The SAIL Housing Guide was developed with the belief that parents, by working together and supported by a community, can become the architects of an individual’s housing solution. Each housing solution may look different based upon the individual needs and circumstances of the families; however, SAIL has outlined a series of common steps and milestones for consideration in creating a safe and sustainable housing solution.
Become a member of SAIL to access the complete SAILing to Your IDD Housing Solution guide and companion resources. For an overview of what is included in the guide, see a brief description below.
The diagram below describes the SAILing to Your IDD Housing Solution series of common steps when developing a housing solution.
Please keep in mind that what follows describes a process, not the process that must be followed by all parents seeking an IDD Housing Solution. SAIL recognizes that everyone’s journey towards a housing solution is different. By referencing this process, SAIL hopes to present parents with both the Big Picture and specific items for consideration.
1. Charting Your Course
Before setting off on your journey towards an IDD Housing Solution, it is important to understand what lies ahead and what will be asked of you along your voyage. Creating an IDD Housing Solution is not meant to be done alone. This is not a solo journey across the high seas, but rather a journey that will involve commitment and collaboration in the pursuit of future independence. To succeed in developing a solution where an individual can live independently, starting with a realistic understanding of what is required is recommended. In the Charting Your Course step, you took a deep look within yourself to understand the journey ahead.
2. Preparing to SAIL
Just as experienced sailors thoroughly inspect all parts of their vessel before setting off on a seafaring voyage, it is important to know what will keep you afloat during your IDD Housing Solution journey and provide a stable and lasting foundation for an individual. To the sailor, the Keel, Hull, and Mast work in harmony to provide stability, direction, and a safe expedition. Resources in this step include effectively managing Financial Assets, obtaining Government Benefits, and developing an effective Person Centered Plan.
3. Find Your Mates
Now you’re ready to put your boat in the water and cast off towards your Housing Solution. The SAIL Find Your Mates step promotes working with others towards a common IDD Housing Solution. SAIL refers to as Partner Families. Finding potential roommates for your child and compatible collaborative Partner Families can be one of the most challenging aspects of developing an IDD Housing Solution. SAIL provides resources to help guide this process.
4. Explore Housing Cabins
When choosing the type and location of an individual’s new home, the decision will be based on a combination of personal preferences, collaborative choices, and practical realities. The Exploring Housing Cabins resources presents information about various housing models, types of ownership and affordability.
5. Assemble Your Crew
In the Assemble Your Crew, individuals work with their Support Coordinator to update an Individual’s Plan of Service to determine the level of service an individual needs. The resources in this step will help evaluate what staffing models are available, creative ways to find staff, and how to find the right staff to effectively support an individual.
6. Coming Ashore
As an individual prepares for a move, it is important to work closely with an individual on the emotional and practical elements that will help establish a safe and smooth transition to a new home. SAIL has developed a series of helpful resources for its members that can aid individuals for a move and help to establish expectations for the home, roommates and support staff.
7. Running a Tight Ship
The Running a Tight Ship step is a reminder that while individuals may be living in a successful and supportive environment, issues and situations will arise that require attention and collaboration. Establishing and maintaining any type of home is an ongoing process. Resources include effective management of the home, what to do in case of an emergency, and how finance are managed in the home.