Our Program

About the Program

The Sponsored Homes program provides safe, community-based residential services and supervision for adults with Developmental Disabilities. Individuals served reside in an approved home of their choice and pursue the life experiences they desire in a safe and supportive setting. Sponsors also provide transportation for needed medical, financial, and other appointments.

Our Clients

We offer services to adults age 18 and over with a documented diagnosis of a Developmental Disability who are able to be safely served and desire services in a family home setting. Individuals must have a Community Living Medicaid Waiver slot or the ability to self-pay for services. Each person referred is evaluated individually to determine if they can benefit from the services offered.

What Makes Us Different

The Sponsored Homes program trains potential caregivers to provide Medicaid and DBHDS compliant residential services in a Sponsored Home setting, including training in medication assistance, first aid, crisis intervention, and human rights. We also inspect and supervise the homes providing services and provide regular oversight by QDDPs once an Individual is admitted to the program. Our team strives to assure each Individual accepted is able to live in the home that best serves their needs, desires, and fully promotes their integration into the community. All staff, Sponsors, and Substitute care providers are subject to full background checks and regular reviews.

Dispute Resolution for Individual Served

Our Impact

The Up Center’s Sponsored Homes program provides safe, community-based living for adults with Developmental Disabilities. With trained caregivers and regular oversight, the program ensures that individuals can live in a supportive home, pursue their goals, and stay connected to the community.

In 2023,

99%

of clients have achieved stable community placement for two years or more.

79 individuals

with developmental disabilities were residing in Sponsored Homes in their communities rather than in an institutional setting.

95%

of clients served have shown increased independent living skills in at least one area.

True Stories

“God bless them, The Up Center really came along just at the perfect time. The Up Center provides so much for me and Billy – they are professionals, they know about communications systems, behavior management, and teach me how to act and react in a crisis situation. I have people I can turn to no matter what the problem.”

—Bill C., parent of adult son with autism

Contact Us

If you are interested in either training to become a Sponsored Home Provider or in referring yourself of an individual for services, please contact us at:

Location: 580 E. Main Street, Suite 400, Norfolk, VA 23510

Phone: (757) 965-8631

Fax: (757) 640-8402

Email: sponsoredhomes@theupcenter.org

Please click here to review our client grievance and complaint process.

Our Mission

We are committed to partnering with children, families, and communities to improve lives and outcomes through prevention, intervention, and support services.

Sponsored Homes