- Business Plans Handbook
- Business Plans - Volume 11
- Mentally Disabled Care Facility Business Plan
Mentally Disabled Care Facility
Welcome Home Organization
730 Grand River Avenue Brighton, MI 48114
Andrew A. Westerfeld and
Aaron L. Wappelhorst
Welcome Home Organization plans to build and operate a Residential Care Facility for developmentally disabled adults. This facility will be available for individuals over the age of 18, who begin to reach the age of being too old to live at home, yet too young to live in a full time nursing facility. This facility will serve the needs of those who are moderately mentally retarded, who require some habit training. By serving this particular group we can create an excellent living environment, including a social family–like atmosphere and active lifestyles for all of our residents.
Our services include full–time residential care, private rooms, direct–care staff and nursing staff for any necessary medical care, entertainment and recreational opportunities, and educational and job skills training. The facility will be equipped to care for 30 individuals, including 30 private rooms, a cafeteria, living and socializing areas, and entertainment facilities. Our goal is to meet the social, physical, mental, recreational, educational, and vocational needs of all of our residents.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Welcome Home Organization will provide residential care for the mentally disabled. The organization will be certified as a 501(c) (3) non–profit corporation. We are dedicated to helping those with developmental disabilities to live their life to the fullest, while creating a family atmosphere that creates a better tomorrow, an atmosphere that encourages the participation of residents' families in their day– to–day lives. We strive to offer a community that promotes self respect, independence, and improves the quality of life for all our residents.
We intend to offer the highest quality residential care and day program services in the Southwest Detroit area. Our facility will accommodate thirty residents, each of whom will have individual fully– furnished bedrooms. Other amenities include several spacious living areas which provide a variety of atmospheres to meet individual needs. Residents will have available three full meals a day, which will accommodate their personal tastes and nutritional requirements. We will have employed a fully–trained staff who will assist the residents in day–to–day living. In addition, day programs will offer a variety of activities, and habit and work skills training to foster growth of the individual.
The facility's limited size will provide an opportunity for interaction between staff, volunteers and residents and will allow for personalized care. We will listen to the needs and desires of our residents to provide superior living conditions. We plan to construct a new $1.6 million facility, which will offer the amenities of a modern home. Our facility is large enough to operate efficiently, but small enough to feel like home. This type of atmosphere is the core objective of the organization. Residents should feel as though they are relaxed and in their living room, and not in an institution.
Welcome Home Organization will be operated by a five–person management team. The head of the facility will be our Chief Administrative Officer who will work with the management team and staff to operate the facility. A Chief Business Officer will oversee the day–to–day financial and fundraising activities of the organization. The Social Service Coordinator will be responsible for admissions and discharges, sales presentations, and general paperwork. In addition, the Residential Services Coordinator and the Day Program and Volunteer Coordinator will be responsible for their individual sectors.
The marketing plan of the organization is two–fold. First, the organization must market itself towards potential supporters and then to potential residents. Potential supporters will be recruited through personal relationships and an aggressive fundraising plan. Increasingly long waiting lists for residential care in the Detroit and Ann Arbor regions will provide the organization with a strong resident base. Currently the market for residential care facilities is underserved.
In order for the organization to be successful it must meet its fundraising goals. We plan to raise $1.6 million in initial fundraising, with $750,000 being contributed before the facility construction begins. The remaining $850,000 will be raised in the first year. Welcome Home Organization will fund the remaining portion of development costs through a long–term loan. Solid financial management will lead to an organization that will serve the community for years to come. The generosity of supporters is the key to the success of the organization.
Welcome Home Organization will be an asset to the developmentally disabled community, and the community as a whole. Our goal is to meet the social, physical, mental, recreational, educational, and vocational needs of all of our residents. At Welcome Home Organization we are committed to fostering compassion and improving tomorrow for those with mental disabilities.
At Welcome Home Organization we are committed to fostering compassion and improving tomorrow for those with mental disabilities. Welcome Home Organization is dedicated to helping those with developmental disabilities to live their life to the fullest, while creating a family atmosphere that creates a better tomorrow. We strive to offer a community that promotes self respect, independence, and improves the quality of life for all of our residents.
In order for Welcome Home Organization to attain its vision, the following objectives need to be achieved:
- Secure initial financing by securing commitments from both corporate and individual donors.
- Develop and construct a world-class residential facility that meets the needs of mentally handicapped in the Southwestern Detroit community.
- Maintain full occupancy, thus serving the needs of as many individuals as possible.
- Operate at only the highest standards, providing all residents with the ability to lead the best life possible.
- Provide individualized programs to meet the residents' needs.
PRODUCTS & SERVICES
Residential services.
Welcome Home Organization seeks to offer the best living conditions possible for all of our residents. We plan to construct a 30–room facility so that each resident is able to enjoy a space all their own. Each person will have a comfortable room, matching as closely as possible a home environment. The rooms will be comfortably furnished and decorated. The residents will receive three prepared meals per day, and a snack will be offered in the evening. All food will be served family style, again matching as closely as possible a home environment. All meals will be prepared by a trained cooking staff, and therefore will be able to meet the individual nutritional requirements of all of our residents. Also, there will be a trained Dining Aide staff as well as many volunteers who will assist those individuals with special eating needs.
In addition to the private rooms, there will be numerous areas available for social activities and entertainment. These living spaces will offer residents an opportunity to socialize with one another as well as the facility's volunteers and staff. These areas will be equipped with furniture and decorations so as to again create an atmosphere of home.
Our staff will be on duty 24 hours a day, and will be able to meet all of the needs of our residents. This facility will surpass state–requirements in the number of direct–care staff on duty so that our residents will have the best living conditions possible. A full team of direct–care staff will be on duty 24–hours a day. In addition, a trained nursing staff will be on duty from 7:00 am to 11:00 pm to meet the medical needs of the residents. During the evening hours from 11:00 pm to 7:00 am, the direct–care staff on duty will be trained in emergency medical procedures as well as medication administration. The facility will also make arrangements with a physician and dentist to assume overall responsibility for medical and dental care. Each resident will have at least one physical examination per year by a licensed physician and dentist.
Day Program Services
Welcome Home Organization will offer a Day Program to provide our residents with opportunities to socialize, exercise, and learn. This program's intent is to improve the lives of our residents and to teach new skills through a variety of activities and programs. In doing this, we hope to give them the skills they need to live as independently as possible. Through these programs we hope to instill a variety of skills including communicating with others, making personal choices, eating independently, personal hygiene, domestic skills, developing hobbies and interests, and developing basic work skills. Each person's program will be individually designed to meet their personal needs and skills.
These skills will be emphasized through a variety of activities designed and coordinated by a trained Day Program staff. In addition, many entertainment and social activities will be incorporated. These include a variety of games and sports, exercise time, gardening activities, arts and crafts, table games, music and singing time, and many others. Another important aspect of the day program will be community service projects. This part of the program will teach our residents the importance of giving back to the community. All Day Program activities will primarily take place on campus, but field trips will be offered on occasion.
Within the facility there will be an area designated specifically for the Day Program. State law requires forty square feet of usable floor space for each resident. Our facility will house a maximum of 30 residents, and so our Day Program Activity Center will be 2400 square feet in area. The Day Program will include a staff of four who will be responsible for developing individualized programs for each resident, planning activities, and working with volunteers. These volunteers will include family members of the residents. Both the residents' wants and needs will be taken into account in creating programs and planning activities. Overall, it is crucial that the program plan is person–centered, and is developed with active participation from the residents.
ORGANIZATION
One of the most important aspects of our organization will be our world–class residential care facility building. We plan to locate our 12,000 square foot facility in Brighton, Michigan on approximately three acres. Our building will have every convenience of home, so our residents are truly comfortable. The building will consist of 30 bedrooms, each of which is approximately 140 square feet. The bedrooms will be fully furnished and contain a bed, pillows, blankets, a bedspread, other proper linens, a bedside stand, a chair, closet space, a dresser, and vanity and sink. The rooms will each have at least one window which will provide views of the outdoors.
In addition to the bedrooms, the facility will have several living room–type areas. In total, these areas will be approximately 2,400 square feet. These rooms will serve many needs from providing a relaxing place to watch television and socialize, to a place to play board games with fellow residents and volunteers. One room will be furnished with couches, chairs, and end tables and will supply a place for the residents to watch television. Another room will have couches, tables, chairs, and floor mats to provide a place for social activities and games. The room will be stocked with a variety of board games and cards for the residents' enjoyment. A third smaller area will accommodate those seeking a quiet place. This area will also have couches, chairs, bookshelves, end tables, and lamps. We hope that by providing a variety of living areas, our residents will have ample opportunity to socialize and interact with those in our community as well as have individual time for peace and quiet.
Our facility will utilize communal bathrooms for the residents' use. These bathrooms will be conveniently located so that all residents have easy access. The bathrooms will have all the necessary equipment, including individual showering areas.
The Day Program will take place in our 2,400 square foot activity center. This center will be very flexible, allowing the spaced to be used for a variety of activities. The area will have collapsible tables and chairs, floor mats, and other appropriate equipment. This way, the facility can meet many different needs, from arts and crafts to exercise and dancing.
The kitchen will be approximately 750 square feet, and will be equipped with proper kitchen equipment. These items will include commercial sized refrigerators and freezers, ovens, and dishwashing equipment. There will also be adequate preparation areas with necessary counter space and sinks. The dining area will be approximately 1,200 square feet and will have adequate number of tables and chairs so as to accommodate our residents. Finally, about 1,000 square feet will be devoted to offices, a nurses station, and general work space.
BUSINESS STRATEGY
Features and benefits.
At Welcome Home Organization, we believe that our benefits are quite simple. We want to create a quality home–like environment where our residents can live happily and successfully. We strive to create the best living environment possible, with modern and clean facilities. We believe that each person is important, and should be treated as such. We hope to have the best staff in the industry, whose only focus is the happiness and care of each individual living in our facility. We want to create the best activities, so that our residents can truly enjoy life and make the best out of it. We want our residents to learn, to socialize, and to be happy. At Welcome Home Organization we know all of these things will be accomplished.
Business Model
The Welcome Home Organization derives its revenues from three sources: government payments, residents' contributions and donations. Government payments are broken into two categories, per diem reimbursements for residential care and monthly reimbursements for day programs. The per diem reimbursement rate is $115 per resident, and the day program rate is $750 per resident per month. These rates are set by the Michigan Department of Mental Health, and are indexed to the cost of living increases. Residents or their families pay a fee of $200 per month for residential care and day program services. Donations are put towards the construction and development of the facility, along with securing the organization's financial future. Government revenues and resident contributions alone are not enough to support the development and operation of the facility. Therefore, donations are essential to the organization's success. A portion of donations that do not go towards development and operations will be placed in an investment fund. This fund protects the organization against fluctuations in government revenues in the future.
Legal Business Description
Welcome Home Organization will receive certification as a non-profit corporation filed as a 501(c) (3) through the Internal Revenue Service and the Michigan Secretary of State's Office. In order to receive this status, the following steps must be taken:
- Review IRS Publication 557, Tax–Exempt Status for your Organization as well as IRS Publication 578, Tax Information for Private Foundations and Foundation Managers.
- File Michigan form Articles of Incorporation of a Nonprofit Corporation through the Michigan Secretary of State's Office.
- File IRS Form SS–4, Application for Employer Identification Number.
