Our Story: Caretech of Kansas

A Legacy That Began With One Woman’s Heart

In 2000, founder Georgeann Smith opened The Smith Agency after years of quietly building a reputation for extraordinary caregiving. What started with just two clients in one Kansas county grew into a thriving organization of 45 employees, 85 clients, and services reaching five counties—all fueled by Georgeann’s unwavering belief that every person deserves dignity, purpose, and a joyful life.

Georgeann’s path into caregiving was shaped long before the agency was created. She honed her business skills as co-owner of a ServiceMaster franchise for 24 years with her late husband, Kirby Smith. She later worked as a paraeducator in the Emporia School District, where her natural compassion quickly stood out. Soon, she was asked to provide respite care for two individuals—one of whom would change her life forever.

The Story That Became the Heart of the Agency

One of Georgeann’s earliest clients was Pat, a 50-year-old disabled man whose greatest dream was to become a fireman. While his dream felt out of reach, Georgeann saw possibility. She approached the local fire department with a simple but powerful idea: allow Pat to volunteer by painting fire hydrants throughout the city. The fire department said yes.

For years, Georgeann and Pat painted more than 160 fire hydrants across Emporia—work that brought Pat immense pride and connection. He felt like part of the fire department. He felt included. He felt seen. Pat’s story became the foundation of The Smith Agency’s identity: Care should create opportunity, not just meet needs.

Programs Rooted in Purpose

Driven by this philosophy, The Smith Agency introduced programs many care organizations had never considered:

• A client-led paper route to build job skills, responsibility, and confidence
• A bowling league encouraging social connection and community inclusion
• A fair competition category for individuals with disabilities so clients could compete fairly
• Special Olympics involvement, creating opportunities for achievement and belonging

These programs weren’t just activities—they were lifelines. Proof that caregiving, when done with intention, transforms lives.

Joining Caretech Caretech: A New Chapter With the Same Heart

In 2025, Caretech—a leading independent non-medical home care provider serving Nebraska, Iowa, Wyoming, and now Kansas—acquired The Smith Agency, marking Caretech’s expansion into its fourth Midwest state.

Caretech will maintain The Smith Agency’s compassionate, dedicated team to ensure continuity and trust for every client and family. The addition of The Smith Agency’s Adult Day Center further strengthens Caretech’s ability to support individuals across the lifespan.

Looking Forward: A Stronger Future Together

With this acquisition, Caretech deepens its commitment to personalized, community-focused home care. The Smith Agency’s legacy continues—now backed by Caretech’s growing Midwest network and commitment to exceptional care.

About Caretech

Caretech is one of the Midwest’s largest independent non-medical home care providers, serving seniors and individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. With a foundation built on compassion, innovation, and strong community partnerships, Caretech empowers individuals to live with dignity, independence, and the highest possible quality of life.

The acquisition of The Smith Agency represents Caretech’s continued commitment to expanding services and supporting individuals across Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, and Wyoming.