Becoming a certified caregiver shouldn't require going into debt. Yet most training programs charge $500-1,200 for basic certification, creating barriers for compassionate individuals ready to enter this vital field. At Encore Care, we eliminate this obstacle entirely—covering all certification costs while paying you during training.

The traditional certification trap

Across Ohio and Pennsylvania, aspiring caregivers face a frustrating paradox. Healthcare facilities desperately need workers—the shortage will reach 2.3 million by 2030—yet require expensive certifications many can't afford. Traditional schools charge hefty fees, offer inflexible schedules, and provide no job guarantees after graduation.

Sarah from Pittsburgh discovered this firsthand. "I wanted to transition from retail to caregiving after helping my mom through cancer treatment. But every program wanted $800 upfront, plus I'd lose income during training. I almost gave up until I found Encore Care's free certification program."

Our three-week journey to certification

Week one begins with online modules you complete at your own pace. These 40 hours of engaging content cover state requirements including CPR, safety protocols, infection control, and compassionate care techniques. Unlike rigid classroom schedules, you can study evenings, weekends, or whenever fits your life. We provide tablets if you need them—no barriers, just support.

Week two introduces hands-on practice with experienced mentors. You'll shadow certified caregivers in real homes, learning practical skills textbooks can't teach. How do you help someone with dignity? How do you become part of a family's support system? Our mentors, averaging eight years' experience, share wisdom earned through thousands of caring interactions. Best part? You earn training wages during this shadowing period.

Week three sees you ready for independent assignments with ongoing support. Our 24/7 care team ensures you never feel alone. Have a question at 2 AM? We're there. Need advice handling a difficult situation? We've got your back. By month's end, you're fully certified and earning full wages plus tokens.

Beyond basic certification

Once established, we offer free specialty certifications that increase your earning potential. Dementia care specialists earn $2-3 more per hour. Medication management certification opens doors to complex cases with higher compensation. We even cover costs for those pursuing LPN or RN degrees while working with us.

Compare this investment in your growth to traditional agencies that treat certifications as your problem. We see your advancement as our success. Every skill you gain makes you more valuable—to clients, to us, and most importantly, to yourself.

Real numbers, real opportunity

Traditional certification path: Pay $800, lose three weeks' income, hope for job placement. Total cost: $2,500-3,000.

Encore Care path: Free certification, earn during training, guaranteed placement, start building token wealth immediately. Total gain: $1,500+ in first month.

The math is simple, but the impact is profound. We're removing every barrier between compassionate people and meaningful careers. Because when we invest in caregivers, everyone wins—caregivers build careers, families receive quality care, and communities grow stronger.

Start your journey this week

Don't let certification costs keep you from a rewarding career. Apply online in 10 minutes. Within 48 hours, we'll schedule your orientation. Three weeks later, you're certified, employed, and building wealth through our tokenization program.