- File IRS Form SS–1028, Application for Recognition of Exemption, as well as IRS form 872–C, Consent Fixing Period of Limitation Upon Assessment of Tax, and IRS Form–8718, User fee for Exempt Organization Letter Request, in order to produce a Letter of Determination.
- File Michigan Form 1746, Michigan Sales/Use Tax Exemption Application, through the Michigan Department of Revenue to receive a Michigan State Tax I.D. number.
- Register as a Charitable Organization with the Michigan Attorney General's Office using form Charitable Organization Initial Registration Statement.
In addition to applying for non–profit status, because Welcome Home Organization is operating in the health care industry, we must be approved by the Michigan Certificate of Need Program, as well as receive state licensing through the Department of Mental Health's Division of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities. The Certificate of Need program is designed to verify the need of services in the community the facility plans to locate. In order to receive this certificate the following steps must be completed:
- Letter of Intent
- Proposed Expenditures
- New or Additional Equipment Application
- New or Additional Long Term Care Bed Application
- Proposed Project Budget
- Applicant Identification and Certification
- Representative Registration
- Service–Specific Revenues and Expenses
- Detailed Institutional Cash Flows
- Periodic Progress Reports
The most important aspect of the certificate of need program is the verification of need in the area for the services proposed. According to the Michigan Division of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities as of December 31, 2003 there were 260 individuals in the Detroit Metropolitan area seeking
Residential Care. This information was gathered through the Detroit Regional Center for the Developmentally Disabled and is the most recent data available. According to the center, this information is still current. Each of these individuals has been determined to be eligible to receive state funding.
To receive state licensing from the Michigan Department of Social Services, the following must be done:
- Complete Department of Mental Health, Bureau of Quality Improvement form Application for License to Operate a Residential Facility or Day Program for the Mentally Ill, Mentally Disordered, Mentally Retarded or Developmentally Disabled.
- Submit facility plans to the licensing office and the Michigan State Fire Marshal. These plans must also include a description of the utilization of each area.
In order to receive State Medicaid funding, we must apply for and receive a Provider Agreement through the Department of Social Services' Division of Medical Services. The DMS will issue this agreement if they have received a certificate of authorization or an acknowledgement of exemption from the Division of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities.
Welcome Home Organization will be centrally located in Livingston County whereas able to meet the needs of individuals from throughout the Southwest Detroit Metropolitan Area. The facility will serve people from Livingston County, Oakland County, Wayne County, Macomb County, and Washtenaw County. We chose this location because of our ability to raise money and public awareness in the community.
Organization
Our management team will consist of individuals with experience in the health care and nursing home industry. These individuals will be charged with maintaining the daily operations of the facility as well as supporting the long–term viability of the organization. The management team will include the following:
Chief Administrative Officer
- This individual will be responsible for the overall operation and management of the facility.
- He or she will oversee all activities in the organization, including marketing, services, staffing, and decision making.
- He or she will work with the management team and the Board of Directors to promote the well–being of the residents as well as the long–term success of the organization.
Chief Business Officer
- This individual is responsible for the business and finance operations of the facility.
- He or she will manage all necessary financial information, and prepare financial forecasts and budgets.
- He or she will also coordinate all fundraising efforts for the facility.
Residential Services Coordinator
- This individual will work with the staff in order to maintain excellence in service and quality living conditions for all residents.
- He or she will be in charge of operations including scheduling, disciplinary activities, and overall maintenance of the facility and its services.
Day Program and Volunteer Coordinator
- This individual is responsible for the day to day activities and socializing of the residents through the Day Program.
- He or she will also coordinate volunteers at the facility.
Social Service Coordinator
- This individual will be responsible for residents' admissions and intakes. They will also give sales presentations to prospective residents, give tours of the facility, and be responsible for working with families to fill out paperwork for admissions.
- He or she will also be responsible for the paperwork and duties associated with discharges.
- He or she will be in charge of fulfilling the requirements of the state in terms of paperwork, including securing state funding.
Accountant/CPA
1. This individual will work with the Chief Business Officer and the Chief Administrative Officer in order to create adequate financial statements.
- This individual will be responsible for representing Welcome Home Organization in any legal proceedings.
- He or she will prepare and file any necessary legal documentation.
Outside Management Support
Welcome Home Organization will also rely on a variety of outside sources for management support. These include both a Certified Public Accountant and an Attorney. These services will be donated by friends of the organization.
Board of Directors
An outside Board of Directors will be assembled, including highly qualified individuals from throughout the community. This board will consist of experts in the health care and nursing care field, as well as donors, family members of residents, and other respected members of the community. Working with the management team, they will aid in making appropriate and effective decisions that will benefit the lives of our residents as well as foster the long–run success of the organization.
The state of Michigan gives specific guidelines for the staffing of Residential Care Facilities. In order to achieve a higher level of personalized care, Welcome Home Organization will exceed these requirements. Welcome Home will be tailored to meet the needs of what the state classifies as mild to moderately retarded individuals. If the facility were to serve more severely retarded individuals, the staffing levels would have to be increased dramatically to meet state requirements. Our organization will consist of a direct care staff, a nursing staff, a day program staff, a dietary staff, an administrative staff, and a facility services staff. In total our staff will include approximately 28 full time and 6 part time employees. For detailed staffing information including job descriptions, shift schedules, and salary information please see the appendix.
Volunteers will be an integral component necessary for the success of Welcome Home Organization. They will be actively recruited from throughout the community, and will include all age levels and abilities. They will be utilized in nearly every aspect of the organization, from daily operations and care to fundraising. Volunteers will work closely with the Day Program and Volunteer Coordinator to help meet the needs of the residents and the facility as a whole. We hope to utilize an adequate number of volunteers to aid in areas such as general care, activities and entertainment, meal time assistance, and education and training. In addition to helping out, we hope that the volunteers will develop meaningful relationships with our residents, adding to the quality of their lives.
In addition to assisting with the daily operations, volunteers will also be needed to aid in all of our fundraising efforts. They will work with the Chief Business Officer and the Day Program and Volunteer Coordinator to organize and work at fundraising activities as discussed in the Fundraising Plan. Their efforts in this area are critical to the financial success of the organization.
Strategic Alliances
Welcome Home Organization hopes to develop several strategic alliances, including the following:
- Corporate Sponsorship—We hope to develop relationships with a variety of corporate sponsors willing to donate to our organization. We plan to put into place a variety of programs to support these activities. One of these programs is our Naming Rights Program. Through this program a company will be able to purchase naming rights for our facility. The facility will then be marked with a plaque to show our appreciation for their generous contribution. The facility will also then take on the corporate name permanently. We plan to work with the Founder's Committee to develop this relationship.
- Physician and Dentist—Our facility will work with a local physician and dentist to take on responsibility for the overall care of our residents. These individuals will then have regularly scheduled times in which they will visit our facility and perform normal check'ups and health evaluations. Also, they will be available in cases of emergency.
- Hospital—According to state law, a formal written arrangement with a community hospital must be made for the treatment and hospitalization of our residents. We will work with a local hospital to make such arrangements.
MARKET ANALYSIS
Market definition.
Welcome Home Organization operates within the developmentally disabled community. More specifically, the organization works with individuals who range from mild to moderate mental retardation. These patients require habit training and some assistance with day to day living. This represents a significant percentage of the mentally retarded community.
Within the Detroit metro area there are approximately 260 individuals on the waiting list of residential care facilities. Each individual qualifies for state funding according the Michigan Department of Developmental Disabilities.
The county breakdown is as follows:
- Oakland County: 40 individuals
- Livingston County 27 individuals
- Washtenaw County: 37 individuals
- Wayne County: 156 individuals
These people represent opportunity for the Welcome Home Organization. They will be the catalyst for a quick path to full occupancy of the facility.
Market Organization
Mild to moderately retarded people receive care from three primary sources: family, family in conjunction with day programs and residential care facilities. There are benefits and drawbacks to each type of care. Families are increasingly challenged to provide around the clock care to their developmentally– disabled loved ones.
Family is almost always the first source of care received by the disabled individual. As the individual ages providing full time care can become increasingly challenging. The factors of dual careers and additional children make providing adequate care all the more difficult. During adolescence parents usually enroll their child in a day program for the disabled. These programs function like a daycare. The individuals are dropped off in the morning and picked up in the afternoon. Throughout the day the individuals interact with others, have recreational time and participate in habit training. Some patients will be involved with a work skills program. At some point parents must decide if they will be the primary care givers indefinitely, or if the now young adult will enter a residential care facility.
Residential Care Facilities cover a wide range of care needs. Individuals enrolled in these programs may require anything from habit training to full time nursing care. Welcome Home Organization will specialize in the mild to moderately retarded community. By specializing in this sector the Welcome Home family can focus its abilities on making a significant impact upon its residents' lives. All the residents will take part in habit training, while some will also take part in an additional work skills training program. While the Welcome Home Organization believes that all individuals deserve care, we also believe that this niche market will provide us with the best opportunity to serve the community.
SWOT Analysis
S: Strengths
- Welcome Home Organization will pride itself on having the newest and cleanest facilities in the market. Our dedication to continuing quality will only enhance this reputation over time.
- The staff will have vast experience and training, and the staffing number will exceed state requirements.
- The low number of beds allows for more personalized service and care.
- Large scale fundraising creates a moderate price structure.
- Our central location will be convenient to the entire Detroit/Ann Arbor Region.
W: Weaknesses
- Our strategy relies upon an excellent initial and ongoing fundraising campaign. By utilizing personal relationships and experienced supporters we will be able to reach our fundraising goals.
- Any new organization faces the challenge of establishing itself in the community. We must establish ourselves in the hearts of our supporters and potential residents in order to gain trust.
- The Welcome Home Organization must abide by the strict regulations associated with operating a facility of this nature. Through a thorough understanding of the regulations the Welcome Home Organization can accomplish this task.
O: Opportunities
- With 260 people signed up on the waiting list of existing facilities, there should not be a problem reaching capacity.
- Studies show that mentally retarded adults are living longer, and often outliving their parents. This creates more demand as medical technologies continue to improve.
- In the future the demand could warrant the construction and operation of a second facility. This facility would meet the same needs of the current operation and would not be developed for 7–10 years.
- Decreased funding from the State of Michigan.
- Established facilities have already gained trust and respect from the donor and developmentally disabled community.
- New entries into the market pose a threat. We will overcome these competitors by always improving the total quality of the organization, and delivering personalized service to each resident.
- Lack of fundraising jeopardizes the feasibility of the facility. But once again we believe that our fundraising plan is feasible, and will be executed successfully.
Due to the nature of our business, we have a very specific customer profile. Our residents fit within the following criteria:
- Age: 18–40
- Mild to Moderate Retardation
- Income: Varying
- Family Status: Single
- Location: Southwestern Detroit Metropolitan Region; including Wayne, Oakland, Washtenaw, Livingston and Macomb Counties.
- Lifestyle: In need of habit and work skills training.
Our residents are looking for a personalized home like atmosphere, which affords them the opportunity to socialize, learn and grow towards a better tomorrow. We plan to fulfill all of these needs.
Competition
The competition is from existing facilities operating in the Detroit/Ann Arbor Region. These facilities have established trust in the community, and have histories of reputable care. Only three facilities offer campus style living similar to that of Welcome Home Organization.
