Shared Living provides an opportunity for people with developmental disabilities to live in their community with people, not in a program. Shared Living’s uniqueness is its ability to offer the richness of family life as the foundation for personal, social and emotional growth. Individuals live in natural, home settings, the base from which to learn life skills and participate fully in community life. The heart of Shared Living is the process of identifying and supporting mutually agreeable matches that meet the needs, values and vision of the individual with disabilities, his or her family and/or guardian, and those of the Shared Living Provider Family. Individuals or families interested in becoming Shared Living Providers undergo an in-depth evaluation conducted by the Shared Living Review Committee. Once a single or multi-member family becomes certified and a placement is made, the provider and the individual receive ongoing support from a professional Shared Living team including home visits, consultation, counseling, peer networking, and much more. Certified Providers receive compensation for providing care and supports to an individual placed in their home. Providers are evaluated every two years. The program is offered to individuals who are eligible for funding through the Massachusetts Department of Mental Retardation. Family members of individuals with disabilities overwhelmingly support Shared Living. John’s sister speaks for so many of LifeLinks’ families when she says: “Nadine is a woman who truly cares for my brother; she has devoted her life to making his life a more enjoyable one. She is the least selfish person I have ever met” This is a common sentiment expressed by families regarding LifeLinks providers. For more information about Shared Living please call: 978.459.6179 extension 614