• Alternative Family Living client in a red shirt next to his caregiver

Alternative Family Living

Alternative Family Living offers accommodations that are as unique as the individuals we support

Sometimes individuals with an intellectual and/or developmental disability (IDD) are ready to move out of the family home or may be seeking independence, but need supervised companionship to ensure their safety and well-being. Easterseals UCP’s Alternative Family Living program carefully screens, trains and recruits caregivers willing to welcome individuals with IDD into their home.

Individuals in our Alternative Family Living (AFL) homes have their own identities, life goals and varied levels of needed support. Supported by Easterseals UCP, individuals also work on their daily and independent living skills while being integrated into the household and the community. Depending on the person, they might attend a day program or receive other services in addition to the assistance provided by AFL hosts.

For many years, we have successfully matched hosts and individuals to ensure the right fit. In addition, our AFL providers undergo extensive training and are supervised by our team to ensure they continue offering a safe, stable and caring home.

Alternative Family Living program goals:

• Increase or maintain the individual’s life skills
• Receive the supervision needed
• Maximize their self-sufficiency
• Increase their self-determination
• Enjoy opportunities to become part of the community – like volunteering, working and participating in social outings with friends.

Alternative Family Living teaches individuals skills to achieve independence

Our Alternative Family Living program teaches skills including:

  • Cooking healthy meals
  • Taking care of their personal space
  • Taking care of their personal hygiene
  • Socializing with friends, family and when in the community
Alternative family Living client with glasses smiling

Here’s what individuals are saying…

“Becoming an AFL host has changed my life for the best. It has taken a job I care about and transformed it into something I could not have dreamed. I now enjoy a fuller life doing things I enjoy with someone special.”

Be a part of our story.