Welcome Home Organization holds competitive advantages over these existing facilities. The facility itself will be new, and contain modern conveniences. The staff of the organization will be experienced and well trained, and also able to deliver personalized care. This is due to the low number of beds, which allows for more interaction between staff and residents. Overall the services we offer will be similar, but we pride ourselves on delivering them in a professional and personalized manner. Welcome Home is not just a facility, but truly a home for its residents.
MARKETING & SALES
Marketing plan.
Welcome Home Organization must market itself in two different spectrums, residents and benefactors. The initial thrust of the marketing campaign has two objectives; to demonstrate the demand for residential care, and to rally support for the organization. After the initial marketing campaign is complete, then the organization will transition its marketing efforts accordingly. Future marketing efforts will focus their attention towards producing a positive organizational image.
The organization's market differentiation is three–fold. First, the facility will be of the highest quality. Second, the staff will strive to deliver personalized care to the residents. Finally, the organization will adapt itself to meet the needs of its residents and their families. These three benefits will be the basis of the organization's competitive advantage.
Marketing Plan: Phase 1
Phase one carries out the immediate objectives of the organization. It begins ingratiating itself with the developmentally disabled community, and raises public awareness of the organization. In terms of the overall time line this phase takes place during the initial fundraising and development, all the way up to the full occupancy of the facility. The marketing is directed to both potential residents and supporters.
The sales strategy of Welcome Home organization is multi-faceted. Welcome Home will serve the needs of the underserved, provide quality care and offer assurance to the families of the developmentally disabled. In order to carry out these strategies the organization plans to have two essential marketing methods.
The Department of Developmental Disabilities waiting list will provide an excellent source of potential residents. These residents are already seeking residential care and have been qualified by the State of Michigan to receive funding. Therefore, they are a target market that we will pursue.
In addition, during the development stage members of the organization will become involved in regional advocacy and support groups for the developmentally disabled and their families. The purpose of this involvement is to become acquainted with the influential people within the market, and to better understand the need of the market. These types of networking events will also help to provide the original group of residents. When it comes to a loved one, families desire a personal connection to those providing the care of the individual.
This personal connection will be provided by the Social Services Director and Chief Administrative Officer, who will be the public face of the organization. Once the facility's construction is complete and in operation, they will give tours, help coordinate public relations events and act as a sounding board for the concerns of residents and their families. Welcome Home Organization will strive to be a learning organization; an organization that works to create a home like atmosphere for its residents and peace of mind for their loved ones.
Providing quality care is a must, and it will be expressed throughout all the actions of the Welcome Home Organization. Marketing the quality care will be accomplished through the development of positive public relations. Residents and their families will see an organization that prides itself on quality throughout. The most trusted form of advertising is an unsolicited endorsement, and that must be the foundation that supports Welcome Home Organization.
Two marketing methods have been adopted. The first is a personal sales method that focuses itself on becoming involved within the developmentally disabled community as well as personally contacting those on the waiting list. Welcome Home Organization believes that this personal bond is vital to success. Second, the organization will develop a positive public relations campaign to cast a wider net and raise the public awareness of the organization.
Welcome Home Organization cannot exist without generous donations from its supporters. These donations are crucial for the initial startup including construction of the facility as well as funding a portion of ongoing operations. Marketing the organization to potential supporters means building a donor pool from a series of fundraising committees. The original or Founders Committee will be comprised of civic minded individuals who value the mission and vision of the organization. This committee will be responsible for the coordination of successive committees meant to broaden the scope of the fundraising. An altruistic sales strategy will be used to approach members of the Founders Committee.
Members of the Founders Committee will be solicited from personal connections and family members. Given the interpersonal relationships that already exist, this effort should meet with quick success. In order to meet the goal of fifteen members, Welcome Home plans to approach thirty potential donors.
These donors will meet individually with the Welcome Home family to discuss their involvement in the organization. They will be asked to donate fifty thousand dollars, and support future fundraising efforts. Although a success rate of fifty percent for such a large commitment is ambitious, it is also achievable. The strength of personal connections and the nobleness of the Welcome Home mission will open the hearts of supporters.
The process of recruiting members of the Founder's Committee has already begun, and has been extraordinarily successful. Eight families have pledged to join Welcome Home Organization's Founder's Committee. A more detailed description of the fundraising activities can be found in the Fundraising Plan.
Marketing Plan: Phase 2
Phase two of the marketing effort begins after the facility has reached its full occupancy. This phase has two goals: to continue publicizing the tradition of quality care, and to become further involved in the developmentally disabled community. Much of this marketing effort will take place simultaneously with ongoing fundraising efforts. The effective planning and execution of fundraising events such as golf tournaments and dinner auctions will provide excellent public relations.
These events will be coordinated by the Chief Business Officer and Chief Administrative Officer. The Chief Business Officer's central fundraising role will be continuous contact and networking among present and potential supporters. Members of the Founders Committee will work in conjunction with the CBO to establish fundraising goals and strategies. The Founders Committee also coordinates with the CAO to aid in the planning and execution of the fundraising events.
Long Term Competitive Plan
Welcome Home Organization envisions a bright future, with continuous improvements in all facets of the organization. In order to maintain a long–term competitive advantage Welcome Home must listen to the needs of its residents, expand and improve the facilities and strive for extensive fundraising. These accomplishments advance the Welcome Home Organization vision of living life to the fullest, while working towards a better tomorrow.
The well–being of its residents is the mission of the organization. Accordingly, the organization is determined to adapt itself to the needs of its residents. One example of this personalized service we plan to implement is a customized activities schedule, which best reflects the interests of the resident. Each resident is a true individual, who deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. By fostering this atmosphere over the long–term Welcome Home establishes an advantage that cannot be matched by a newcomer to the market.
The facility will be updated and renovated to meet the stylistic and amenity demands of the time. Welcome Home is being constructed as a first–class operation, and will maintain that status as the facility ages. By staying current the Welcome Home Organization will maintain its advantage of truly being a home–like atmosphere.
While the initial plan calls for a single facility of thirty beds, future demands may require expansion. In this case, Welcome Home will consider the development of a second site to meet the demands of the market. A second facility would not be constructed until the initial operation has been running for seven to ten years. This period of time would allow the organization to establish itself as a leader in the developmentally disabled community.
If the heart of Welcome Home is its residents, then its lifeblood is fundraising. Welcome Home Organization will establish a competitive advantage through its extensive fundraising efforts. These efforts will establish funds for its operation, renovation and expansion. The fundraising effort will be well organized and well executed. The Chief Administrative Officer and Chief Business Officer are responsible for the success of the fundraising operations.
FUNDRAISING PLAN
Initial fundraising effort.
Welcome Home Organization thrives upon the generosity of its friends and benefactors. In order to meet the initial start–up and operating costs Welcome Home has created an aggressive fundraising plan. The cornerstone of this plan is a Founders Committee consisting of fifteen people, pledging to donate fifty–thousand dollars each. These fifteen people will not only donate money, but also their time to the initial fundraising effort. Once the Founder's Committee has been established, a broader group of supporters can be gathered. The Platinum Circle will include twenty people donating twenty–five thousand dollars a piece. The Gold Circle will seek out twenty–five donors pledging ten thousand dollars per person. Finally, the Silver Circle includes 100 individuals each pledging $1,000. Given the importance of these initial supporters it is crucial to gather not just people, but the right people.
Our initial fundraising goal is $1.6 million. Construction on the project will begin once we have met half of the initial fundraising goal. This initial fundraising will be used to develop the facility, cover a portion of operating costs, and help to secure the financial future of the organization. We plan to have completed the initial fundraising effort in slightly over one year.
Founders Committee
The members of the Founders Committee represent the highest commitment to the Welcome Home Organization. They must donate as much through their time and energy as through their wallet. A member must have adequate financial resources, solid stature within the community and a willingness to work with the organization into the future. Prospective members of this committee may very well have experience interacting with developmentally disabled individuals within their own lives. In addition to the traditional fundraising circles, Welcome Home Organization will utilize those for whom developmental disability is a special cause.
These members will be recruited through personal relationships of the Brumfeld and Wesley families. Currently, eight families have already pledged their support and agreed to join the Founders Committee. $400,000 has been pledged to date. This initial group will help to fill the rest of the Founders Committee as well as the Platinum, Gold, and Silver Circles.
A profile of each of the members follows:
- Bart and Martha Brumfeld: Bart is currently the President of Operations for Transport USA. The couple is involved in many charity and community activities, and is very familiar with the donor community throughout the Detroit metropolitan area.
- Don and Judith Booth: Don is currently the Vice-President and General Counsel of Railways Inc. He is also the owner and principal of Booth Law Group. In addition, he serves as a Grand Rapids Alderman. Judith is the Deputy Executive Director of the Michigan Democratic Party. Both are extremely active throughout the community.
- Shelly Grabek: Shelly is an active member of her family's businesses. Pinnacle Newspapers Inc. is a media company based in Michigan. In addition, she is involved with UMAN, a manufacturing firm based in San Diego, California. She donates much of her free time to worthy causes, including the St. Jude's Children's Hospital.
- Rock and Cynthia Noetzol: Rock is a retired Ann Arbor physician, and currently donates his time as the Washtenaw County Health Commissioner, a position he has held for over thirty years. He is a third generation Washtenaw County practitioner, and has family roots going back over a century and a half. Cynthia is a retired registered nurse, and is involved in the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
- Rick Spivey: Rick is an anti–trust attorney with the firm of Holden–Nash LLP. He is also a Oakland County Councilman. Rick is active in the community, and has vast experience in fundraising.
- Eric and Julie Gardner: Eric is a retired executive from Robotics LLC, and is actively involved with a variety of charities including Boy Scouts of America. Julie is a retired homemaker.
- Robert and Janice Wesley: Robert is currently the President of Lumber Supplies, Inc. based in Brighton, MI. He and Janice are actively involved in the community and have done extensive fundraising for a variety of charitable causes.
- Greer Frasier: Greer is a widowed homemaker. Her husband's businesses included Frasier Window Company, Inc. and a variety of real estate holdings. Currently, she is involved with a variety of local charities.
The members of the Founders Committee have graciously agreed to personally send out pledge letters to their contacts. From their resources we have gathered the names of nearly 1,000 potential donors. Each member will send out a personal letter to their own contacts. The members have graciously agreed to underwrite the cost of this mailing. An example of the letter can be found in the appendix.
Platinum Circle
A platinum circle of donors shall be derived from these efforts of the Founders Committee. This platinum circle will be responsible for a twenty–five thousand dollar donation and assistance in future fundraising. Members of this committee will be drawn fro the contacts and resources of the Founders Committee members. The platinum circle will then assist in securing the gold circle of donors.
Gold Circle
The gold circle comprises the next phase of the initial fundraising effort. $250,000 will be brought in by the gold circle of donors. Just as important, this effort will lay the groundwork for the silver circle.
Silver Circle
The silver circle offers the chance for smaller donors to join the Welcome Home Organization family. One hundred donors pledging one thousand dollars will raise a total of $100,000. In total the initial fundraising effort will raise 1.6 million dollars.
Spring Gala Event
In order to get people excited about the organization, as well as seek donors, Eric and Julie Gardner have graciously offered to underwrite the cost of a spring gala event at the St. Louis Zoo. Families will have the option to donate from $250 dollars a guest, all the way up to joining the Platinum Committee with a donation of $25,000. Julie Gardner has offered to plan and execute the entire event. This event will be mentioned in the initial appeal letter, along with an enclosed response card. Examples of each are in the appendix.
