Home & Community Based Services · Iowa
A home. A family. A life lived with dignity.
Phoenix of the Heartland helps adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities live with independence, dignity, and integrity — supported by caring host home families across the Iowa heartland.
“Every individual deserves to lead their unique life with independence, dignity, and integrity — met with respect, inclusion, and compassionate care.”
Our Mission
A Real Home
Individuals live as part of a host family's household, not in a facility — sharing meals, routines, and everyday life.
Person-Centered Care
Every plan is built around the individual's own goals, preferences, and needs, with respect for their independence.
Ongoing Agency Support
Host home providers are never on their own — our team provides training, a dedicated Service Coordinator, and 24/7 support.
Who We Serve
We work with adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities across the Iowa heartland who benefit most from the stability, companionship, and one-on-one attention of a family home rather than a group setting. Every person we serve has their own goals, personality, and preferences — our job, and yours as a host home provider, is to help them thrive on their own terms.
Why Families Choose to Host
- Make a lasting, day-to-day difference in someone's life.
- Provide care from the comfort of your own home, on a schedule built around your household.
- Receive training and support from a dedicated Service Coordinator and the Phoenix of the Heartland team.
- Join a growing network of host families across the region.
How Providers Get Started
See full requirementsApply Online
Tell us about your home, household, and experience through our secure online application.
Screening & Home Visit
We complete required background checks and visit your home to review safety and accessibility.
Training & Matching
Complete orientation and training, then we thoughtfully match you with an individual who fits your home.
Ongoing Partnership
Begin providing care with continued support, check-ins, and resources from the Phoenix team.
Photos & Events
Moments from Phoenix of the Heartland
Common Questions
What is a Host Home Provider?+
A Host Home Provider opens their home to an adult with a developmental or intellectual disability, providing day-to-day support, companionship, and a stable place to live as part of Iowa's Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) program.
Do I need medical or caregiving experience?+
Prior caregiving experience is valuable but not always required. We look for patient, compassionate households with a safe, accessible home — and we provide training on the rest.
What does the application and screening process involve?+
It starts with our online application, followed by required background checks (criminal history, abuse registry, and driving record) for every adult household member, then a home safety and accessibility visit.
Is there support after I'm matched with someone?+
Yes. A dedicated Service Coordinator works side-by-side with you throughout the process, with regular check-ins, care planning, and support with any questions or concerns throughout the placement.
Ready to open your home?
Start your host home provider application online in about 15 minutes.