A Home for the Holidays: Shared Living Providers
November 15, 2024
At Goodwill Industries of Greater Nebraska, we believe that everyone deserves to feel at home, to be part of a community, and to live a life filled with purpose and joy. For individuals with disabilities, the path to independence and a fulfilling life can sometimes feel challenging. That’s where our Shared Living Program comes in—providing not just a place to live but a nurturing, supportive environment where abilities are celebrated, and individuals can thrive.
What is Shared Living?
Shared Living is more than just housing—it’s a partnership. It’s a program designed to match individuals with disabilities with caring providers who open their hearts and homes, offering a family-like atmosphere. It’s about building meaningful relationships, encouraging independence, and empowering individuals to lead enriched, fulfilling lives.
In this unique arrangement, individuals with disabilities live in the home of a provider—a person or family who supports them in daily activities, helps them build life skills, and ensures they are safe and happy. The relationship is at the heart of Shared Living. The bond between the individual and the provider creates a warm, stable environment where trust, respect, and companionship are the foundation.
How Shared Living Benefits Individuals with Disabilities
For individuals with disabilities, Shared Living offers more than just a place to stay—it offers a home. It’s a space where they can feel safe, valued, and understood. Here are some of the incredible benefits:
- Personalized Support: In a Shared Living home, individuals receive one-on-one support tailored to their needs. This can include assistance with daily living tasks, managing medical appointments, or working towards personal goals.
- Independence: Shared Living promotes independence at each individual’s pace. With the guidance of their provider, individuals can develop life skills, make choices, and grow more confident in their abilities.
- Community and Belonging: Living in a shared home creates a sense of belonging and connection. The individual becomes part of the provider’s family and community, building relationships that bring joy, security, and companionship.
- Stable Environment: Unlike traditional group homes, Shared Living offers a more personalized and stable setting, reducing stress and creating a consistent routine. This stability can significantly improve the overall well-being of individuals with disabilities.
Becoming a Provider: How You Can Make a Difference
Being a Shared Living provider is a rewarding and life-changing experience. Providers play a crucial role in the lives of individuals with disabilities, offering care, friendship, and the chance for those individuals to grow and succeed. If you’ve ever thought about making a meaningful impact in someone’s life, this could be your opportunity.
What Does It Take to Be a Provider?
You don’t need a special degree or prior experience in caregiving to become a provider. What matters most is your compassion, patience, and a commitment to helping someone live their best life. Providers open their homes, offering love and support, while Goodwill Industries of Greater Nebraska offers the training and guidance you need to succeed.
The Support You’ll Receive
Goodwill will be there for you every step of the way. We provide:
- Comprehensive Training: You’ll receive thorough training on how to support individuals with disabilities, ensuring you feel confident and prepared.
- Ongoing Guidance: Our team is always available to offer advice, help with problem-solving, and provide resources to ensure both you and the individual in your care are thriving.
- Financial Compensation: As a provider, you’ll receive compensation for your time and dedication, making this not only a meaningful role but also a sustainable one.
How to Get Started
Becoming a Shared Living provider is an extraordinary way to make a difference. If you’re ready to open your heart and home to someone in need, the process is simple:
- Contact Us: Reach out to Goodwill Industries of Greater Nebraska to express your interest. We’ll provide you with all the information you need.
- Complete the Application: We’ll guide you through the application and screening process to ensure it’s a great match.
- Begin Your Journey: After training and preparation, you’ll welcome an individual into your home, embarking on a rewarding journey filled with connection, growth, and joy.
Together, We Can Create Homes Filled with Hope
At Goodwill Industries of Greater Nebraska, our Shared Living Program changes lives—both for the individuals with disabilities and for the providers who welcome them. It’s a program built on trust, love, and the belief that everyone deserves to live a life full of dignity, independence, and joy.
If you’re ready to be part of something bigger, to provide a home where someone can truly thrive, we encourage you to reach out and learn more.
Together, we can empower lives and sustain futures.
To learn more about becoming a provider or the Shared Living Program, visit: Become a Shared Living Provider or Developmental Disability Services