cherishes time with family, especially supporting her three children in their activities, including cheer and football. Her personal and professional journey reflects a lifelong commitment to serving others and making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.