SMILE Provides PersonCentered

Residential Services

Person centered residential services are supports designed so that the individual—not the
program—directs how they live, who they live with, what their day looks like, and what matters
most to them. The goal is to help adults with IDD live as independently, safely, and meaningfully
as possible in a home that feels like their home because it is.
These services are built around choice, dignity, autonomy, and community inclusion, not
“one size fits all” routines.

SMILE Core Principles of
Person Centered Residential Services

1. The Person Leads Their Life
• The individual chooses daily routines, meals, clothing, activities, and goals.
• Staff support preferences, not impose schedules.

2. Homes Feel Like Homes — Not Facilities
• Small, communityintegrated homes (often 1–4 people).
• Individuals decorate their rooms, host visitors, and participate in household decisions.
• Staff emphasize identity, belonging, and pride in one’s home.

3. Supports Are Tailored to the Individual
Services are based on the Individual Support Plan (ISP), which outlines:

• Personal goals
• Health needs
• Communication style
• Behavioral supports
• Community interests
• Safety needs
• Skills to build or maintain

4. Community Inclusion Is a Priority
People are supported to:
• Work or volunteer
• Attend community events
• Build friendships
• Access recreation, faith communities, and local resources
• Use public spaces and services like anyone else

5. Skill Building and Independence
Staff help individuals learn or maintain skills such as:
• Cooking
• Money management
• Transportation
• Social skills
• Personal care
• Household tasks

6. Safety Without Restricting Freedom
Supports balance:
• Dignity of risk (allowing people to make choices and learn)
• Health and safety (medication, mobility, supervision needs)

7. Respect for Culture, Identity, and Communication
Staff adapt to:
• Cultural preferences
• Communication styles
• Sensory needs
• Trauma informed practices

 Types of Person Centered Residential Options at SMILE

1. Community Residential Alternatives (CRA)
• Small group homes (1–4 people)
• 24/7 support
• Focus on independence, daily living skills, and community access

2. Community Living Supports (CLS)
• Person lives in their own home with 1-3 other housemates
• Staff provide scheduled support for daily living, community access, and personal goals

What SMILE Staff Do in Person Centered Residential Services

Residential Services
Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) help individuals:
• Make choices and express preferences
• Participate in community life
• Build skills and independence
• Manage health needs
• Maintain safety
• Navigate relationships
• Advocate for them selves

DSPs also:
• Follow the ISP
• Use positive behavior supports
• Respect autonomy and dignity
• Support communication in all forms
• Promote inclusion and self determination