Lifesharing Through Family Living

• Less restrictive, more individual-based residential service than group home services with 24/7 support from Barber National Institute staff.
• Being part of a family in a caring, committed home.
• Stability and continuity in one's life.
• Increased community involvement.
• Developing relationships and friendships.
• Providers specifically trained on the individual's diagnosis, needs, strengths, and interests.

Yes, biological family members can become Lifesharing providers through the Unlicensed Lifesharing program. These providers can be a parent, child, stepparent, stepchild, grandparent, grandchild, brother, sister, half-brother, half-sister, aunt, uncle, niece or nephew. Family members who choose to become a provider through Unlicensed Lifesharing do not undergo licensing inspections to meet state regulations, but they must receive annual trainings. 

• Varies depending on the family's and individual's desires and family dynamics.
• The provider family is not meant to replace the biological family but to serve as an extension of the family.

While individuals with intellectual disabiliteis may learn more slowly than others, they have the same dreams of independence, friendship and fulfillment. They can also give back love and be a contributing member to family and community. Many of the individuals are currently residing in residential community homes and have expressed a desire to live as part of the family.

The potential providers and the individual are carefully interviewed, then matched to ensure they have compatible interests and personalities. The Lifesharing Specialist will then arrange supervised visits to introduce the individual to the provider’s home and family. You will slowly progress, developing a relationship, until all parties feel comfortable with the move into your home