Alex and Annika
A Lifelong Bond
Annika, a radiant spirit with an infectious laugh, has been a cherished member of the Shared Wellness community for over 13 years. She is known not just for her love of social gatherings and her rich array of interests, but also for the warmth and humor she brings to every room she enters. Although Annika has a developmental disability, it never defines her. Instead, her zest for life and curiosity make her a beacon of joy and connection.
Across town, Alex, a young professional from Montgomery County, was on her own journey. She first met Annika through Tara, a mutual friend/colleague and Annika’s roommate at the time. Tara and Annika shared a unique bond, thriving on their shared love for social events. Annika spent nearly five great years with Tara, then had another roommate, before Alex and her husband moved in.
As a leader at Shared Wellness and supervisor of the residential programs SW provides, Alex wanted to experience Life sharing for herself so she could better understand it and enhance the program for others, and Annika was the perfect person to share the experience with. The Lifesharing program is a heartfelt initiative where individuals or families open their hearts and share a home with individuals who have developmental disabilities, fostering mutual growth and support.
Alex and Annika began their Lifesharing journey in 2020, creating a home built on trust, shared purpose, and genuine friendship. Four years later, their bond has only grown stronger. Their home is a sanctuary of joyful memories—late-night chats over mint tea, spontaneous adventures, and moments of quiet reflection that speak volumes.
For Annika, Lifesharing is an extension of her independence and a deepening of her connections. For Alex, it is a daily reminder of the power of community and power that each of has to make an impact. Together, they have shown that Lifesharing is not just about sharing a home; it is about sharing life’s moments—both big and small—that create a tapestry of connection and understanding.
Their story is a testament to the transformative power of Lifesharing. It celebrates individuality, fosters meaningful relationships, and creates a profound sense of belonging for everyone involved. Annika and Alex have not just shared a home; they have built a life together, filled with laughter, love, and the kind of friendship that enriches both their worlds.
This is just one story, there are many diverse lifesharing arrangements, We are looking for compassionate Lifesharers looking to live in centrally located homes and apartments located in Montgomery and Bucks County.
Lynn, Andy and Ryan
From Empty Nest to Full Heart: How Andy, Lynn, and Ryan Built a Life of Shared Joy
When Andy and Lynn’s children moved out, their home got quieter, and their desire to stay connected and give back only grew louder.
That “something” turned out to be someone. A vibrant, music-loving, social butterfly named Ryan. Through Shared Wellness’s Lifesharing program, Ryan moved in with Andy and Lynn, and their world hasn’t been the same since.
Different Paths, Shared Life
Andy and Lynn had always supported each other’s unique interests—Andy’s passion for biking and hiking, Lynn’s love for live music and community events—but they often pursued them separately. Ryan? He’s the bridge.
“Ryan has this amazing energy. He’s down for a concert one night and a trail walk the next,” Andy laughs. “Now we’re doing all of the things that we enjoy and have met so many people great people through Ryan along the way.”
Andy and Ryan spend weekends hiking and biking together, and they’ve formed a close bond over Friday “men’s nights,” whether they’re heading out or staying in for a movie. Ryan and Lynn, meanwhile, share a love for music, shopping and the social energy of local events—they’re often out together several nights a week, enjoying shows, concerts, and the buzz of the community.
Their life has expanded in ways they never expected.
The Power of the Match
Andy and Lynn had known Ryan before Lifesharing. When the opportunity came to go through the matching process formally, they knew it felt right. Ryan even stayed with them for a weekend as a trial.
“It was important to make sure it worked for everyone,” Andy says. “We had the support to ease into it—and the team was with us every step.”
The Lifesharing team helped guide them through everything from paperwork to planning routines. And in time, a rhythm formed.
A Routine That Works
They always have breakfast together, and then Ryan’s days include outings with his Direct Support Professional (DSP), every day from 8–4 p.m., time at home, and shared meals and movie nights with Andy and Lynn. One early hurdle? Helping Ryan feel safe staying alone for short periods.
“We took it slow,” Andy explains. “It took patience, but we’ve seen real growth.”
Now, Ryan’s thriving—learning to use a calculator, trying new healthy foods, and of course making new friends every week. He also loves to help around the house, especially with cleaning—he takes real pride in contributing to their home.
