Stevenson's Story: Finding Independence and Community with Homies
From Group Home to His Own Home
For years, Stevenson lived in a group home—one of thousands of adults with developmental disabilities in California facing limited choices about where and how they live.
But Stevenson wanted more. He wanted his own space. He wanted to make his own choices. He wanted a real life in the community.
That's when his family found Homies.
The Homies Difference
What makes life-sharing different from a group home? Everything.
In a group home, you share space with multiple residents and rotating staff. Decisions are made for you. Your schedule is someone else's schedule.
With a supportive roommate, you have:
Your own apartment — A real home, not a facility
One consistent person — Someone who knows you, not rotating staff
Real choices — What to eat, when to go out, how to spend your time
Community connection — A life in the neighborhood, not isolated from it
For Stevenson, this shift meant everything.
Living Life to the Fullest
Since moving into his own place with his supportive roommate, Stevenson has been living his best life:
Surfing in San Diego — Catching waves and building confidence in the water
Community events — From holiday parties to neighborhood activities
Real friendships — Building genuine connections, not just "receiving services"
Independence — Making decisions about his own life, every day
The photo above shows Stevenson at a local surf program—arms spread wide, grinning from ear to ear. That's what independence looks like.
Holiday Celebrations and Everyday Joy
One of the best parts of life-sharing? Celebrating together.
At last year's holiday gathering, Stevenson proudly showed off his gingerbread house creation. Surrounded by friends and staff who genuinely care, he was beaming—the kind of joy that comes from belonging somewhere.
These aren't just "activities." They're moments that make up a full life.
What This Means for Families
Stevenson's story shows what's possible when someone has the right support:
Real Independence Is Achievable
You don't have to choose between safety and freedom. With the right supportive roommate, adults with developmental disabilities can live independently while having the support they need.
Group Homes Aren't the Only Option
Many families don't know that life-sharing exists. It's funded by Regional Center through Supported Living Services (SLS)—the same system that funds group homes, but with a completely different model.
The Right Match Makes All the Difference
Stevenson thrives because he has a roommate who gets him. Someone who supports his interests, encourages his independence, and shows up every day as a genuine companion.
Starting Your Own Journey
If you or someone you love is looking for alternatives to group home living, contact us. We'll help you understand your options and see if life-sharing could be the right fit.
Every person deserves a real home. Every person deserves genuine connection. Every person deserves the chance to live their best life.
Stevenson found his. You can too.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can someone leave a group home to live independently?
Yes. With the right support services, many adults with developmental disabilities can transition from group homes to independent living. Regional Center can fund supportive roommate services through SLS.
What support does a person need for life-sharing?
It varies by individual. Some people need help with daily tasks like cooking and medication reminders. Others need companionship and transportation. Homies matches each person with a roommate who can provide what they specifically need.
Is life-sharing funded by Regional Center?
Yes. Life-sharing through Homies is funded by California Regional Centers through Supported Living Services (SLS). For most families, there's no out-of-pocket cost for the support services.
How do I know if life-sharing is right for my family member?
Start with a conversation. Contact us to discuss your family member's needs, preferences, and goals. We'll help you understand whether life-sharing could be a good fit.
Looking for alternatives to group home living? Contact Homies to learn how life-sharing could help your family member live more independently.