Community Homes
Community Homes and Life Sharing are two key services for consumers with intellectual/developmental disabilities. In the early 1990’s, many individuals living in state centers began moving back into residential communities to live in supportive housing or life sharing/family living arrangements. Lifesteps currently operates 51 Community Homes in 7 western Pennsylvania counties and Life Sharing arrangements.
Community Homes / Residential Living
Lifesteps’ Residential Living program enables individuals to become more self-sufficient in daily living activities helping them to achieve the highest level of functioning in the least restrictive environment.
A dedicated team of Direct Care Professionals, including Nurses, Residential Companions, Residential Aides, and Program Specialists, work with each individual to help them develop self-sufficiency in daily living skills, socialization, and leisure skills through community relationships. Lifesteps strives to provide an environment of learning, care and support so individuals can increase their ability for initiative and resourcefulness, and learn as much self-reliance as possible.
Lifesteps takes pride in being a good community neighbor in residential settings by regular maintenance and upkeep of the Community Home and surrounding property. Individuality and personalization are encouraged in Lifesteps’ Community Homes so that residents feel it is truly their home.
Life Sharing
Lifesteps provides Life Sharing or Family Living arrangements for individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities. Direct Care Professionals work to find the best fit for both individuals and the companions or families with which the consumer will reside. Host families, under the direction and guidance of Lifesteps, provide individual care and support to consumers.