Ongoing Fundraising
Welcome Home Organization will support a portion of its operating costs through ongoing fundraising operations. These operations will include traditional and non–traditional fundraising. The non– traditional fundraising is to include corporate sponsorship and naming rights.
Traditional Fundraising
The traditional fundraising plan includes an annual campaign, dinner auction, collection day, golf tournament, a bequest program and in the future an annuity program. These fundraisers should offer opportunities for even the smallest donor to share in the Welcome Home Organization vision. Their success will be one of the main duties of the Chief Administrative Officer, Chief Business Officer and Day Program and Volunteer Coordinator. Each of these events is done by multiple organizations, and requires significant numbers of people. Our Volunteer list will include the families of residents, our donors and friends.
- Annual Campaign: An annual fundraising campaign shall be conducted to help meet fundraising goals. The initial contacts will come from the list of potential supporters provided by the Founders Committee. This campaign will be conducted primarily through a mail/call strategy. Potential donors will receive a letter outlining the mission of Welcome Home Organization, and asking for their support. Within a week, a volunteer from the organization will contact that person, asking if they have received the letter, and if they are interested in supporting the organization. If they are not interested in donating to the organization, then they will be eliminated from the annual campaign. However, if they would like to donate, then they will be given further information and supporting calls until the donation is received. Donors to the annual campaign will be submitted into the pool for other fundraising activities. The general strategy of the annual campaign will be the responsibility of the Chief Administrative Officer. Volunteers for the follow up calls will be organized by the Day Program and Volunteer Coordinator. The annual campaign will begin in the third year, after all initial fundraising has been completed.
- Dinner Auction: Welcome Home Organization will host an annual dinner auction. The event will have three streams of revenue: the dinner, auction and corporate sponsorship, and will be held in October. This annual event will begin in our first year of operation. Auction items will be primarily donated in order to minimize cost. Corporate sponsors will enjoy the public goodwill which accompanies having their name attached to a worthy cause.
- Collection Day: Each year the organization will conduct a collection day to be held in April. This day will be similar to those held by organizations such as Backstoppers, Old Newsboys and other charitable groups. The organization will utilize a large number of volunteers to blanket busy intersections and public places asking for small donations. This type of fundraiser has a high margin, and raises the public awareness of the organization. A higher public awareness means a greater annual campaign, and so we will begin our annual collection day in the third year. This way we will have developed a greater public awareness and built a volunteer base to utilize in these activities.
- Golf Tournament: Golf tournaments provide many revenue opportunities. The first is simply the tournament fee paid by the golfer. In addition golfers may have the chance to purchase mulligans, enter skins contest and participate in hole–in–one contests. All these enhance the dollars brought in by each individual. Once again corporate sponsors may be elicited for the entire event, and also for individual holes. Although golf tournaments do have a high overhead, they are an excellent method of getting new individuals into the donor pool. The event is scheduled in June.
- Bequest Program: Bequest programs offer supporters the chance to remember the Welcome Home Organization in their last will and testament. The organization will provide standardized forms to aid in the legal process of the will. Donors may find this a useful tool to not only support the organization, but also to lessen the effect of estate taxes.
- Gift Annuity Program: After the organization has been established and is financially sound they will create a gift annuity program. This type of program accepts cash and publicly traded securities as a gift to the organization. In exchange for the gift, Welcome Home Organization will pay an annual annuity to the beneficiary for the remainder of his or her life. The rate is determined by the age of the youngest beneficiary, with the rate increasing accordingly with the age. Upon the death of the beneficiary the gift remains with the organization. Those who participate in this program enjoy lower taxes and secure income in addition to the altruistic benefit.
Non–Traditional Fundraising
Many organizations have turned to non–traditional methods of fundraising. Among the most popular is the use of naming rights and sponsorship. Welcome Home Organization plans to utilize these options during the development and maturing of the organization. We hope that the naming rights of our facility will raise $200,000. This amount will be pledged over a period of 10 years, with a $20,000 donation each January. Corporations reap a double benefit; their name becomes associated with a positive image, and their donations lessen their tax burden.
FINANCIAL ANALYSIS
Financial explanation.
Welcome Home Organization will be established on solid financial ground by the end of year five. Donations are used to develop the facility, cover a portion of operating expenses and protect the organization against fluctuations in government revenues. The development of the facility includes construction, training, equipment and staffing prior to full occupancy. Occupancy is scheduled to be ten individuals when the facility opens in January of year one, and is to raise by ten individuals each subsequent month, until the capacity of thirty is reached.
Year zero has no revenue from operations, because it is dedicated to fundraising and development. Employees receive payment for time worked during the development and training phase. Pre–construction activities such as architecture and engineering are to begin on January 1st. Construction is expected to begin in April and commence in November. A loan of $1.1 million dollars is received on April 1st, it is figured as a thirty year loan at six percent interest. The loan goes towards the cost of land and construction. The collateral will include the cash on hand and the residual value of the land and building. If additional collateral is required, the Wesley family has agreed to pledge a parcel of land in Livingston County as collateral.
Operation of the facility begins in January of year one. Operating revenues climb steadily through the end of March, as the occupancy increases each month. Accounts Receivable is calculated as one month of government revenues. Accounts Payable is calculated as one month of supplies and miscellaneous expenses. Investments have been calculated as seventy–five percent of excess cash flow, beginning in February of year two. These investments are meant to secure the financial future of the organization.
Job Descriptions
Direct Care Staff
- Responsible for the overall care of residents.
- Assist with daily activities and special needs.
- Assist with maintaining health standards and appropriate environmental conditions.
Registered Nurse
- Responsible for the overall health of the residents, and will be the dedicated nurse in charge.
- Responsible for development of drug control procedures, environmental health, safety, and dietary procedures.
- Responsible for drug distribution management.
- Maintains necessary medical and nursing records.
- Necessary medical care will include, but is not limited to injections, inhalation therapy, intravenous fluids, suctioning, ostomy irrigation, lesion dressing, aseptic dressing, catheter irrigation, care for pressure sores and physiotherapy.
Licensed Practical Nurse
- Responsible for the care of the residents.
- Responsible for medication distribution while on duty.
- Works with the dedicated nurse in charge to maintain adequate medical and nursing records.
- Responsible for the development of meal plans, taking into consideration residents wants and needs.
- responsible for planning and ordering necessary food and equipment.
- In charge of food preparation for the entire facility.
- Maintains adequate records on resident-specific needs so as to accommodate necessary dietary and nutritional requirements.
Dining Aides
- Work with the cooks in the preparation and serving of meals.
- Assists residents with special eating needs.
- Work with volunteers to meet the general dining needs of the residents.
Housekeeping Services
- These services will be outsourced through an outside firm.
- Responsible for cleaning and maintaining the facility, including all common areas, restrooms, the activity center and resident's individual rooms.
Linen Assistant
• Responsible for laundry services, including resident's clothing, bathroom linens, and bedroom linens.
Plant Maintenance Employee
- In charge of the overall maintenance of the facility and its property.
- Responsible for necessary indoor repairs and maintenance at the facility.
- Responsible for outdoor maintenance, including lawn mowing and landscaping.
Day Program Staff
- Work with the Day Program Coordinator to plan and administer day program activities.
- Responsible for the care of the residents throughout the day.
- Work with volunteers in the Activities Center and throughout the facility.
Administrative Assistant
• Assists the Chief Administrative Officer in day–to–day activities of management and operations of the facil
Receptionist
• Responsible for answering phones, greeting guests and other administrative tasks.
Biographical Information
- Chief Administrative Officer: The CAO has already been chosen, but the name is being kept confidential. This individual has over three years of public accounting experience, and holds C.P.A. certification. In addition, for the past three years this individual has served as the Director of Finance for a similar facility in another state. This individual is an excellent candidate, and brings a great and wide variety of experience to the operation.
- Jonathan Fisher: Jonathan has over six years experience with his family business, and a lifetime of charitable activities. He has worked directly with the developmentally disabled in the past. In addition, he has experience organizing fundraisers, which has led to numerous political connections.
- Robert Wesley: Robert has also worked with the developmentally disabled in the past at the Riverside Home. His work experience involves a variety of roles in the political process. Both Jonathan and Robert have worked with numerous candidates on all levels, including local, statewide and national. These connections will be beneficial to the fundraising and securing government support.
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Home » Business ideas » Healthcare & Medical » Group Home
How to Write a Group Home Business Plan [Sample Template]
Are you about starting a group home for elderly people ? If YES, here is a complete sample group home business plan template & feasibility study you can use for FREE . If you have a passion for taking care of those who can’t take care of their selves, then you may want to consider starting a group home business.
This is one trade that is humanitarian based, but yet can put good food on the table. This is also a thriving industry because every day more and more people get incapacitated one way or the other.
Starting this business will to a large extent require that you do all the research that is required to be done. This is so that you are armed with ample information as you set out in the trade. Also, you will need to write a business plan . Business plans are like road maps, that tell where a business is headed for, based on projections.
A Sample Group Home Business Plan Template
Table of Content
1. Industry Overview
3. our products and services, 4. our mission and vision statement, 5. job roles and responsibilities, 6. swot analysis, 8. our target market, our competitive advantage, 9. sales and marketing strategy, 10. sales forecast, 11. publicity and advertising strategy, 12. our pricing strategy, 14. sustainability and expansion strategy, 35. how to start a group home in florida.
When it comes to caring for people who can’t take care of themselves, there are several options and one of them is to take them to group homes.
In general, a group home is a private residence for the elderly, children or young people who cannot live with their families due to obvious reasons, or people with chronic disabilities who may be adults or seniors and can’t take proper care of themselves if left to live alone. Basically, the term group home referred to homes from 8 to 16 individuals, which was a state-mandated size during deinstitutionalization.
Before a group home can commence operations, there should be at least six residents and at least one trained caregiver there 24 hours a day. So also a standard group home is expected to have a house manager , night manager, weekend activity coordinator, and 4 part-time skill teachers were reported.
It is important to state that residents of group homes usually have one form of disability or the other. It could be autism, intellectual disability, chronic or long-term mental/psychiatric disorder, or physical or even multiple disabilities.
Some group homes were funded as transitional homes to prepare for independent living (in an apartment or return to family or marriage and employment), and others were viewed as permanent community homes. Society may prevent people with significant needs from living in local communities with social acceptance key to community development.
The residents of group homes sometimes need continual or supported assistance in order for them to be able to complete daily basic and simple tasks, such as taking medication or bathing, making dinners, having conversations, making appointments, and getting to work or a day service, budget their personal allowance, select photos for their room or album, meet neighbors and “carry out civic duties,” go grocery shopping, eat in restaurants, make emergency calls or inquiries, and exercise regularly amongst other activities.
Going by the data published by the US Census Bureau, the regions that account for the largest share of establishments in the industry are the Southeast (23.9% of total establishments), Great Lakes (17.3%), West (12.9%) and Mid-Atlantic (12.7%) regions.
This data basically reflects the age distribution in the united states. So also the data shows that employment in this industry is also concentrated in the Southeast, the Mid-Atlantic and the Great Lakes regions. The largest states in terms of employment are New York, California, Texas, Ohio and Florida.
The Nursing Care Facility industry of which group home is a subset of is indeed a very large industry and pretty much thriving in developed countries such as United States of America, Canada, United Kingdom, Germany, Australia and Italy et al.
Statistics has it that in the United States of America alone, there are about 24,115 licensed and registered Nursing Home Facilities responsible for employing about 1,775,943employees and the industry rakes in a whooping sum of $132bn annually with an annual growth rate projected at 2.3% percent. It is important to state that there is no company with dominant market share in this industry.