More Than a House—A Home
For Andy and Lynn, Lifesharing isn’t just about helping someone else, it’s about finding deeper meaning in the everyday.
“Ryan makes our home feel full and complete,” Lynn says, her eyes lighting up. “He brought joy and energy. Honestly, he brings out the best in us. He brings out the best in everyone.”
After nearly five years together, and even before that, Ryan has become more than a housemate. He’s a companion, a spark of positivity, and very much a member of the family. His presence has brought new life into their routines, their relationships, and their home.
“It’s one of the most rewarding decisions we’ve made,” Andy says. “He’s changed our lives in ways we never could have predicted.”
Kelsey and Cole
Two Lives, One Path: How Lifesharing Transformed Kelsey’s Career and Supported Cole’s Transition
Kelsey never expected her side job to change her life.
By day, she was a school bus driver for students with special needs—a job she loved. But like so many young adults trying to make it on their own, she was looking for a way to boost her income and finally move out of her parents' house.
That’s when she found Lifesharing.
“I was looking for part-time work and applied to be a Direct Support Professional,” Kelsey says. “I didn’t know anything about Lifesharing. But once I learned what it was, I said yes—and it all happened pretty quickly.”
Lifesharing is a unique program that connects adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) to people who open their homes—and their lives—to share a household, build meaningful relationships, and foster independence. Kelsey moved into Cole’s beautiful townhouse—a young man who had been hoping for a match.
“It wasn’t always easy,” she admits. “This was all new to me. But I stuck with it, and it’s changed my life in more ways than I ever expected.”
Kelsey still drives her school bus route, but now she returns each day to a home she helps care for—and a relationship that has grown into something truly special. Through Lifesharing, she not only found a place to live and financial freedom, but something more unexpected: a chance to care for herself again.
“For the first time, I’ve been able to slow down and build routines that support my own health,” Kelsey shares. “I cook healthy dinners. I take walks. I have a stable life now—one that’s good for both of us.”
The benefits have rippled out. She’s gained new friendships, built a close relationship with Cole’s family, and found a sense of purpose that goes beyond any job description.
“I have my career, I have my own space, and I have this extra income stream that’s helping me build my future,” she says. “But more than that, I have Cole—and a real connection I didn’t know I was missing.”
Over the last two years, Kelsey and Cole have built a shared life. From cooking meals and taking walks to celebrating holidays with Cole’s family, the everyday rhythms of their home reflect the best of what Lifesharing can be: inclusive, grounded, and full of mutual respect.
One of the things Kelsey values most is the support built into the Lifesharing program.
“We’re not alone,” she says. “There’s a whole network of other Lifesharers, and we stay in touch. We also have a dedicated Program Specialist who knows the person we support—sometimes for years—and is always there to help things run smoothly.”
Many Program Specialists started out as Direct Support Professionals themselves, so they understand the work on a deep level. With an average tenure of over five years, they bring stability and insight to each match. There’s also a second layer of support through experienced Program Directors who guide families and Lifesharers alike.
Now, Kelsey is ready to share her story in hopes that others will say yes to Lifesharing too.
Cole’s parents say that while his first Lifesharing experience had its challenges, it still offered something meaningful. Now, with Kelsey as his second Lifesharing partner, everything has clicked into place. “She’s been a wonderful match—not just for Cole, but for our whole family,” they shared. “We’ve seen him become as independent as he can be, and it’s allowed us to enjoy life a little more, knowing he’s supported and cared for.”
They describe Kelsey as compassionate and attentive, someone who truly understands Cole’s needs and works patiently to help him navigate difficult moments. “She makes his life more enjoyable, and we’re so grateful she’s part of his world—and ours.”
Ready to Learn More?
Lifesharing is growing—and so is the need. There are currently many individuals waiting for someone to open their home and heart.
“There’s a great demand,” says Christine Martin, President of Shared Wellness. “So many families are looking for this kind of support for their adult children—someone who will see them, support them, and include them.”
Whether you’re 22 or 62, Lifesharing could be your next meaningful move.
Because when you open your home, you don’t just change someone else’s life—you transform your own.