As a Family Model Provider for NIA Association, you will welcome an adult with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (I/DD) into your home, providing long-term, family-style residential support. This role is focused on promoting health, safety, autonomy, and meaningful community integration in a nurturing, person-centered living environment.   

  Residential Living Supports 

• Offer a stable, inclusive home setting that promotes dignity, safety, and comfort. 
• Engage the person in household routines and shared living experiences. 
• Cultivate a sense of belonging through inclusive family practices, such as shared meals, holidays, and recreational activities. 
• Provide emotional support, encouragement, and companionship. 

Individualized Daily Support 

• Assist with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), as specified in the individual’s Person-Centered Support Plan (PCSP). 
• Encourage decision-making, advocacy, and development of independent living skills. 
• Support the use of assistive and enabling technologies to foster autonomy. 
• Communicate consistently with NIA Association’s Case Managers and care team. 

Compliance & Documentation 

• Adhere to the HCBS 1915(c) Waiver and applicable Medicaid regulations. 
• Complete daily documentation using NIA-approved platforms (e.g., Therap, EMAR). 
• Ensure compliance with state licensing and policy requirements, including participation in reviews, assessments, and quality monitoring. 
• Accurately report incidents, medication administration, and any PCSP-related exceptions or changes. 
• Fulfill mandated reporting duties for suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation. 

Community Engagement 

• Promote the individual’s inclusion in community life, relationships, and opportunities. 
• Plan and support access to safe, meaningful community activities and events. 
• Assist with transportation or help the individual navigate local transit options. 
• Encourage participation in volunteer, social, spiritual, or employment-related pursuits. 

Required Training All providers must complete NIA-required training, including: 

• Person-Centered Practices 
• Medication Administration (if applicable) 
• Annual compliance training (Relias or other approved modules) 
• Emergency Preparedness & Critical Incident Reporting 
• Any other trainings designated by NIA or regulatory bodies 

Qualifications 

• Demonstrated commitment to supporting individuals with I/DD 
• Stable, safe, and welcoming home environment with appropriate space 
• Strong interpersonal communication and problem-solving skills 
• At least 18 years of age 
• Valid driver’s license and proof of auto insurance (TN minimum coverage) 
• Clear background checks per T.C.A. § 33-2-1202 
• Not listed on the TN Abuse Registry, Sexual Offender Registry, FOIL, or OIG Exclusion Lists 
• Ability to complete required training and maintain records in English 

Performance & Partnership Expectations NIA Association values performance-based partnerships. Providers are expected to: 

• Maintain timely and accurate documentation 
• Actively participate in care coordination and training 
• Consistently implement person-centered practices 
• Maintain high standards of care and communication Continued partnership is contingent upon meeting or exceeding these expectations. 

Emergency Protocols 

• Adhere to the emergency procedures outlined in the NIA Provider Handbook 
• Immediately notify Case Management of incidents such as hospitalization, law enforcement involvement, or other critical events 
• Cooperate in arranging temporary respite or backup support if needed 

Pre-Contract Requirements Prior to placement, providers must: 

• Complete a Provider Home Profile (including household info, layout, accessibility, lifestyle) 
• Undergo a home walkthrough 
• Submit required background checks and training certifications 
• Review and acknowledge the Provider Handbook 

Supervision and Support You will report directly to your assigned NIA Program Coordinator, who will support your success through oversight, coaching, and compliance monitoring.