Over and above, the Nursing Care Facility / Group Home line of businesses in developed countries are still enjoying good patronage particularly if they are well positioned and if they know how to reach out to their target market; the aging population and those who with disabilities.
2. Executive Summary
Grace & Mercy Group Home, LLC is a standard and licensed group home facility that will be located in the heart of Saint Augustine – Florida in a neatly renovated and secured housing facility.
Our group home is specifically designed and equipped with the needed accommodation facilities / gadgets to give comfort and security to all our residence irrespective of the religious affiliations, their race, and health condition. We are set to take care of people with one form of disability or the other whether old or young.
Grace & Mercy Group Home, LLC is a family owned and managed business that believe in the passionate pursuit of excellence and financial success with uncompromising services and integrity which is why we have decided to venture into the hospitability industry by establishing our own assisted living facility business.
We are certain that our values will help us drive the business to enviable heights and also help us attract the numbers of clients that will make our facility fully occupied year in year out.
We are going to be a health conscious and customer-centric group home business with a service culture that will be deeply rooted in the fabric of our organizational structure and indeed at all levels of the organization. With that, we know that we will be enables to consistently achieve our set business goals, increase our profitability and reinforce our positive long-term relationships with our clientele, partners (vendors), and all our employees as well.
Our accommodation facility will be decorated in an exquisite and elegant facade, so much so that it will be a conspicuous edifice in the city where it is located. Grace & Mercy Group Home, LLC will provide a conducive home for our residence.
We will engage in services that will help our residence complete daily basic and simple tasks, such as taking medication or bathing, making dinners, having conversations, making appointments, and getting to work or a day service, budget their personal allowance, select photos for their room or album, meet neighbors and “carry out civic duties,” go grocery shopping, eat in restaurants, make emergency calls or inquiries, and exercise regularly amongst other activities.
Grace & Mercy Group Home, LLC will be equipped with everything that will make life comfortable for the disable and elderly. We will as build a fitness room and library et al. We will also install a free Wi-Fi that will enable our residence and guests surf the internet with their laptop in the room free of charge, and there will be wireless access in all the public area within the lodging facility.
Grace & Mercy Group Home, LLC is a family business that is owned and managed by Mrs. Grace Smith and her family. Mrs. Grace Smith is a licensed Group Home Administrator, nurse and social health worker with well over 25 years of experience working for leading brand in the industry. She has a Master’s Degree in Public Health and she is truly passionate when it comes to taking care of people with disabilities.
Grace & Mercy Group Home, LLC is set to operate a standard Group Home service in Saint Augustine – Florida. The fact that we want to become a force to reckon with in the Nursing Care Facility industry means that we will provide our resident a conducive and highly secured accommodation.
In all that we do, we will ensure that our customers are satisfied and are willing to recommend our facility to their family members and friends. We are in the group home business to deliver excellent services and to make profits and we are willing to go the extra mile within the law of the United States to achieve our business goals, aims and objectives.
Grace & Mercy Group Home, LLC will provide a conducive home for our residence; we will engage in services that will help our residence complete daily basic and simple tasks, such as taking medication or bathing, making dinners, having conversations, making appointments, and getting to work or a day service, budget their personal allowance, select photos for their room or album, meet neighbors and “carry out civic duties,” go grocery shopping, eat in restaurants, make emergency calls or inquiries, and exercise regularly amongst other activities.
- Our vision is to become the number one choice when it comes to group home service delivery in the whole of Florida and also to be amongst the top 20 group home service provider in the United States of America within the next 10 years.
- Grace & Mercy Group Home, LLC is in business to establish a first class group home facility service that will take care of both the elderly and young disable as long as they can afford our services. We want to become one of the leaders in nursing care facility industry in Florida, and in The United States of America.
Our Business Structure
Grace & Mercy Group Home, LLC is a business that will be built on a solid foundation. From the outset, we have decided to recruit only qualified professionals (nurses, nurse’s aides, medication management counselors, physical therapists, county aging workers, and rehabilitation counselors, home health caregivers and home caregivers) to man various job positions in our organization.
We are quite aware of the rules and regulations governing the nursing care facility industry which is why we decided to recruit only well experienced and qualified employees as foundational staff of the organization. We hope to leverage on their expertise to build our business brand to be well accepted in Florida and the whole of the United States.
When hiring, we will look out for applicants that are not just qualified and experienced, but homely, honest, customer centric and are ready to work to help us build a prosperous business that will benefit all the stake holders (the owners, workforce, and customers).
As a matter of fact, profit-sharing arrangement will be made available to all our management staff and it will be based on their performance for a period of five years or more. These are the positions that will be available at Grace & Mercy Group Home, LLC;
- Chief Executive Officer
Medication Management Counselors
- Assisted Living Administrator (Human Resources and Admin Manager)
- Nurse’s Aides
- Home Health Caregivers / Home Caregivers /County Aging Workers
- Sales and Marketing Executive
- Accounting Officer
Chief Executive Officer:
- Increases management’s effectiveness by recruiting, selecting, orienting, training, coaching, counseling, and disciplining managers; communicating values, strategies, and objectives; assigning accountabilities; planning, monitoring, and appraising job results; developing incentives; developing a climate for offering information and opinions; providing educational opportunities.
- Creating, communicating, and implementing the organization’s vision, mission, and overall direction – i.e. leading the development and implementation of the overall organization’s strategy.
- Responsible for fixing prices and signing business deals
- Responsible for providing direction for the business
- Creates, communicates, and implements the organization’s vision, mission, and overall direction – i.e. leading the development and implementation of the overall organization’s strategy.
- Responsible for signing checks and documents on behalf of the company
- Evaluates the success of the organization
- Reports to the board.
Group Home Administrator (Admin and HR Manager)
- Responsible for overseeing the smooth running of HR and administrative tasks for the organization
- Designs job descriptions with KPI to drive performance management for clients
- Regularly hold meetings with key stakeholders to review the effectiveness of HR Policies, Procedures and Processes
- Maintains office supplies by checking stocks; placing and expediting orders; evaluating new products.
- Ensures operation of equipment by completing preventive maintenance requirements; calling for repairs.
- Defines job positions for recruitment and managing interviewing process
- Carries out staff induction for new team members
- Responsible for training, evaluation and assessment of employees
- Responsible for arranging travel, meetings and appointments
- Updates job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities; reading professional publications; maintaining personal networks; participating in professional organizations.
- Oversees the smooth running of the daily home activities.
- Responsible for providing professional medical services to our residence
- Responsible for ensuring that disable and elderly people under our care takes their medication as at when due
- Responsible for handling medical emergencies
Nurses / Nurse’s Aides / Mental Health Counselors
- Responsible for managing our patients in their various houses
- Handles personal injury case management
- Responsible for offering home medication management services
Marketing and Sales Executive
- Identifies, prioritizes, and reaches out to new clients, and business opportunities et al
- Identifies development opportunities; follows up on development leads and contacts; participates in the structuring and financing of projects; assures the completion of projects.
- Writes winning proposal documents, negotiate fees and rates in line with organizations’ policy
- Responsible for handling business research, market surveys and feasibility studies for clients
- Responsible for supervising implementation, advocate for the customer’s needs, and communicate with clients
- Develops, executes and evaluates new plans for expanding increase sales
- Documents all customer contact and information
- Represents Grace & Mercy Group Home, LLC in strategic meetings
- Helps to increase sales and growth for Grace & Mercy Group Home, LLC.
Accountant / Cashier
- Responsible for preparing financial reports, budgets, and financial statements for the organization
- Provides managements with financial analyses, development budgets, and accounting reports; analyzes financial feasibility for the most complex proposed projects; conducts market research to forecast trends and business conditions.
- Responsible for financial forecasting and risks analysis.
- Performs cash management, general ledger accounting, and financial reporting for the organization
- Responsible for developing and managing financial systems and policies
- Responsible for administering payrolls
- Ensures compliance with taxation legislation
- Handles all financial transactions for Grace & Mercy Group Home, LLC
- Serves as internal auditor for Grace & Mercy Group Home, LLC.
- Responsible for cleaning the facility at all times
- Ensures that toiletries and supplies don’t run out of stock
- Assists our residence when they need to take their bath and carry out other household tasks
- Cleans both the interior and exterior of the facility
- Handles any other duty as assigned by the facility manager
Grace & Mercy Group Home, LLC is set to become one of the leading group home facility in Florida which is why we are willing to take our time to cross every ‘Ts’ and dot every ‘Is’ as it relates to our business. We want our group home business to be the number one choice of all residence of Saint Augustine and other cities in Florida.
We know that if we are going to achieve the goals that we have set for our business, then we must ensure that we build our business on a solid foundation. We must ensure that we follow due process in setting up the business.
Even though our Chief Executive Officer (owner) has a robust experience in social work and taking care of people with disability and the aging population, we still went ahead to hire the services of business consultants who are specialized in setting up new businesses to help our organization conduct detailed SWOT analysis and to also provide professional support in helping us structure our business to indeed become a leader in the assisted living facility industry.
This is the summary of the SWOT analysis that was conducted for Grace & Mercy Group Home, LLC;
Our strength lies in the fact that we have a team of well qualified professionals manning various job positions in our organization. As a matter of fact, they are some of the best hands in the whole of Saint Augustine, Florida. Our location, the Business model we will be operating on, well equipped facility and our excellent customer service culture will definitely count as a strong strength for us.
Grace & Mercy Group Home, LLC is a new business which is owned by an individual (family), and we may not have the financial muscle to sustain the kind of publicity we want to give our business and also to attract some of the highly experienced hands in the nursing care facility industry.
- Opportunities:
The opportunities that are available to group home facilities are unlimited considering the fact that we have growing aging population and people with one form of disability or the other in the United States and we are going to position our business to make the best out of the opportunities that will be available to us in Saint Augustine – Florida.
Just like any other business, one of the major threats that we are likely going to face is economic downturn and unfavorable government policies. It is a fact that economic downturn affects purchasing / spending power. Another threat that may likely confront us is the arrival of a new and bigger / well established group home facility brand in same location where ours is located.
7. MARKET ANALYSIS
- Market Trends
Because of the essential nature of services provided by nursing care facilities / group homes, the industry was able to grow even in the face of economic stagnation. In addition, the continued growth of the aging population and people with one form of disability or the other has stimulated demand for industry services.
Since the aging population is more prone to injury and illness, and therefore requires more assistance with daily activities, the larger share of senior adults has propelled demand for nursing care facilities. Despite favorable demographic trends, unsatisfactory government funding has hindered industry growth.
The trend in the industry is that players in the industry are now flexible enough to adjust their services and facilities to attract more knowledgeable and educated residents by incorporating more technology and adapting to new markets
Another trend in the industry is that, in order to make group home facilities more affordable for low income individuals, many states in the United States of America are enacting changes to the portion of Medicaid which can be applied to Group Home Facilities.
Before now, only individuals living in nursing homes were typically provided Medicaid assistance, but in recent time, there are now a growing number of states that have recognized the importance of offering Medicaid dollars to senior citizens living in Group Home Facilities.
No doubt the Nursing Care Facility industry will continue to grow and become more profitable because the aging baby-boomer generation in Unites States is expected to drive increasing demand for this specialized services and care.
