Join the Ability First Team | View Opportunities
Join the Ability First Team | View Opportunities
A Person-Centered, Home-Based Alternative That Builds Stability and Meaningful Relationships
At Ability First, we provide Family Living Services in New Mexico designed for adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities who thrive in a stable, home-based environment with consistent caregivers.
Family Living is built on long-term relationships, person-centered planning, and community integration. It offers individuals the opportunity to live in a natural family home setting – while receiving the daily assistance and professional oversight needed to promote safety, independence, and enhanced quality of life.
When a Traditional Living Model Doesn’t Feel Like the Right Fit
Family Living – sometimes referred to as shared living or adult foster care – is a community living service offered through the DD Waiver in New Mexico. It allows adults with developmental disabilities to live in a private family home with one or two primary caregivers, who may be natural family members or approved family living providers.
Unlike larger residential services, Family Living emphasizes:
Families and case management professionals often seek alternatives to traditional Group Homes when an individual would benefit from:
Many adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities want the opportunity to live in a home where they feel known, respected, and included in daily life.
Family Living provides that opportunity – while remaining funded, monitored, and compliant with DD Waiver service delivery requirements.
Family Living Rooted in Safety and Long-Term Stability
At Ability First, our Family Living services are grounded in person-centered care and structured oversight.
Our mission is to add value and stability to the lives of people with developmental disabilities in New Mexico, and to faithfully support the people who care for them.
We carefully match individuals with qualified Family Living providers who:
Family Living is not informal caregiving – it is a professional, funded community living service delivered within a family home environment.
Family Living services may include:
Each service plan is developed through person-centered planning and assessment to reflect the individual’s goals, preferences, age, and support needs.
While Supported Living (or Group Homes) often includes staffed homes with rotating staff members, Family Living offers:
For many individuals with disabilities, this environment enhances their quality of life by promoting belonging, trust, and meaningful companionship.
Both service models prioritize independence, community integration, and person-centered planning, however, Family Living Services may be especially beneficial for individuals who are seeking stability and close connection within a home setting.
Family Living may be a strong fit for adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities who:
It is also a great opportunity for qualified providers who are committed to opening their home and delivering professional care within a regulated and supported framework.
Ability First actively recruits and trains Family Living providers across New Mexico.
Providers must:
This is a meaningful opportunity for individuals who are committed to supporting adults with developmental disabilities in a long-term, relationship-centered setting.
If you are interested in becoming a Family Living provider, we invite you to contact our team to learn more about qualifications and next steps.
As a provider serving New Mexico since 2004, Ability First emphasizes:
We serve both individuals and providers intentionally, because we believe that strong caregiver support leads to better outcomes for the people we serve.
At Ability First, we offer a coordinated network of services designed to support adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout New Mexico. Each service is grounded in person-centered care, thoughtful assessment, and professional service delivery.
Structured, community-based residential services that promote independence while maintaining safety and oversight.
A relationship-centered model of care within a private family home environment.
Temporary support services that provide relief for families and caregivers while ensuring continuity of care.
Personalized assistance delivered in an individual’s own home to promote daily independence and community participation.
Support with job development, skill-building, and meaningful employment opportunities within the community.
Structured, community-based day services designed to build life skills, encourage social connection, and promote meaningful participation in daily activities.
Professional health monitoring and medical support tailored to individual needs.
Together, these services form a comprehensive continuum of support that allows individuals to access the right level of care at the right time – while promoting autonomy, stability, and enhanced quality of life.
We proudly serve residents in:
If you are exploring Family Living Services in New Mexico under the DD Waiver, or if you are interested in becoming a Family Living provider, our team is here to assist you.
Ability First is committed to promoting independence, enhancing quality of life, and building stable, supportive home environments for adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities throughout New Mexico.
