Become a Shared Living Contractor

What is Shared Living?

A woman is locked arms with a man with disabilities in a park. They are both smiling at the camera.

Shared Living is more than a lifestyle; it’s a meaningful living arrangement that connects community and family. Founded on the principles of choice, independence, and autonomy, it allows individuals or families to provide supports for someone with intellectual and developmental disabilities in a private family home setting.

In this environment, the Shared Living Contractor becomes a companion, a guide in daily life, an advocate, and a source of support for health, safety, and community engagement. Those who embrace Shared Living often find it leads to positive changes in physical and mental health, personal growth, and overall happiness for the person supported.

Shared Living is an opportunity to create a profound and lasting impact, leading to enriched lives.

Getting Started

Becoming a Contractor begins with a willingness to share your home and extend your family. 

Learn About Shared Living 

  • Talk to Shared Living Contractors
  • Ask questions and do research
  • Request more information through the web form below.

Training & Support

  • JCDS will provide the required training
  • Additional training support will be available through JCDS upon request
  • Ongoing support will be available through JCDS

Making a Positive Placement

  • JCDS will run background checks on anyone in the home over 18
  • An in-home visit will be scheduled to meet you and/or your family
  • You will complete a detailed matching tool survey to help determine compatibility
  • Relationship-building activities will be scheduled to determine continued compatibility

Quality Assurance

  • A licensed Home Visit will be conducted by the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services
  • Once approved, you will be ready to provide supports
  • Quality of care will be assessed through various methods, including home visits.

Contractor Requirements

  • The Contractor must live in Johnson County
  • High School diploma or equivalent
  • Valid Driver’s License and dependable vehicle
  • Proof of home and auto insurance
  • Computer, printer, scanner, and internet access
  • Several basic medical and safety pieces of equipment (fire extinguisher, blood pressure cuff, thermometer, etc.)
  • Contractors must NOT be a Direct Support Provider at any agency, must not have been employed by JCDS within the past 12 months, be the guardian, conservator, DPOA/DMPOA, currently employed by or a board member of JCDS, or a person’s chosen TCM agency.

Contractor Benefits

  • Tax-free monthly payments ranging from $1,000-$8,000. The payment amount will depend on varying factors, including the level of support required and services provided.
  • Additional income for Room and Board (fee determined by Contractor and Person Served)
  • Direct deposit monthly
  • Stable Employment
  • Flexible hours
  • Great life/work balance
  • Choose your own respite providers
  • Required training provided by JCDS
  • Nursing support
  • Dedicated JCDS staff to support Contractors and families along the way
  • The rewarding feeling when goals are celebrated, quality of life is enhanced, inclusiveness is created, and everyone feels valued and connected.

If you are interested in speaking with someone about becoming a Shared Living Contractor, please fill out the request more information form below!