Host Homes

A Host Home is a community-based living option where individuals or families welcome a person with disabilities into their home, providing support in a family-like environment and creating a shared living arrangement.

What is a Host Home Mentor?

A Host Home Mentor is a person who is responsible for delivering individualized basic care, supporting the individual's health, and assisting them in engaging with the community, armed with detailed guidance and training provided to ensure they are well-prepared.

How does One Vision match Mentors and Mentees? The level of support required for each individual varies. Therefore, One Vision has implemented a matching process for both the Mentor and the Mentee through a questionnaire. This process promotes open communication and ensures a good fit, fostering a successful and supportive living arrangement.

I'd Like More Information on Host Homes Apply to be a Host Home Mentor

How Does it Work?

For Individuals and Guardians

Matchmaking Lifelong Connections: Empowering Individuals with Disabilities to Thrive

Safe, stable, and compassionate home
Fostering bonds that go beyond care, creating a sense of belonging & family
The opportunity of choice, enhancing independence

FOR MENTORS (Host Home Contractor)

Empowering Individuals with Disabilities: Become a Host Home Mentor today!

Welcome individuals into your home to flourish in a family setting
Empower individuals to achieve their goals
Play a vital role in an individual’s journey to success

Testimonials

Real stories

Jaylin – Host Home Success Story

Jaylin grew up in Rockwell, graduated from Mason City High School and now lives in a One Vision Host Home in Clear Lake, IA. When Jaylin met her significant other, Alec, they were living in two different cities and over time they were able to make living choices that allowed them to both live in Clear Lake. Jaylin chose the Host Home Mentorship option and now she and Alec spend time together attending area hockey games and eating out at local restaurants. Jaylin said she is looking forward to her Host Home Mentors embarking on an upcoming renovation to enhance space in their home to resemble an apartment that she is excited to decorate.

My family and I found the host home program to be a perfect fit. Jay seamlessly integrated into our family dynamic while maintaining her space and individuality." Jessica said, "It's incredibly rewarding to assist Jay in engaging with our community, participating in our family activities, and pursuing her personal goals. We have nothing but positive things to say about the program and Jay herself. We absolutely love hosting her!

Jessica

Host Home Mentor

Who can become a Host Home Mentor and how can I apply?

Our mentors come from diverse backgrounds, yet all share a common commitment to make a positive difference in the life of a person with disabilities. You can start by completing the application. Once submitted, a representative will contact you to guide you through the next steps.

What are the major responsibilities of a Host Homes Mentor?

First and foremost, to provide a safe living environment. Responsibilities will vary but may include administering medications, supporting the individual's health, and advocating for their well-being. Documentation and teamwork are also vital skills necessary for a successful Host Home match.

What is the commitment duration for a host home mentor?

One Vision's goal is to create long-lasting, comfortable matches between Host Home Mentors and individuals. While some placements last decades, others may change over time; therefore, the duration will depend on the evolving needs of both parties.

Can I work a job while being a host home mentor?

The short answer is yes, you can. As long as you can meet the needs of the individual in your care and your employment does not interfere with your ability to provide the required level of care, support, and supervision for the person living in your host home.

Will the individual require constant supervision?

Supervision needs vary. We'll match you with an individual whose level of required support aligns with your lifestyle.

Apply to be a Host Home Mentor

Benefits of Host Homes

85%
Quality of Life: According to the Arc's report on community-based living models, 85% of individuals living in host homes reported feeling a strong sense of belonging and integration into the community, compared to 60% in group home settings.

75%
Community Involvement: Individuals with disabilities in host homes were 75% more likely to be involved in community activities, such as employment, volunteering, or attending local events, compared to those in larger residential facilities (45% involvement rate).

90%
Satisfaction Rates: Research from the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP) indicated that 90% of families and 82% of individuals in host homes expressed satisfaction with their living arrangements, compared to 75% in group homes.

85%
Perception of Safety: Host homes consistently rank higher in perceived safety. A report by the Institute for Community Inclusion (ICI) found that 85% of individuals in host homes felt safe in their living environment, compared to 70% in group homes.

50%
Employment Rates: Host home residents with developmental disabilities showed a 50% higher rate of employment or volunteer work compared to those in institutional settings. According to NCI data, 30-35% of host home residents participated in some form of paid or unpaid work, compared to 20-25% in larger group homes.