OLYMPIA -- The Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) will sponsor a free workshop in Key Center on how to open adult family homes. Adult family homes provide services for to up to six individuals age 18 and older who require assistance with personal care, meals, and supervision. Adult family homes are a great option for elderly and disabled individuals who wish to stay in their hometown.

At the workshop, experts from the DSHS Aging and Disability Services Administration (ADSA) will explain how to determine if there is a need for adult family homes in your community. Presenters will also discuss the keys to a successful adult family home including:

• getting licensed
• purchasing the right size house
• obtaining a mortgage
• creating a realistic budget
• delivering services
• developing a targeted marketing plan

These free workshops are designed for health and social service professionals seeking a new career path, homeowners who are "empty nesters" whose grown children have left and still have a desire to be a caregiver, and people who like to provide care to elderly and disabled adults. Non-profit organizations also are invited to participate.

Workshop location and date:

The workshop will be offered from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Thursday, August 2, 2007.

Location: Key Center Library

              Community Meeting Room

              8905 Key Peninsula Highway North

              Key Center, WA

Parking is available on site. For more information or to register, contact ADSA's George Zimmerman, 360-725-2534. Participants will be limited to space available.