Are you a caring person with a passion for helping others? Would you like to offer an individual support from your home and have a flexible schedule, all while helping out your community? Consider opening your heart and home to an individual in need by becoming a Shared Living Provider (SLP).
What is a Shared Living Provider?
A Shared Living Provider (SLP) is someone who cares for and provides a home for a Howard Center client to help them with independent living skills, provide them with support, and create a safe and structured home environment.
Although SLPs are not Howard Center employees, we connect individuals and families who want to become an SLP with an individual client. SLPs typically provide housing and day-to-day assistance, tailored to the different needs of an individual with developmental disabilities. We use an organized matching process to maximize the likelihood that each placement is mutually compatible. Being an SLP is similar to being a foster parent in that you would be welcoming a new person into your home and family.
Would I be paid?
In addition to the programmatic support you will receive from Howard Center, SLPs receive a generous yearly tax-free stipend plus monthly room and board payments. The stipend depends on the needs of the client and is set by the State of Vermont Department of Disabilities, Aging and Independent Living. Most clients are funded for approximately $25,000-$40,000/year.
How will I be matched with a client?
Howard Center has an in-depth matching process that allows for you to consider many opportunities, meet with different clients, go through trial period stays, and speak with others in the program before you move forward with a placement. The goal is for a placement to be a good long-term fit with your family.
Why should I consider becoming an SLP?
Becoming an SLP is a wonderful opportunity to help your community and make a life changing difference in someone’s life. In many cases, the client becomes a valued member of the SLP’s family. If you have children, this is a great opportunity to teach your kids about accepting everyone for who they are and helping out those in their community. Additionally, SLPs receive a generous tax-free stipend.
What are the requirements?
The main prerequisite for this job is for you to be a caring, compassionate, and responsible person. If you enjoy helping others and have the ability to open your home to someone, you may have the qualifications to become an SLP. You are required to have an additional private bedroom for the client. Additionally, you and all the adults in your household must consent to a background screening. Healthcare or similar experience is a plus but not required.
If you or anyone you know have questions or may be interested in this type of opportunity, please reach out to Julie Richards at JRichards@howardcenter.org for 802-488-7390 for more information.
Current Opportunities
Seeking Part-time Shared Living Provider in Chittenden County for a woman in her 30’s. Ideal candidate will be able to provide clear boundaries, clinical support while helping the client develop independent living skills and integrate into the community. Ideal candidate does not have young children. Compensation: $50,000 tax free annual stipend for part time schedule plus room and board. Contact mgeary@howardcenter.org or 802-488-6553.
Seeking a Shared Living Provider for a 33-year-old man who loves video games and Magic the Gathering. He requires all day supervision but can be alone in his room or left at home for up to an hour. This position will require daily supervision and helping the client with meal preparation, some transportation, and emotional support. The ideal placement would be a person or couple without children in the home, but pets are fine. Compensation: $40,000 tax-free annual stipend plus room and board and contracted supports. Contact wmanley@howardcenter.org or 802-488-6581.
Seeking afterschool respite support for an active 11-year-old boy in Essex Junction who is on the Autism Spectrum. He enjoys music, sensory type activities, swimming, and much more. Be prepared to laugh a lot with a silly kid who loves to make jokes and explore his community. The support is 2:1 and the starting pay rate is $20.54/hr. and based on experience up to $25.00/hr. Currently we are looking for afternoons 3-5 pm on weekdays, weekend supports 8:30-1 and 1-5 and asleep overnights. If interested or would like additional information, please email Sdonohue@howardcenter.org or call Shirley Donohue at 802-355-6094.
Seeking a Shared Living Provider for a 50-year-old male that loves movies, sports, and hiking. This position can be part-time or full-time as the current provider is flexible about transition date. This client would need to be supervised at home and in the community but can be alone in his bedroom or in the bathroom. He is high energy and curious about his surroundings. He will require some emotional supports and help with personal care. The ideal provider would be a female or couple living without children in the home. Pets are ok. Compensation includes a yearly tax-free stipend of $30,385 plus monthly room and board payments. Please contact Autumn Rakowitz at arakowitz@howardcenter.org or 802-307-2705.