Could LifeSharing Be Right for You

What if changing someone's life also changed yours?
When Peter and his husband Mike welcomed Larry into their home more than 15 years ago, they thought they were opening their door to someone who needed support.

What they found was a lifelong friendship, countless shared memories, and a relationship that has enriched all of their lives.

Today, Larry is part of the family. They share meals, celebrate holidays, enjoy weekend outings, and support one another through life's milestones.

"Welcoming Larry into our home has been our greatest joy," Peter says.

Stories like Larry's are at the heart of LifeSharing, a unique living arrangement that connects adults with intellectual disabilities or autism with caring individuals and families who are willing to share their homes, communities, and lives.

Elwyn is currently seeking LifeSharing providers throughout Chester, Delaware and Philadelphia counties, where individuals are looking for welcoming homes and meaningful community connections.

If you've ever wondered what LifeSharing is or whether becoming a LifeSharing provider might be right for you, here are answers to some of the most common questions.

What is LifeSharing?
LifeSharing is a living arrangement where an adult with intellectual disabilities or autism becomes part of a welcoming home and supportive household. More than simply providing a place to live, LifeSharing creates opportunities for meaningful relationships, community involvement, and a true sense of belonging.

Each match is thoughtfully planned based on shared interests, personalities, values, and goals. Before moving in together, individuals and providers spend time getting to know one another through visits, conversations, and shared activities.

What does a LifeSharing provider do?
LifeSharing providers share everyday life with an individual while supporting their goals, independence, and participation in the community.

Depending on the individual, this may include:

• Sharing meals and activities
• Encouraging independence and personal growth
• Supporting community involvement
• Helping build life skills
• Creating a stable, welcoming home environment

Every LifeSharing relationship looks a little different because every person is unique.

Do I need special experience?
No. Many successful LifeSharing providers come from a variety of professional backgrounds and have never worked in human services before.

The most important qualities are compassion, patience, flexibility, and a willingness to build a meaningful relationship with another person.

Elwyn provides training, guidance, and ongoing support throughout the process. Providers complete a home study, interviews, reference checks, background screenings, and training before being matched.

Who can become a LifeSharing provider?
People are often surprised by the answer. Providers may be:

• Single adults
• Married or partnered couples
• Families with children
• Empty nesters
• Relatives of the individual
• People from any age group, religion, or cultural background

What matters most is creating a safe, supportive, and welcoming home.

What support does Elwyn provide?
You are never expected to navigate the journey alone.

Elwyn's team works alongside every LifeSharing provider and individual, helping everyone feel confident, connected, and supported. Ongoing consultation, coordination, and support are available throughout the relationship.

Our team also works closely with family members, support coordinators, and other partners to help ensure each match is successful.

What makes LifeSharing different from other residential services?
At its core, LifeSharing is about relationships.

While the program provides a safe and supportive place to live, its greatest impact often comes from the connections that develop over time.

For many individuals, LifeSharing means becoming part of a household where they are known, valued, and included in everyday life. For providers, it can mean building a bond that feels like family.

Could LifeSharing be right for me?
You may be a good fit if:

• You have room in your home and life for another person
• You enjoy helping others achieve their goals
• You value connection, community, and relationships
• You are looking for a meaningful way to make a difference
• You are open to learning and growing alongside someone else

You do not need to have all the answers. Many providers begin by simply wanting to learn more.

What is it really like to be a LifeSharing family?

For Peter and Mike, the answer is simple.
"People often say we're doing something amazing, and my response is simple: Larry makes it easy," Peter says.

Larry is known for his love of classic '50s music, volunteering in the community, visiting his favorite local pizza shop, and spending time with friends and family.

Over the years, the relationship between Peter, Mike, and Larry has grown through shared routines, everyday moments, and a genuine sense of connection.

Their story is a reminder that LifeSharing is not just about providing support—it is about creating relationships that enrich everyone's lives.

What happens if I'm interested?
The first step is simply a conversation. Reaching out to learn more does not commit you to becoming a LifeSharing provider. It simply gives you the opportunity to ask questions, understand the process, and determine whether LifeSharing could be a good fit for you and your household.

Ready to Learn More?
LifeSharing begins with a conversation. Whether you're simply curious or actively exploring ways to make a difference, Elwyn's team is here to answer your questions and help you learn more about becoming a LifeSharing provider.

Contact our LifeSharing team today to start the conversation:
Jasmine McGriff,
Senior Director CRS, LifeSharing & In-Home Supports
215-614-9143
Jasmine.McGriff@elwyn.org