This document provides information about host home providers. It defines a host home provider as an independent contractor responsible for the well-being and care of an individual with disabilities in their home. The host home provider is expected to integrate the individual into their family life, provide room and board, and support the individual's independence and needs as outlined in their individual plan. Responsibilities include teaching life skills, maintaining a safe home, transportation, medication administration, and documentation. Host home providers are chosen based on their relationship with the individual and undergo background and home checks. Training is required before becoming a provider. Rates are set by the state based on the individual's level of needs.

1. Host Home Provider
Information

2. A Host Home Family!

3. What is a Host Home Provider?
A host home provider is a mentor, teacher, and
companion to another person.
A host home provider is responsible for the well-being
of the individual, providing a safe and nurturing home
that provides the most independence possible.
A host home provider is an independent contractor with
whom MVDS contracts to provide a client with
disabilities room & board, as well as other residential
services and supports required by either regulation or
the client’s IP (individual plan). The client is fully
integrated into the host home provider’s family life, both
at home and in the community. Host home providers
may not be biologically related to the client they are
providing services to.

4. A Host Home gives individuals an alternative to
group homes or institutional placements. The
concept is outcome oriented and focuses on
building relationships in the community, the
family, and one’s personal life. This is a
rewarding experience that enriches the lives of
everyone in the home.
Host Home: What is the benefit?

5. • Teaching independent living skills
• Maintaining a clean and safe living environment
• Meal preparation
• Self-administration of medication, or you may be required
to administer medications
• Transporting individuals to activities and/or appointments
• Maintain record keeping and all documentation as required
by the agency and state regulations
• Additional responsibilities specific to the individual’s needs
Responsibilities

6. A Host Home Outing!

7. No: the host home provider is an independent contractor. An
independent contractor is responsible for their own taxes, medical
insurance, worker’s compensation, and general liability. The host home
provider is not entitled to any benefits of employment from MVDS, and
MVDS employees cannot simultaneously be host home providers.
The host home provider is free from the direction and control of MVDS,
except to the extent required by regulation and statute. MVDS provides
regular in-home monitoring to make sure the home setting is safe, clean,
and that all documentation is completed regularly.
The expectations of the host home provider are set forth in the
contract, and MVDS relies upon the expertise of the provider in
performing the required services.
Is a Host Home Provider an employee of
Mountain Valley Developmental Services?

8. MVDS often recruits host home providers who already
have an established supportive relationship with the
client being considered for placement, such as previous
employees, or people who have worked with this
population. Such relationships increase the likelihood of
a successful long-term placement.
However, MVDS has several successful host home
providers who have not been previous employees. When
it is determined you are a good fit, reference and
background checks are conducted for all potential
providers. Criminal background checks are also required
for everyone over the age of 18 who resides in the home.
An in-home HUD inspection is also done.
How is a Host Home Provider Chosen?
*HUD: US Dept. of Housing and Urban Development

9. It is also critical that the potential client
visits the provider’s home several times,
including overnights, to make sure there is a
good rapport and that this is the right
placement. It is important that all parties
(client, family/guardians/ IDT members
and provider) are making an informed
decision regarding placement. Please note
that all visits must be documented.
The right match is a
mutual decision

10. Payment depends on the level of need and care
the individual requires. Each rate is fixed by
the State of Colorado, and is based upon the
support needs of the client. MVDS retains a
portion of the rate to cover support services,
such as nursing, behavior and administrative
supports. The starting rate a host home
provider is paid, for one client needing very
little assistance, is approx. $1850 per month.
The greater the need, the higher the rate.
Rate of Pay

11. Host Home Fun!

12. It is the responsibility of the host home
provider to arrange for back-up residential
services when needed. Respite caregivers must
be qualified and have the appropriate training.
Most host home providers use MVDS staff
members, or staff members from other
approved service agencies, other host home
providers, or qualified independent contractors.
MVDS can assist you in developing a list of
qualified respite caregivers.
Vacations, Emergencies, etc.

13. There are several classes required before you can become a
host home provider. Classes are taught at MVDS, and
conducted by our Training Manager. Please note you are
not paid for this training.
1. Rights/MANE class: covers client’s legal and individual
rights, and your responsibility as a provider. (4 hours)
2. Bloodborne Pathogens: video about safe handling
practices. (20 minutes)
3. Therap: Our electronic documentation system. (2 hours)
4. Medication Administration class: if the client takes
medication, you must take and pass a 2 day class (16 hours)
Other training may be required.
Training

14. Please complete and submit an application.
You may drop it off at the MVDS agency,
700 Mount Sopris Dr., Glenwood Springs,
or
email it to Sarah Simms,
sarahsimms@mtnvalley.org
Interested? Wonderful!
Blank applications can be found on our
website, mtnvalley.org, under the Careers tab