If you’re running an Adult Foster Care Home, you already know the balancing act: meeting resident needs and HCBS rules for contracted providers while staying within tight financial limits. But here’s the good news—meaningful enrichment doesn’t have to be expensive. There are free or low-cost community resources available.
In this month’s episode of Table Talk!, seasoned AFC providers Joe and Laurie from Enriched Living shared the creative ways they bring real joy and growth to their residents, especially those in Adult Foster Care Group Homes for people with developmental disabilities.
3 Clever Ways to Use Free or Low-Cost Community Resources for your residents
1. Use Michigan.gov’s Disability Resource Page
Find official, vetted services ranging from education opportunities, employment to recreation ideas — You’ll also find downloadable brochures and contact info.
💡 Pro Tip: Bookmark https://www.michigan.gov/disabilityresources page and check back monthly—for new ideas and opportunities.
2. Facebook Search Hacks for Local Events
Type “free events for special needs [your city]” or “community events disability-friendly” into Facebook’s search bar. You’ll be surprised how many local churches, rec centers, and nonprofits post activities only on social.
💡 Bonus Tip: Join local “special needs” Facebook groups. These are gold mines for ideas and inclusive event leads.
3. Ask for What You Need—Confidently
Whether it’s zoo tickets, adaptive sports access, or a restaurant tour, many organizations will offer free or discounted entry for licensed AFC Homes—it’s just a matter of asking the right way.
Try this outreach script:
“Hi! I operate a licensed Adult Foster Care Home serving adults with developmental disabilities. We’re planning enriching outings this season and were wondering if you ever provide free or discounted access for small homes like ours. We’d love to partner with your organization!”
Need help with how to ask? Table Talk! members get access to a private community chat group to ask for live examples from real AFC providers.
Why This Matters
💬 “It’s not about how much you spend—it’s about knowing where to look and how to ask.” — Joe, Licensed Adult Foster Home Provider
From creating friendships with local police officers to coordinating with CMH and food banks, the best Adult Foster Care Community builders don’t spend more—they just connect smarter.
What AFC Mastermind Members Get
When you join the AFC Mastermind Membership, you’ll unlock:
✅ The full Table Talk! episode on serving the DD population
✅ A growing archive of expert discussions towards 16-hour annual Michigan State Licensing education requirement
✅ Downloadable scripts and planning tools
- ✅ Support from other Adult Foster Home Providers doing the same important work
👉 Join today to:
- Eliminate isolation
- Grow confidence
- Gain Competence
Let’s grow your team, strengthen your systems, and better serve every person in your care.
Care Provider Solutions is an organization of AFC Adult Foster Care System Specialists. We are committed to providing mentorship and support to open and operate Adult Foster Care Homes successfully so you have less stress.
You can also stay up to date on new content Care Provider Solutions, has published here:
