Since 2017, Beth Ann and Adrienne Hayman have shared a home through KenCrest's Lifesharing program. What began as a residential match grew into something much deeper: a relationship built on trust, shared experiences, and genuine connection.
Today, Beth Ann is a beloved member of Adrienne's extended family. She dances at family gatherings, celebrates birthdays alongside relatives, and has become such a central part of family life that Adrienne often jokes people ask for Beth Ann before they ask for her.
Stories like Beth Ann and Adrienne's are at the heart of Lifesharing Awareness Month.
More Than a Place to Live
Lifesharing creates opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to build meaningful relationships while living in a family setting. Every match is unique because every person is unique.
For some, Lifesharing means becoming part of a new family. For others, it means strengthening existing family connections or finding support that makes everyday life more sustainable.
That's what Amanda and John discovered when they explored medically complex Lifesharing for their daughter, Fern. After years of navigating intensive medical needs, therapies, and hospital stays, the family found a support system that helped them imagine new possibilities and feel less alone in their journey.
For Joanne and her Lifesharing provider, Centelia Braxton, it meant creating a home together after finding the right match. After months of waiting, Centelia knew Joanne was the right fit. Their partnership has grown through shared experiences, routines, and the opportunity to build a life together.
Every story looks different, but they all share something important: relationships.
A Life Shared
Since 1985, KenCrest's Lifesharing program has connected more than 140 people with disabilities and Lifesharing providers across Pennsylvania. Some partnerships have lasted decades.
What makes Lifesharing special isn't the length of time people spend together. It's the everyday moments shared along the way.
It's celebrating birthdays.
It's family vacations and holiday traditions.
It's cheering one another on through challenges and milestones.
It's being part of a community where people know your favorite restaurant, notice when you're missing, and welcome you exactly as you are.
This Lifesharing Awareness Month, we're celebrating the many individuals, families, and providers who open their homes, hearts, and lives to one another every day.
Because at its best, Lifesharing isn't simply about support.
It's about belonging.
Belonging starts with connection.
Lifesharing is about more than where someone lives. It's about relationships, community, and having people who celebrate life's everyday moments alongside you.
Interested in learning more? We'd love to talk with you.
Read More Stories From KenCrest
Let's Keep in Touch
Join the KenCrest team and stay updated on the latest news in the disability community, inspiring stories, and ways you can help us make a difference in the lives of people with an intellectual or developmental disability.