Grace & Mercy Group Home, LLC is in business to service the aging population and people with disabilities in Saint Augustine – Florida and other cities in Florida. We will ensure that we target both self – pay customers (who do not have Medicaid cover), and those who have Medicaid cover.
Generally, those who need the services of group home facilities are the aging population, people with one form of disabilities or the other and perhaps those who need daily help. The fact that we are going to open our doors to a wide range of customers does not in any way stop us from abiding by the rules and regulations governing the nursing care facility industry in the United States.
Our staff is well – trained to effectively service our customers and give them value for their monies. Our customers can be categorized into the following;
- The aging population
- People with one form of disability or the other (Both young and the elderly)
- The aged who might suffer from severe joint pains and every other age categories who falls under the conditions listed by the physician.
Aside from the competitions that exist amongst players in the nursing care facility industry, they also compete against other home healthcare services providers such as assisted living facilities.
To be highly competitive in the nursing care facility industry means that you should be able to secure a conducive and secured facility, deliver consistent quality patient service and should be able to meet the expectations of the children / family members paying for their loved elderly parents and people with disabilities in your facility.
Grace & Mercy Group Home, LLC is coming into the market well prepared to favorably compete in the industry. Our office facility is well positioned (centrally positioned) and visible, we have good security and the right ambience for elderly and disable people.
Our staff is well groomed in all aspect of group home facility services and all our employees are trained to provide customized customer service to all our clients. Our services will be carried out by highly trained professional nurse’s aides, medication management counselors, county aging workers, home health caregivers and home caregivers who know what it takes to give our highly esteemed customers value for their money.
Lastly, all our employees will be well taken care of, and their welfare package will be among the best within our category (startups group home facility business and other related businesses in the United States) in the industry. It will enable them to be more than willing to build the business with us and help deliver our set goals and achieve all our business aims and objectives.
- Sources of Income
Grace & Mercy Group Home, LLC will ensure that we do all we can to maximize the business by generating income from every legal means within the scope of our industry.
We will generate income by providing a conducive home for our residence; we will engage in services that will help our residence complete daily basic and simple tasks, such as taking medication or bathing, making dinners, having conversations, making appointments, and getting to work or a day service, budget their personal allowance, select photos for their room or album, meet neighbors and “carry out civic duties,” go grocery shopping, eat in restaurants, make emergency calls or inquiries, and exercise regularly amongst other activities.
One thing is certain; there would always be elderly people and people with disabilities who would need the services of group home facility.
We are well positioned to take on the available market in Saint Augustine – Florida and we are quite optimistic that we will meet our set target of generating enough income / profits from the first six month of operations and grow our group home facility business and our residences base.
We have been able to critically examine the group home services market and we have analyzed our chances in the industry and we have been able to come up with the following sales forecast. The sales projection is based on information gathered on the field and some assumptions that are peculiar to similar startups in Saint Augustine – Florida.
Below is the sales projection for Grace & Mercy Group Home, LLC, it is based on the location of our business and of course the wide range of related services that we will be offering;
- First Year-: $100,000 ( From Self – Pay Clients ): $250,000 ( From Medicaid Covers )
- Second Year-: $250,000 ( From Self – Pay Clients ): $500,000 ( From Medicaid Covers )
- Third Year-: $500,000 ( From Self – Pay Clients ): $1,500,000 ( From Medicaid Cover )
N.B : This projection is done based on what is obtainable in the industry and with the assumption that there won’t be any major economic meltdown and natural disasters within the period stated above. Please note that the above projection might be lower and at the same time it might be higher.
- Marketing Strategy and Sales Strategy
The marketing and sales strategy of Grace & Mercy Group Home, LLC will be based on generating long-term personalized relationships with our residence. In order to achieve that, we will ensure that we offer top notch all – round nursing care facility services at affordable prices compare to what is obtainable in Florida.
All our employees will be well trained and equipped to provide excellent and knowledgeable nursing care facility services and customer service. We know that if we are consistent with offering high quality nursing care facility service delivery and excellent customer service, we will increase the number of our customers by more than 25 percent for the first year and then more than 40 percent subsequently.
Before choosing a location for Grace & Mercy Group Home, LLC, we conducted a thorough market survey and feasibility studies in order for us to be able to be able to penetrate the available market and become the preferred choice for residence of Saint Augustine and other cities in Florida. We have detailed information and data that we were able to utilize to structure our business to attract the numbers of customers we want to attract per time.
We hired experts who have good understanding of the nursing care facility industry to help us develop marketing strategies that will help us achieve our business goal of winning a larger percentage of the available market in Florida.
In summary, Grace & Mercy Group Home, LLC will adopt the following sales and marketing approach to win customers over;
- Introduce our business by sending introductory letters to residence, clubs for elderly and people with disability and other stake holders in Florida
- Advertise our business in community based newspapers, local TV and local radio stations
- List our business on yellow pages ads (local directories)
- Leverage on the internet to promote our business
- Engage in direct marketing
- Leverage on word of mouth marketing (referrals)
- Enter into business partnership with hospitals, government agencies and health insurance companies.
- Attend health care related exhibitions / expos.
We are in the group home facility business -to become one of the market leaders and also to maximize profits hence we are going to explore all available conventional and non – conventional means to promote Grace & Mercy Group Home, LLC.
Grace & Mercy Group Home, LLC has a long term plan of building group home facilities in key cities in the United States of America which is why we will deliberately build our brand to be well accepted in Saint Augustine – Florida before venturing out.
As a matter of fact, our publicity and advertising strategy is not solely for winning customers over but to effectively communicate our brand to the general public. Here are the platforms we intend leveraging on to promote and advertise Grace & Mercy Group Home, LLC;
- Place adverts on both print (community based newspapers and magazines) and electronic media platforms
- Sponsor relevant community health programs that appeals to the aging population
- Leverage on the internet and social media platforms like; Instagram, Facebook , twitter, YouTube, Google + et al to promote our brand
- Install our Bill Boards on strategic locations all around Saint Augustine – Florida.
- Engage in road show from time to time in location with growing aging population
- Distribute our fliers and handbills in target areas with high concentration of aging population and people with disabilities
- Ensure that all our workers wear our branded shirts and all our vehicles are well branded with our company’s logo et al.
We are aware that for us to gain more grounds, we will need to enter the market with a very competitive price. Grace & Mercy Group Home, LLC will work towards ensuring that all our services are offered at highly competitive prices compare to what is obtainable in The United States of America.
On the average, group home facility service providers usually leverage on the fact that a good number of their clients do not pay the service charge from their pockets; private insurance companies, Medicare and Medicaid are responsible for the payment.
In view of that, it is easier for group home facility service providers to bill their clients based in their discretions. Be that as it may, we have put plans in place to offer discount services once in a while and also to reward our loyal customers especially when they refer clients to us.
- Payment Options
At Grace & Mercy Group Home, LLC, our payment policy is all inclusive because we are quite aware that different people prefer different payment options as it suits them. Here are the payment options that will be available in every of our outlets;
- Payment by cash
- Payment via Point of Sale (POS) Machine
- Payment via online bank transfer (online payment portal)
- Payment via Mobile money
- Check (only from loyal customers)
In view of the above, we have chosen banking platforms that will help us achieve our payment plans without any itches.
13. Startup Expenditure (Budget)
If you are looking towards starting a nursing care facility business, then you should be ready to go all out to ensure that you raise enough capital to cover some of the basic expenditure that you are going to incur. The truth is that starting this type of business does not come cheap.
You would need money to secure a standard residential facility big enough to accommodate the number of people you plan accommodating per time, you could need money to acquire medical equipment and supply and you would need money to pay your workforce and pay bills for a while until the revenue you generate from the business becomes enough to pay them.
The items listed below are the basics that we would need when starting our assisted living facility business in the United States;
- The Total Fee for Registering the Business in the United States – $750.
- Legal expenses for obtaining licenses and permits – $1,500.
- Marketing promotion expenses for the grand opening of Grace & Mercy Group Home, LLC in the amount of $3,500 and as well as flyer printing (2,000 flyers at $0.04 per copy) for the total amount of – $3,580.
- Cost for hiring Consultant – $2,500.
- Cost for Computer Software (Accounting Software, Payroll Software, CRM Software, Microsoft Office, QuickBooks Pro, drug interaction software, Physician Desk Reference software) – $7,000
- Insurance (general liability, workers’ compensation and property casualty) coverage at a total premium – $3,400.
- Cost for leasing a standard and secured facility in Saint Augustine – Florida for 2 years – $500,000
- Cost for facility remodeling – $20,000.
- Other start-up expenses including stationery ($500) and phone and utility deposits ($2,500).
- Operational cost for the first 3 months (salaries of employees, payments of bills et al) – $100,000
- The cost for Start-up inventory (stocking with a wide range of products such as toiletries, food stuffs and drugs et al) – $50,000
- Storage hardware (bins, rack, shelves,) – $3,720
- The cost for the purchase of furniture and gadgets (Beds, Computers, Printers, Telephone, TVs, tables and chairs et al): $4,000.
- The cost of Launching a Website: $700
- Miscellaneous: $10,000
We would need an estimate of $750,000 to successfully set up our group home facility in Saint Augustine – Florida. Please note that this amount includes the salaries of all the staff for the first month of operation.
Generating Funding / Startup Capital for Grace & Mercy Group Home, LLC
Grace & Mercy Group Home, LLC is a family business that is solely owned and financed by Mrs. Grace Smith and her family. They do not intend to welcome any external business partner which is why he has decided to restrict the sourcing of the start – up capital to 3 major sources.
These are the areas Grace & Mercy Group Home, LLC intends to generate our start – up capital;
- Generate part of the start – up capital from personal savings
- Source for soft loans from family members and friends
- Apply for loan from my Bank
N.B: We have been able to generate about $200,000 (Personal savings $150,000 and soft loan from family members $50,000) and we are at the final stages of obtaining a loan facility of $550,000 from our bank. All the papers and document have been signed and submitted, the loan has been approved and any moment from now our account will be credited with the amount.
The future of a business lies in the numbers of loyal customers that they have the capacity and competence of the employees, their investment strategy and the business structure. If all of these factors are missing from a business (company), then it won’t be too long before the business close shop.
One of our major goals of starting Grace & Mercy Group Home, LLC is to build a business that will survive off its own cash flow without the need for injecting finance from external sources once the business is officially running. We know that one of the ways of gaining approval and winning customers over is to offer our group home services a little bit cheaper than what is obtainable in the market and we are well prepared to survive on lower profit margin for a while.
Grace & Mercy Group Home, LLC will make sure that the right foundation, structures and processes are put in place to ensure that our staff welfare are well taken of. Our company’s corporate culture is designed to drive our business to greater heights and training and re – training of our workforce is at the top burner.
As a matter of fact, profit-sharing arrangement will be made available to all our management staff and it will be based on their performance for a period of three years or more. We know that if that is put in place, we will be able to successfully hire and retain the best hands we can get in the industry; they will be more committed to help us build the business of our dreams.
