They say the best time to plant a tree is 20 years ago.

The second best time is today. ~ Mark A.

Like so many parents we work with, Mark A. and his wife knew that someday their daughter Erica would no longer be able to live with them at home. Then Mark lost his wife in 2020 … and "someday” became a harsh reality.

“My daughter is now 39,” Mark explains in this 1-minute video, “and she’d lived at home with her mom and me her whole life.”

Unsure how to move forward, Mark signed up for a Residential Assessment. We worked together to make sure Erica was getting the benefits she was entitled to – benefits like Social Security, support services from the state, supported employment, and a Section 8 housing subsidy.

We also talked a lot about what kind of living situation would be right for her … does she want roommates, what type of home would be suitable, where does she want to live, and what type of care she would need.

By answering the 126 questions in the Residential Assessment, Mark was able to clarify his and Erica’s housing vision and articulate what would define "home" for her ... her support needs, the benefits and services she was eligible for, where she would live, and how her new home would support her lifestyle preferences and social activities.

Then, as Mark says, we got “very, very lucky.”

I knew of two families who were setting up a shared living home for their daughters, and they had a third room available for one more housemate.

“Pam called me up and said it looks like Erica might be a good match,” Mark explains.

It really was. All three young women and their families are getting along well, and Erica has settled in beautifully.

“I will be forever grateful.” ~ Mark A.

I love this work I get to do every day, working with parents like Mark. I’m so honored to help families plant those trees, to grow the future they imagine for their Loved One. No matter the challenges you’re facing, we’re here for you. Together, let’s take that first step.

Plant that first tree now; sign up for your free Residential Assessment

We’ve worked with hundreds of families like Mark and Erica. While every situation is unique, most parents and family caregivers have three big questions:

• What does my Loved One need to live outside the family home?
• Who will they live with?
• How will we afford it?

The Residential Assessment helps uncover the answers to these huge questions.

A comprehensive service and benefits review ensures your Loved One is getting the benefits they are entitled to – benefits like Social Security, personal care services from the state, supported employment, and a Section 8 housing subsidy.

A follow-up consultation with one of our Solutions Coordinators outlines the next steps you’ll take while we help you navigate the complex benefits silos of service agencies. Eligible families who are interested can also use our secure Roommate Matching Pool to help them find potential roommates and compatible families.

Our person-centered process is for any family exploring the future for their Loved One with a disability.

For a limited time, Washington State families can take the Residential Assessment at absolutely no cost. If you have a Loved One with IDD who is at least 17 ½ and you live in Washington State, claim your free Residential Assessment today.

Not in Washington State? We can still help. Learn more today.

Free Residential Assessments for Washington families are funded through a grant from the Dan Thompson Memorial Developmental Disabilities Community Account.