Opening your home to someone who needs support is more than a service — it’s a relationship built on trust, compassion, and shared everyday moments. In our Host Home program, we call the incredible people who do this work Mentors. And while the name of the service may change from state to state, the heart behind it stays the same.
What Is a Host Home?
A Host Home is a community-based living option where an individual with a disability lives in a private home with a carefully matched provider, we call Mentors. Instead of a large setting, support happens in a real home — around the dinner table, during family outings, and in the small, meaningful routines of daily life.
Our Mentors provide guidance encouragement, and support while helping individuals build independence, confidence, and connection. It’s about creating belonging — not just providing care.
Different Names, Same Purpose
Depending on the state, you may hear different terms for Host Home services. While the titles vary, each one reflects the same core idea: safe, supportive living in a family environment. Arizona, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Minnesota, Missouri, Nevada, and Texas all use the name Host Home. Other states use a different name:
- California: Family Home Agency
- Kentucky: Family Homes
- Massachusetts: Adult Foster Care Provider
- Nevada: Shared Living
- New Mexico: Family Living Supports
- Ohio: Shared Living
- Pennsylvania: Life Sharing Provider
- Tennessee: Family Model Homes
- Virginia: Sponsored Home Provider
No matter the name, these programs are built on meaningful relationships and individualized support.
Could You Be a Mentor?
Across the country — whether it’s called Shared Living, Sponsored Home, Family Homes, or Host Home — compassionate people are making a difference by opening their homes.
If you have room in your heart and home, becoming a Mentor could be one of the most meaningful journeys you take. It’s not just about providing support. It’s about building a life together — one shared meal, one milestone, and one moment at a time.
Because no matter what your state calls it, the mission is the same: creating homes where everyone belongs.
Mentors received a monthly stipend to help cover the cost of care.