Check List / Milestone
- Business Name Availability Check: Completed
- Business Registration: Completed
- Opening of Corporate Bank Accounts: Completed
- Securing Point of Sales (POS) Machines: Completed
- Opening Mobile Money Accounts: Completed
- Opening Online Payment Platforms: Completed
- Application and Obtaining Tax Payer’s ID: In Progress
- Application for business license and permit: Completed
- Purchase of Insurance for the Business: Completed
- Leasing of facility and remodeling the facility: In Progress
- Conducting Feasibility Studies: Completed
- Generating capital from family members: Completed
- Applications for Loan from the bank: In Progress
- Writing of Business Plan: Completed
- Drafting of Employee’s Handbook: Completed
- Drafting of Contract Documents and other relevant Legal Documents: In Progress
- Design of The Company’s Logo: Completed
- Graphic Designs and Printing of Packaging Marketing / Promotional Materials: In Progress
- Recruitment of employees: In Progress
- Purchase of Medical Equipment and vans et al: In Progress
- Purchase of the Needed furniture, racks, shelves, computers, electronic appliances, office appliances and CCTV: In progress
- Creating Official Website for the Company: In Progress
- Creating Awareness for the business both online and around the community: In Progress
- Health and Safety and Fire Safety Arrangement (License): Secured
- Opening party / launching party planning: In Progress
Frequently Asked Questions
Are you qualified to run a group home.
To qualify to run and manage a group home, you need a master’s or bachelor’s degree in social work, public health, or a similar field. In addition, you will need certain skills like excellent communication, time management, and leadership skills.
2. What Is A Youth Group Home?
Youth group home is a group home that provides therapy, 24-hour supervision and support to troubled teens in a home-like setting. Unlike large residential treatment facilities or psychiatric hospitals, youth group homes serve a small number of teens.
They reside in a family-like setting with trained staff. These group homes may house youths with physical disabilities, mental disabilities, emotional problems or those in transition between foster homes.
3. Who Qualifies You To Live In A Group Home?
Residents of group homes tend to have some type of chronic mental disorder that impairs their ability to live independently. Note that many group home residents also have physical disabilities such as impairments of vision or ambulation.
These individuals require continual assistance to complete daily living and self-care tasks. Some also require supervision due to behaviour that may be dangerous to self or others, such as aggression or a tendency to run away.
4. What Certifications Are Needed To Open A Group Home?
- CPR certification
- Group Home Administrator 40 hour ICTP
- Certified Occupational Health Nurse (COHN)
- Informatics Nursing Certification (RN-BC)
- Board-Certified Case Manager (CCM)
- Certified Addictions Registered Nurse (CARN)
- Local fire marshal’s certificate
5. What Is A Group Home For QRTP?
QRTP is a specific category of non-foster family home setting, for which public child welfare agencies are expected to meet detailed assessment, case planning, documentation, judicial determinations and ongoing review and permanency hearing requirements for a child to be placed in and continue to receive federal Title IV-E funding for the placement. QRTPs are a subset of licensed group care facilities; they do not wholly replace them.
6. How Do You Get Funding To Start A Group Home?
Group homes are licensed and monitored by state departments of human services, licensing offices or bureaus, and funding for their operations may come from different sources.
- Microfinancing
- Peer-to-Peer Lending
- State and Federal Government Grants and Loans
- Private Foundations
7. What Is Needed To Start A Home Day-Care?
- Adequate funding
- A suitable location
- Furniture and supplies
- Child care safety equipment such as fire extinguishers, disaster supplies, etc
- Child care software
- Qualified staff
- Policies and procedures
8. What Do You Need To Work In A Group Home?
To become a group home worker, you need a high school diploma or equivalent. However, some employers may require post-secondary education, such as an associate or bachelor’s degree in social work.
You will also need to acquire an internship at a group home to gain hands-on experience working with residents. Nonetheless, to be a good group home worker, you need lots of patience and empathy, and the perseverance to handle different physical, emotional, and behavioural issues.
9. How Do You Start A Group Home At Risk Youth?
Opening a group home at risk youth requires adhering to all licensing requirements and passing the inspection and application process. Nonetheless, the steps involved in opening a group home at risk youth include;
- Research the current availability of group homes for teens in your community
- Write a mission statement and a business plan
- Appoint a board of directors
- Find funding for your teen sanctuary
- Apply for licensing, non-profit tax exemption, incorporation and other legal protections and sanctions your board recommends.
- Buy an existing building and hire a contractor to refurbish the structure, or purchase property on which your group home will be built.
- Solicit community help to build your teen group home so you can save money on construction.
- Get occupancy permits and submit to inspections from village, city, township and/or county authorities.
- Hire staff and conduct criminal background checks.
- Keep a wait-list of clients to fill beds as residents’ age out, move out or leave.
10. What Qualifications Do You Need To Open A Care Home?
All 50 states require these professionals hold licensure, although requirements for receiving this requirement vary by state. Nonetheless, to qualify to open as a care home in the United States, you must:
- be at least 21 years of age;
- be of good moral character and suitability;
- hold a Bachelor’s (or higher level) Degree from an accredited educational institution, including (or supplemented by) 15 credit hours of specific education;
- complete an Administrator-In-Training (AIT) Program (Internship) OR qualifying field experience;
- complete a course in nursing home administration;
- Receive a passing score on the Nursing Home Administrator Licensing Examination.
11. What Is Your First Step?
The very step when looking to start a care home in the United States is to create a well detailed business plan that identifies the type of group home you would like to open. You need to make a business plan for your care agency because it is the base of your home and will be needed for each step you follow. A business plan includes the following:
- Executive summary – Explain the basics of your care home.
- Company description – Write the mission and goals of your care home.
- Services – Describe what services you will be providing.
- Marketing plan – How will people learn about your business? Decide the pricing of your business as well.
- Management and organization – Describe the ownership structure of you care home business.
- Operational plan – Explain the facility and staff, as well as supplies you will need to operate.
- Financial plan – This is where you will write a cash flow projection, balance sheet snapshot and break-even analysis.
12. What Qualifications Must The Program Administrator Of The Group Home Possess?
Group home program administrators are responsible for planning, directing, and coordinating their group home program or service. Howbeit, the qualifications they are expected to posses include;
- A Group Home Administrator Certificate
- A Bachelor’s Degree in Behavioural or Social Sciences from an accredited school is required.
- A Master’s Degree in Behavioural or Social Sciences is preferred.
- One year experience in a residential setting
- One year experience as a supervisor
13. How Much Does It Cost To Start A Group Home?
The amount you need will depend on many factors, but on the average, it will cost between $115,000 — $155,000.
14. How Profitable Is A Group Home?
A group home in the United States is quite profitable especially since demand from individuals aged 15 and under is expected to remain high because the majority of orphanages and group homes cater to children in this age bracket. Note that a properly retrofitted group home can reap $7,000, or more, per bed in revenue. And with 8 to 12 beds in a mansion setting, the rewards can be stunning.
15. How Do Group Homes Work?
The treatment provided in a group home tend to primarily focus on improving self-esteem, teaching new skills and holding residents accountable for their behaviour. Some group homes offer specialized treatment for specific issues, like autism, substance abuse, or inappropriate sexual behaviour. Most group home programs include:
- Anger management
- Drug education
- Family therapy
- Group therapy
- Individual therapy
- Individualized behaviour programs
16. What Does A Group Home Manager Do?
A group Home Manager directs operations in care facilities for the elderly or the disabled. Duties of a group home manager include overseeing daily operations, developing budgets, hiring and training staff, scheduling employees, and implementing programs for residents.
17. How Do You Start A Senior Living Home?
The following steps are how you can get started in the senior living industry.
- Acquire Land or a Home
- Contract a Real Estate Agent and Check Zoning Laws
- Hire an Architect and Building Contractors
- Apply for Permits
- Hire the Right People
- Secure the Necessary License
- Purchase Furniture
- Plan for Marketing and Advertising
18. Can You Turn Your Home Into An Assisted Living Facility?
Yes, you can convert your home into an assisted living facility . However, you need to see the regulations in your state or city and apply them to the structure you are considering for conversion to an Assisted Living Facility.
19. How to Start a Group Home In California?
There are several agencies involved in the oversight of group homes in California. The processes to start a group home in California include;
- Contact your local Regional Centre.
- Attend a “Residential Services Training” through your Regional Centre
- Develop a “program design” that shows how you can meet and fill the current needs of your local Regional Centre.
- Attend an orientation at Community Care Licensing (CCL) for Adult Care, Child Care or Elderly Care.
- Apply for a license
- Apply for “Vendorization” through your local Regional Centre
- Accept your first client from the placement packets and proudly open your Group Home.
20. How Do You Convert Your Home Into An Assisted Living Home?
Depending on your house, neighbourhood and state, it may not be possible to convert your house into an assisted living facility. If it is, the process and steps will include;
- Check the zoning of your property with your city or county. Assisted living facilities are businesses and are typically not allowed in residential zones.
- Research your state laws and regulations on assisted living facility licensing.
- Understand the regulations on facility space, structural and safety requirements and compare them to your home.
- Seek adequate financing to make physical changes to your home as well as to hire the clinical and support staff required under state law.
- Hire a contractor with experience in assisted living facilities, skilled nursing facilities or other health care structures.
- Apply to your state for licensure as an assisted living facility.
- Hire or contract required staff which usually includes a nurse who visits a certain number of hours per week.
21. How To Start A Group Home In Michigan?
Here is how you can start a group home in Michigan;
- Consult with a licensed group home institution and take notes on its current operating setup.
- Meet the state requirements for group homes.
- Hire competent staff
- Create a building plan review and submit it to the Department of Energy, Labour and Economic Growth (DELEG) and the Bureau of Fire Services (BFS).
- Apply for a local zoning approval to start a group home that fits seven or more clients
- Apply for a group home license in Michigan
22. How To Start A Group Home In Ohio?
The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) is responsible for providing guidelines for group homes, which must be licensed by ODJFS or an approved local entity. Here is how you can start a group home in Ohio;
- Review your financial situation and determine if you can afford to purchase a house
- Determine the location and house
- Purchase the house
- Develop a written emergency plan that outlines procedures for fires, evacuations, missing persons and severe weather
- Sign and submit the application to the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services
- Attend the onsite inspection
- Hire the home staff
23. What Are The Steps To Start A Group Home In Kansas?
Here is how you can start a group home in Kansas;
- Decide which kind of group home you would like to have in Kansas.
- Choose the programs your group home is going to offer.
- Decide on the exact location of your group home.
- Decide on the number of occupants you’d like to have in your group home.
- Make sure that you know the type of employees and the manpower you need to operate your group home.
- Obtain a group home license from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.
- Research grants that would match your choice of business.
24. How Many Group Homes Can You Open?
As a new entity, licensing agencies will be eager to see how you succeed with one program. Howbeit, when licensed, if the program is successful in its initial operation (a period of approximately 15-18 months), you may apply for a license for another facility.
25. How To Start A Group Home In Texas?
Here is how you can start a group home in Texas;
- Register the type of group home you want based on the type of people you wish to help in your community.
- Write a business plan that summarizes your vision, mission, business goals, start-up and operating costs , marketing plan and expenses, financial projections and competitor analysis.
- Buy, rent or lease a home or facility that is sufficient to house the number of people you want
- Comply with local fire building codes and zoning regulations.
- Contact the Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services (DADS) and Texas attorney general’s office.
- Obtain the license to open the group home in Texas from DADS.
- Register your business legal structure and business name with the Texas Secretary of State.
- Obtain general liability insurance and business insurance
- Hire employees who have a clean criminal background and a driver’s license.
26. Where Can You Get Information And Financial Help To Open A Foster Or Group Home?
Group homes are licensed and monitored by state departments of human services, licensing offices or bureaus, and funding for their operations may come from different sources. Note that contacting the local county child welfare agency is a first good step to learn about requirements and financing options concerning Foster or group homes.
