Frequently Asked Questions
What is Shared Wellness’ mission and approach to care?
Shared Wellness is a nonprofit network of care rooted in whole-person wellness for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), their families, and the broader community. Our mission is to create environments where every person—participants, families, caregivers, and staff—can thrive physically, emotionally, and socially. Our new 14,000-sq-ft trauma-informed Wellness Center in Warrington was designed to reflect that mission, blending evidence-based design with community input.
How does nursing fit into your “whole-person care” model?
Nursing is a central part of our care model. Our nurses support both clinical and wellness needs—bridging health, education, and everyday living. They provide essential medical oversight, lead wellness-focused programming, and collaborate closely with DSPs (Direct Support Professionals), clinicians, and families to ensure each individual’s needs are met holistically.
What populations do you serve?
We primarily support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), including those with autism. We also engage families, caregivers, employees, and community members through adaptive wellness programs, classes, and outreach events.
How is care delivered — on-site at the Wellness Center, in homes, or both?
Both. Our nurses work across home and community-based services, residential programs, and the Wellness Center, which serves as both a hub for programming and a clinical resource for checkups, screenings, and wellness education.
How does the nursing team collaborate with DSPs, clinicians, and wellness staff?
Collaboration is core to our model. Nurses work alongside DSPs, program specialists, and clinicians to ensure continuity of care—whether that’s through shared checkup protocols, wellness class coordination, or daily communication in residential settings. The team approach ensures that health and wellness are woven into every aspect of care.
What does a typical day look like?
A nurse’s day might include wellness checkups at the center, coordinating care plans with DSPs, visiting individuals in their homes, communicating with families and clinicians, and participating in classes or events that integrate health and wellness education.
What types of assessments or checkups are typically done?
Vital signs, routine screenings, and medication reviews
Health education conversations with individuals and caregivers
Supportive assessments related to sensory needs, nutrition, and chronic conditions
How much autonomy do nurses have in their work?
Nurses enjoy a high degree of autonomy, especially in home and community-based settings, while still being supported by a collaborative team. They have room to shape their schedules, programming, and outreach ideas.
Are there opportunities to lead classes, wellness activities, or community health initiatives?
Yes. Nurses play a visible role in leading wellness initiatives—for example, hosting nutrition classes, mindfulness checkups, or community health demonstrations at the Wellness Center.
💼 Training & Support
What kind of orientation and training do new nurses receive?
All nurses receive a structured onboarding to Shared Wellness, covering our trauma-informed approach, regulatory requirements, documentation systems, and an introduction to our interdisciplinary team model.
Are there opportunities for continuing education, certifications, or professional growth?
Yes. As Shared Wellness grows, we are committed to supporting ongoing learning—whether through external certifications, community health partnerships, or developing leadership roles within the organization.
How does Shared Wellness support nurses working in home and community settings?
Through strong communication channels, accessible leadership, and shared protocols. Nurses are never isolated; they’re part of a larger, integrated care team.
Who can nurses turn to for clinical guidance or support?
Our Head Nurse, Carolyn, provides direct clinical leadership. Nurses also collaborate with program specialists, clinicians, and the leadership team for guidance and coordination.
🌿 Culture & Values
How would you describe the culture at Shared Wellness?
Inclusive, community-focused, and creative. Shared Wellness values collaboration, respect, and innovation, creating a space where both individuals and staff can grow.
How do nurses participate in shaping programs and services?
Nurses are encouraged to bring their expertise and ideas to the table—whether that’s suggesting new wellness classes, refining care protocols, or contributing to organizational initiatives.
What makes working here different from traditional home care agencies or hospitals?
Nurses at Shared Wellness are part of a community, not just a care team. They have the opportunity to shape wellness programming, build lasting relationships, and work in a setting designed to foster calm, inclusion, and meaningful connections—not just medical transactions.
🕒 Scheduling, Pay & Benefits
What types of schedules are available?
Full-time, part-time, and flexible positions are available, including roles that blend Wellness Center work with community-based nursing.
What benefits are offered to nurses?
As employees, nurses receive comprehensive benefits including health insurance, dental, 3 weeks paid time off, and opportunities for professional development.
Are there opportunities for work-life balance or flexible scheduling?
Yes. Because of our community-based model, we offer more flexibility than traditional hospital shifts, making it easier to balance work and personal life.
How is mileage or travel compensated for home care roles?
Nurses who travel for home and community visits receive mileage reimbursement per agency policy.
🌟 Opportunities & Growth
How do nurses collaborate across programs (e.g., adaptive healing, wellness classes, residential services)?
Nurses are woven into multiple programs—they may support Adaptive Healing workshops, provide health guidance during residential activities, or collaborate on wellness classes that integrate clinical insight with community engagement.
Can nurses bring their own ideas for classes, outreach, or care models?
Absolutely. Shared Wellness values creativity and encourages nurses to help shape programming—whether that’s developing a nutrition series, community health initiative, or new ways to support families and individuals.
Technology for Documentation:
Nurses are equipped with a laptop computer or tablet and a company issued cell phone to support electronic documentation and communication needs in the field.
Assessment Equipment:
Blood Pressure Cuff, Portable Pulse Oximeter, Thermometer
First Aid Supplies:
Basic first aid kits and wound care supplies are available both in the Wellness Suite and in each individual's home, ensuring quick access to essential items for minor injuries or urgent care needs.