One-on-One Care Resonates With Honored Care Pro Leslie
“Caring for people has been such a big part of my life for so long that it truly feels like my calling.” – Home Instead® Care Professional of the Month Leslie Montalvo
After years of CNA work and being a Certified Medication Aide, Leslie wanted to do something “that felt more one-on-one and meaningful.” She added: “Home Instead felt like the perfect fit because it gives me the chance to not only help seniors with their needs, but also build real relationships with them and their families.”
In November 2025, Lesie joined Home Instead of San Angelo, Texas, an award-winning franchise owned by Lorena and William Shensky. It is the sister franchise of the Shensky-owned office in Midland, which also serves Odessa and other cities towns in the Permian Basin.
“Working for Home Instead has honestly been such a blessing. Even in the short time I’ve been with Home Instead, I’ve met some amazing clients who have truly touched my heart and reminded me why I love what I do,” Leslie said. “I found Home Instead while looking for a place where I could continue doing what I love most – caring for others in a more personal way.”
Leslie has been doing CNA work since 2014, and she became a Certified Medication Aide in 2018. Over the years,” Leslie said. “I’ve learned that caregiving is so much more than helping with daily tasks – it’s about patience, kindness and trust. I love making someone feel safe and cared for. Every person with whom I’ve worked has taught me something special.”
Referring to family caregiving, Leslie said: “Taking care of others has always come naturally to me, even in my personal life. I’ve always been the one whom family members can count on when someone needs help and comfort, or just someone sitting beside them. Those moments taught me how important it is to show love through care, and I think that’s a big reason why caregiving means so much to me today.”
Home Instead Engagement and Training Advisor Rozephyr Jean said Leslie displays Home Instead’s guiding principles of “Build Trust, Take the Lead and Share Your Heart.”
Rozephyr pointed out: “Leslie consistently demonstrates reliability and dedication. She is always on time, rarely calls off and is willing to stay beyond her scheduled hours when additional coverage is needed. She regularly picks up extra shifts and provides exceptional, consistent care to her clients. Leslie is also highly responsive, making communication with the office seamless. We are truly grateful to have her as part of the Home Instead San Angelo family!”
Leslie’s “game plan” is compassion, compassion and more compassion. She explained: “What I love most about being a Care Pro is knowing I can make someone’s day a little easier and a little brighter. Sometimes it’s helping with the simple things, and sometimes it’s just sitting with them, listening to their stories and making sure they know they matter. I love being someone they can trust and look forward to seeing. The smiles, the laughs and the little moments of connection are what stay with me the most.”
One of her favorite memories centers on a client who was quiet when Leslie first started assisting the individual. “Little by little, the client started opening up. The person shared stories about their younger days, their family and memories that made them smile,” Leslie said, “Seeing that change – watching someone go from quiet and withdrawn to laughing and telling stories – was so special to me. It reminded me that sometimes the greatest care we can give is simply our time, patience and presence. This version feels more ‘you’ – warm, loving and from the heart.”
All Home Instead Care Professionals are screened, trained and insured. For inquiries about employment, please call (325) 644-8387 or apply online. For further information about Home Instead, visit our website.
