BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS, CREATING FAMILIES

ABOUT SHARED LIVING

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The Shared Living Program is a unique opportunity for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities to live and thrive in a family environment. The individual is included in decisions about decorating their bedroom and the living space to ensure they are real members of the household. Individuals are also encouraged to participate in hobbies, spiritual/religious affiliations,
and develop friendships. ​

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At VIABILITY, we understand the difference between a house and a home. While we ensure a potential match is safe and clean, we place a high priority on ensuring the home provider is caring, supportive, respectful, and eager to include the incoming individuals in all aspects of their home life. This is the cornerstone of the Shared Living Program.

WHO CAN BE A CAREGIVER

Caregivers may be family members or patrons in the community. Some apply, other are referred to us. Caregivers will receive ongoing education, a tax-exempt stipend, and ongoing support from VIABILITY staff and resources.

Caregivers are patrons in the community and are referred to VIABILITY by the Department of Developmental Services (DDS).

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CONSIDERATION FACTORS WHEN PAIRING

Caregivers may be family members or patrons in the community. Some apply, other are referred to us. Caregivers will receive ongoing education, a tax-exempt stipend, and ongoing support from VIABILITY staff and resources.

VIABILITY believes that successful placement is based on finding the right match.

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• Geographic location preferred by individual

• Availability of Home Provider in relation to needs of individual

• Mobility needs of individual

• Gender preferred by both individual and potential home provider

• Smoking vs. Non-smoking

• Drinking vs. Non-drinking

• Ethnic/cultural background and language

• Religion

• Diet needs and preferences

• Personality

• Presence of pets

• Presence of children

• Health status of individual, Home Provider

• Other needs and preferences determined by the individual and referral team

TO QUALIFY AS A PARTICIPANT

Caregivers may be family members or patrons in the community. Some apply, other are referred to us. Caregivers will receive ongoing education, a tax-exempt stipend, and ongoing support from VIABILITY staff and resources.

• Adults who are at least 18 years old and need the daily support of a caregiver due to developmental or physical disabilities

• Participants must be referred by the Department of Developmental Services (DDS).

Download our Shared Living flyer

Download our caregiver application