FAQ for Sponsors

It is the mission of CAA and the Sponsored Residential Program to provide individuals with disabilities and their families an alternative to out of home placement after individuals have aged out of programs.  We aim to provide an environment in which personal choice, dignity, and inclusion are honored to promote overall quality of life.

Becoming a Sponsor Family can add joy and provide security to both the individual and the Sponsor family.  The process to Sponsorship has 3 components,

1. Hiring and training the Sponsor.
2. Licensing the home- this can be done in tandem with the Sponsor training.
3. Matching the Sponsor to the individual and completion of service authorization of the individual.

The process generally begins with an in-person meeting with the Field Supervisor.  During this meeting you can ask all questions you may have about becoming a Sponsor.  Here are the 10 frequently asked questions to help you get started.

1.  Why should I choose CAA as my provider?

In one word: Support. Counseling and Advocacy Associates understands that for Sponsors to provide quality care to the Individual, the Sponsor will need support.  CAA understands the commitment and immense responsibility being a Sponsor requires.  As a company we are committed to supporting our Sponsors with training, positive behavior support, and guidance however needed.

CAA provides each Sponsor with the following,
• All required trainings
• 24-hour CRISIS intervention
• 24-hour on-call service for behavior supports and assistance during emergency situations
• Weekly supervision meetings with Field Supervisor and hands on assistance if needed
• Monthly Sponsor team meeting to help Sponsor develop natural supports
• Assistance with case management medical and psychological appointments
• Assistance with community engagement

2.  What are the basic requirements to become a Sponsor?

• Education: Must possess a minimum of a GED or high school diploma
• Experience: Must have at least one year of documented experience working with an individual with intellectual or developmental disabilities
• Age: At least 25 years of age
• Financial Capacity- 90 days reserve of the Sponsor’s own expenses. This must be independent of payments received for residents living in the home.  Financials will be checked quarterly
• Trainings: All trainings must be completed prior to service.  Trainings will be provided or coordinated by CAA
• Driver’s license and safe driving record

Additional requirements are listed in the Sponsored Residential Welcome Packet and can be discussed in further detail during the Sponsor Information Meeting.

3.  How long does it take to become a Sponsored Residential Provider?

The Sponsor onboarding process generally takes 3 to 6 months.  The length of time it takes to become a Sponsor is dependent on many factors.
• Sponsor motivation
• Efficiency of paperwork
• Training completion time
• Condition of the home
• Licensing inspector’s availability
• Availability of a matched individual

4.  How do I receive payment?

As a Sponsor you are an Independent Contractor for CAA.  Sponsored Residential providers are paid bi-weekly, every other Friday.

5.  What is a DSP and do I have to become a DSP?

A DSP is a Direct Support Professional.  A DSP is a person that is trained to support people in their home and community.  DSPs must have a high school diploma or equivalent and at least 1 year of providing care to an individual with medically diagnosed disabilities.  DSP training is a 2-part process, the first requirement is a written test which is completed during the orientation and the second involves an anecdotal competency to be completed by the Field Supervisor within 180 days of Sponsors start date. DSP competencies are reviewed annually.

6.  How can I learn more about required trainings?

All onboarding trainings are provided and paid for by CAA.  Each DSP is required to have 25 hours of training per year.  After the first year CAA provides some training and assist DSP with finding additional quality, useful, trainings.  Free trainings are also shared with all Sponsors.

7.  Will I be taxed on the Sponsored Residential income?

CAA cannot offer tax advice or guidance.  CAA Field Supervisor will share tax resources for Sponsors to help in understanding the tax implications related to the Form-1099 you will receive at the end of the year to show your compensation as a Sponsor.  We recommend you review this information with your accountant.  Additional information will be provided during the initial meeting.

8.  Will the individual pay Room and Board?

Yes, the Sponsor will be paid Room and Board.  The amount of Room and Board is a determined by the Sponsor and the individual.  The average range is between $400.00 and $600.00 per month.

9.  Can I sponsor my family member?

Yes, a family member can be a Sponsor.  The individual must have the Community Living Waiver.  The Sponsor will need to work with the case manager and physician to document that the Sponsor is the best sponsor option for the individual and why this is so.  Family members typically act as Sponsors when there have been failed group home or Sponsored Residential services in the past.  The Field Supervisor will assist the family with completing necessary documentation throughout the process.

10.  What forms of financial evidence are acceptable for my 90 days of financial capacity?

The follow Financial evidence are acceptable:
• Bank account statement
• Credit line
• Home equity
• Retirement accounts