Job Description

*CARE/RESPITE PROVIDERS NEEDED IN THE FOLLOWING MA COUNTIES: BERKSHIRE, HAMPSHIRE, FRANKLIN, AND HAMDPEN

Please note: While this ad is about one individual in particular, we have other individuals looking for Shared Living homes. If Shared Living sounds like something you want to learn more about, please click on the link found at the bottom of this posting to fill out an Interest Form and a Pathlight staff member will be in contact with you.

ABOUT PATHLIGHT

Pathlight (formerly known as The Association For Community Living) has been supporting and empowering individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities (and their families) in Western Massachusetts since 1952.

ABOUT BEING A CARE PROVIDER

For those that aren\'t aware, Shared Living is a service model in which an individual with developmental disabilities moves in with a person, couple, or family. The Care Providers receive a tax-free stipend and the knowledge they are making a positive difference in the lives of others, while the individuals can live and grow in a home-based situation and experience the everyday activities of family and community life. A WIN-WIN SCENARIO!

When making a placement, we consider both the Care Provider\'s qualities and home dynamic, as well as the needs and personality of the individual they care for. The goal is always to create that "perfect match." When that\'s done, it\'s really a positive experience for all involved (We have placements that have lasted 40+ years!). Ideal candidates for this role would have skills in working with individuals with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities (though not required), be able to establish clear and consistent routines, set reasonable limits, and provide structure.

If you are not ready to have an individual move into your home full-time, we also are looking for Respite Providers. Respite Providers offer short-term relief for primary Care Providers. The length of time for respite care varies depending on the need- it could be anything from just a day to a few weeks.

CARE PROVIDER BENEFITS:

• Generous, TAX-FREE, Monthly Stipend
• Respite Care
• Ongoing training & education
• Responsive case management
• Support from clinical staff and consultants
• 24-hour back-up in the event of an emergency
• Satisfaction of making the difference in someone\'s life

INFORMATION TO KNOW ABOUT THE INDIVIDUAL NEEDING A SHARED LIVING HOME:

Pathlight is seeking a couple (could also be one person if it was a good match) to be the Care Providers for a man we support through our Shared Living program. For the sake of anonymity, we\'ll call him D.

As D. currently lives in Hampden County and attends his day program in Agawam, we are looking for a Care Provider in the Springfield/Westfield/Agawam area.

What type of homes would be a good fit for D. specifically? Check out our Q&A section below to learn more!

• FIRST THINGS FIRST, HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE D.?: D.loves to laugh, so right off the bat that should tell you a lot about his personality! He\'s VERY friendly and easy-going.
• OUR SPARE BEDROOM IS ON THE 2ND CAN D. GO UP STAIRS?: Due to his gait and other medical conditions, D. will need to have a bedroom and bathroom on the first floor. If possible, he would have access to a walk-in shower and wouldn\'t have to navigate many steps in the home.
• I HAVE CHILDREN, WILL THAT BE AN ISSUE?: D. would prefer to live in a home without children.
• WHAT ABOUT PETS?: D. loves dogs! Though best matches would be homes with smaller dogs, as he might lose his balance and fall if a larger dog were to bump into him. He also sometimes likes cats.
• DO I NEED TO HELP WITH TRANSPORTATION? Although all Care Providers should be willing and able to help with transportation needs when necessary, D. goes to a day program during the week and they provide the rides.
• WHAT KIND OF SUPPORTS WOULD D. NEED?: D\'s Care Providers should be mindful of the fact that he struggles to walk long distances. Additionally, as his seizure disorder is maintained be medication and a health body weight, he will need help with portion control when eating. At times D. can struggle with articulation, so it\'s also important for Care Providers to be patient and understanding of this.
• WHAT ARE SOME OF D.\'S INTERESTS?: D.loves to listen to music (especially the 50\'s/60\'s genre), whether that\'s doing so while unwinding on the porch or attending a live show - he\'s all for it! He also enjoys watching Wheel of Fortune, going to the park, and attending car shows. As far as his favorite meals go, he would rank Chicken Parm and Chinese Food at the top of his list! The main thing to know about D. is he just genuinely loves and appreciates being included in activities and day to day living; being a part of a family.

IS CARE GIVING FOR YOU?

Common attributes of Care Providers consist of an ability to understand the individual\'s viewpoint; set boundaries; provide structure; be open, honest, and stable; function easily as part of a team; be involved in their community; be flexible as everyone\'s needs and abilities change with personal growth. Successful care providers are highly motivated to make a difference in the lives of others.

WHO WE SERVE

The people we are privileged to serve are of all ages and abilities. They may have extensive physical disabilities, intellectual disabilities, require medical involvement, or they may need minimal assistance.

HOW TO APPLY

If interested, call 413-731-4548 or visit and fill out a Shared Living Interest form!

Pathlight Group

Pathlight