What is Lifesharing
KenCrest’s Lifesharing program offers individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities the opportunity to thrive in a nurturing, family-oriented environment. Lifesharing fosters lasting relationships that build self-esteem and promote interdependence. Families open their homes and hearts to individuals, whether biologically related or not, providing a shared, supportive environment.
We currently serve more than 50 Lifesharing families across seven Pennsylvania counties: Berks, Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Lancaster, Montgomery, and Philadelphia. Lifesharing also includes specialized services like birth family Lifesharing and medically complex Lifesharing for children. By joining KenCrest Lifesharing, you help create a richer, more independent life for everyone involved.
Why Choose Lifesharing?
The people we support are always at the center of our Lifesharing program. KenCrest aims to provide high-quality services and support in Lifesharing in the following ways:
- A person-centered individualized plan to help with realizing potential and reaching goals
- Individualized training for your team members and provider family
- Support with medical appointments, medications, and doctors
- Clinical supports, such as behavior therapists and counseling
- Arranging transportation services for easy access to community activities or employment
- Development of relationships in the community
- Support with budgeting
- Coordination of special events, trips, and vacations
What is the Matching Process?
The matching process is key to a successful Lifesharing experience for everyone involved. The matching process begins with an initial meeting to discuss participants' wants, needs, and desires in a Lifesharing family arrangement. If we identify a provider family as a match based on their shared mutual interests, we will arrange a meet and greet so both can get to know one another. The next step will be possible extended visits (day, overnight, weekend, and two weeks).
After a few visits, our Lifesharing team will meet with the participant, the new Lifesharing Family, and the supports coordinator to discuss proceeding and set a move-in date.
Read Stories About KenCrest's Lifesharing
Become a Lifesharing Provider Today!
Lifesharing providers help individuals set goals, pursue dreams, and create life plans. We are actively seeking provider families, including single providers, to join the Lifesharing experience while continuing to nurture relationships with our long-term Lifesharing families.
Contact Us
If you or someone you know is interested in taking part in Lifesharing, please contact lifesharing@kencrest.org or 610-487-1582. Or visit our Lifesharing Provider page to learn how to become a provider. For more information Please take a moment to review our intake/referral process.