Give him a home.
Opening a group home for the disabled may be a calling for you. The disabled have accessibility, social and rehabilitation needs. Sometimes the family cannot provide all of those needs, and sometimes the disabled may not have family to give them supported care. You can supply potential residents with a support system and give them the opportunity to live in a safe, accessible home. Find out how you can start a group home that benefits the disabled and their families. The rewards are priceless.
Instructions
Start a Disabled Group Home
1. Contact a Social Service agency such as the Department of Human Services (DHS) or a private charity such as Catholic Social Services or Lutheran Social Services. You need a license to open a group home, so ask for an application packet, rules and regulations handbook, and any other paperwork or information you need.
2. Find housing that meets licensing and inspection requirements. Contact the zoning department in your city to find out if you can open a group home in that area. Your group home must pass inspection to ensure it is safe and suitable to serve the disabled. An inspector comes to your group home and evaluates the home on accessibility, safety, sanitation, space, equipment, furnishings, and provision of care among others.
3. Attend the workshop or other licensing sessions required for licensure. You have the opportunity to ask questions and get additional information. These sessions are formal, but you can also get personalized support through other licensed attendees. You may need to attend these sessions again when you renew your license. Make a contact list for those who are willing to help or advise you, and get referrals for staff and other workers for your group home.
4. Apply for grants and seek funding for your group home. Government grants are available, and Social Services can give you more information on funding your group home. Some group homes charge the residents directly, while other homes rely only on private and public funds. Open a separate bank account, and keep all financial records for at least 3 years for tax purposes. Evaluate your budget regularly, and make changes as needed.
5. Renew your license. About 60 days before your license expires, prepare for license renewal by contacting Social Services for reinsertion and other requirements. Ask about any new provisions or other requirements that have changed since you received your license. Do not allow your license to expire, unless you have contacted DHS about your decision not to renew, as the disabled residing in the home need placement.
Tags: group home, your license, Social Services, your group, your group home, Disabled Group