Child Welfare Information Gateway, a service of the Children’s Bureau, Administration for Children and Families, also provides contact information for State Foster Care Program Managers and State Licensing Specialists on its website.
27. What Does A Residential Care Worker Do?
Residential care refers to personal care services given to children and adults unable to live independently. Responsible for providing these services are residential care workers, professionals who focus on improving the physical and mental well-being of their clients. The primary role of residential care workers is to provide physical care to patients who cannot perform day-to-day living tasks.
29. How Do You Start A Group Home For Special Needs Adults?
The necessary steps to take include;
- Contact a Social Service agency such as the Department of Human Services (DHS) or a private charity such as Catholic Social Services or Lutheran Social Services.
- Find housing that meets licensing and inspection requirements
- Attend the workshop or other licensing sessions required for licensure.
- Apply for grants and seek funding for your group home.
- Evaluate your budget regularly, and make changes as needed.
- Renew your license.
30. What Is The Difference Between A Group Home And A Residential Treatment Centre?
The key differences between a group home and residential treatment centre are the intensity of the treatment and environment where treatment is carried out in. Group homes consist of 24/7 monitoring, while residential treatment centres consist of monitoring, but not quite on a 24/7 intensity.
Another key difference between the two is the length of treatment. Note that most people that seek treatment for mental health issues are treated on an outpatient basis, in which they attend regular meetings – usually 2-3 times per week.
While group home treatment is usually short-term. Residential treatment has the potential to be ongoing – it all depends on how an individual responds to treatment.
31. What Is The Single Point Of Entry?
Single point of entry simply refers to a program from which a current or potential long-term care consumer can get long-term care information, screening, assessment of need, care planning, supports coordination, and referral to appropriate long-term care supports and services.
GOC is responsible for the coordination and oversight of the Single Point of Entry process. GOC staff conducts the Single Point of Entry Training and provides technical support to prospective residential child care program providers.
32. How Do You Start A Non-Medical Home Care Business?
To start a non-medical home care business, here are steps to consider;
- Determine the Structure of Your Business.
- Create a Business Entity and Meet Licensing Requirements.
- Develop Your Policies and Procedures.
- Set Up Your Financial Systems.
- Recruit and Hire Office Staff.
- Develop a Recruitment and Retention Plan for Caregivers.
- Scheduling, Billing, and Time Keeping Systems.
- Set Up Your Office.
- Develop Your Sales and Marketing Plan
- Measuring the Success of Your Business
33. What Do I Need To Ask Myself Before Starting The SPE Process?
The process of becoming licensed to operate a group home for children is not easy and will take a lot of time and energy on your part. You need to ask yourself:
- Am I qualified to run a group home?
- What experience do I have with the population I intend to serve?
- What data/information do I have that indicates a program is needed in the area where I plan to locate?
- Do I have the six months of financial resources the State recommends to start a new business? If I am dependent upon loans, will I have the resources to pay them back?
- What is special about my program that will make it attractive to placement workers?
- Do I have the business skills needed to run a small business? If not, whom can I depend upon to help me with the business side?
- Do I have the management skills needed to run a program? If not, whom can I depend upon to help me with the program side of the business?
34. What Are The Benefits Of Transitional Housing?
Transitional housing more or less describes a community project or program that provides temporary housing and support services for homeless people until they can find permanent solutions. Its benefits include;
- Reduced Crime
- Disease Prevention
- Substance Abuse
- Employment Assistance
- Self Esteem
The Steps to take include;
- Decide what type of group home you would like to open and create a business plan
- Find a location that will suit your group home needs
- Consult with local agencies and become a certified group home
- Pass a safety inspection and take classes to become a foster parent if you would like a group home for children.
- Apply with the local Florida area agencies if you wish to start a group home for disabled individuals.
- Contact the Florida Department of Elder Affairs if you would like to run a group home for the elderly.
36. How Much Does It Cost To Build A Custom Home?
Custom homes cost anywhere from $350,000 to $1.5 million or more. Expect to pay $300 to $500 per square foot for custom and luxury builds. Custom homes come in almost any shape and size.
37. What Happens After I Attend A Single Point Of Entry Training?
After attending the SPE Training, you will be issued the SCYFIS (State Children, Youth and Families Information System) logon and a password needed to submit your proposal online.
38. How Much Does A Group Home Owner Make A Year ?
Most group home owners really do not profit off of their group homes because it is about helping the residents or whoever occupies the group home. However, if you are running a group home to make money, you could get about 400 dollars a week per child from the state.
A lot of people do get the money but most of it is put back into the group home to pay the expenses of the occupants and the home itself. The expenses of the group home are mandatory if you want to keep your home from getting shut down or closed. But in a year a group home owner makes about $20,800 per child.
39. How Much Do Group Home Workers Get Paid?
According to the BLS, the median salary of a group home worker was $25,280 per year as of 2019, or $12.15 per hour. Also, job website PayScale notes that supervisory positions in group home jobs pay an average of $14.30 per hour, with salaries typically ranging from $11.13 to $18.75 per hour. Annualized, the average full time salary is $36,498, with a typical range between $28,000 and $50,000.
40. How Much Money Do You Need To Start An Assisted Living Facility?
An article by Forbes on assisted living facilities estimates the cost of an 80-bed facility at $11 million (or $130,000 to $145,000 per bed). Howbeit, ensure to add three to six months’ operating expenses to the budgeted start-up costs. The level of operating costs will depend on the type and size of the facility to be created.
41. What Happens After You Submit A Proposal To GOC?
Within 90 days of receiving it, GOC will put your proposal through rigorous examination. Note that after the review, you will either be required to submit additional information, or your proposal will be forwarded to the appropriate licensing agency.
If you are asked to submit additional information, you will be asked to submit it within 60 days of receipt of the letter or the State will consider your proposal withdrawn. The entire process – including the review of the proposal and any proposal revisions requested by GOC, and the process for acquiring a license by one of the licensing agencies – can take up to one year or longer. The length of time for the entire process will depend on the quality of your proposal submission.
42. What Experience Do You Need To Have For The Population You Intend To Serve?
- Crisis Intervention
- Independent Living
- Personal Care
- Other Skills like CPR and patient care
43. How Do You Start A Non-Profit Assisted Living Facility?
While all assisted living communities charge a fee to residents, non-profit facilities are different because any profit the facility makes after all expenses are paid goes back into that facility. No profits are taken by shareholders or anyone else. To start a non-profit assisted living facility, here are steps to consider;
- Choose a name
- Build, purchase or convert an existing facility for your new assisted living business.
- File articles of incorporation
- Apply for your IRS tax exemption
- Apply for a state tax exemption
- Draft bylaws
- Appoint directors
- Hold a meeting of the board
- Obtain a specialized license as an assisted living business.
- Obtain an operator’s license required by your state.
44. What Are Some Good Rules To Follow In Developing Your Proposed Program?
It is pertinent you consider your proposal as a business plan. Take time to think about your vision for your program. Your completed proposal should be a picture of what your program will look like and what it will take to operate it.
It should encompass every aspect of your business such as: description of your program, operational plan, description of staff and their duties and responsibilities, services offered, start-up budget and operational budget. Please be sure to read through your proposal thoroughly before submission.
45. How Many Youths May You Have In Your Program?
Have it in mind that several factors determine the maximum number of youths you may have in your program. These factors include the Fair Housing Act as amended in 1988; COMAR regulations, fire authority, and health and safety.
46. How Much Do Resident Managers Make?
As of Mar 17, 2022, the average annual pay for a Resident Manager in the United States is $40,250 a year. This equates to approximately $19.35 an hour, $774/week, and $3,354/month.
47. What Types Of Group Homes Are Licensed By DHR, DJS, And DHMH?
DHR Licenses the following types of group homes:
- Independent Living Programs
- Shelter Care
- Regular Group Homes
- Respite Care
- Teen Mother Baby Programs
- Treatment Foster Care
DJS Licenses the following types of group homes:
- Secure Group Homes
DHMH Licenses the following types of group homes:
- Residential facilities for children with developmental disabilities
- Therapeutic Group Homes
48. Is Owning An Assisted Living Facility Profitable ?
Yes, the senior care industry in the US has never looked more promising than it does now. Thanks to the mass retirement of baby boomers and massive leaps in healthcare technology, we are experiencing the largest population of older adults than ever before.
The US assisted living home market size was estimated at $73.6 billion in 2018, with a CAGR of 6.4% over the forecast period. Stable assisted living communities have a profit operating profit margin between 28 and 38% – though the margin decreases in facilities with a memory care component.
Note that a single-family home can generate $36,000 of gross profits and $10,000 of monthly cash flow. This value varies based on a range of aspects, like its size, location, and amenities.
49. Where Can You Find A List Of Homes That Are Designated As Residential Homes For Developmentally Disabled Individuals?
Group homes that serve persons with disabilities are regulated by the Agency for Persons with Disabilities. Group homes that serve children will be regulated by the Department of Children and Families. Meanwhile, certain group homes for the elderly may be licensed by the Agency for Health Care Administration. These agencies provide detailed lists of homes designated as residential homes for the population they cover.
50. Are Group Homes Non Profit?
Group homes can be run either as a non-profit or a for-profit venture.
51. Can A Non-Profit Organization Own A Long-Term Care Facility?
No, nonprofit organizations cannot own long- term care facilities
52. How Much Profit Do Care Homes Make?
Non-medical home care rates currently range from $20 an hour to $40 per hour, depending on the location. Small towns and rural areas, where living costs are lower, are less, and big cities, where living costs are high, tend to be on the high side. Nonetheless, the national average is $27 per hour, which works out to $54,000 a year with a 40 hour work week.
53. How Long Does Your Proposal Have To Be?
Note that there is no limit on the length of your proposal. You will only have to follow the Proposal Outline and the COMAR regulations (14.31.06) when developing your proposal.
54. How Do You Start A Private Care Business?
Due to the aging of baby boomers and increased life expectancy, the number of senior citizens over the age of 65 is increasing every year. With that comes the increasing need for medical and personal care as well. This offers great business opportunities for entrepreneurs in the healthcare industry to start your own private care business, here are steps to consider.
- Create a business plan.
- Register with the state
- Obtain Medicare and Medicaid certifications.
- Hire great staff.
- Get your clients.
55. Where Can You Find Classes For Assisted Living Training?
- CareAcademy
- American Caregivers Association
- Family Caregiver Videos and Webinars
- Video Experiences of Fellow Caregivers
- Interactive Caregiver Courses and Videos
56. How Do AFC Homes Get Paid?
- Social Security
- State Based, Non-Medicaid Assistance Programs
- Veterans’ Programs
- Reverse Mortgages & Home Equity Options
- Life Insurance Policies
- Long Term Care Insurance
57. What Are Tips For Writing A Good Proposal?
- Be clear, concise and logical.
- Make it reader friendly.
- Leave plenty of time to research the type of program you want to develop and whether that type of program is needed in the area you are considering.
- Familiarize yourself with State regulations, policies and procedures that will govern your program .
- Use the SPE Proposal Outline as it will help you structure the information that is needed in the proposal.
- Do not use jargon and contractions.
- Do not rely heavily on acronyms.
- Proofread, proofread, proofread.
58. How Does A Homeless Shelter Work?
A homeless shelter more or less starts with a group of individuals who intend to develop a plan to help people in the community who need shelter. It eventually grows into a plan to put up a homeless shelter . Most homeless shelters are funded by sponsors such as hospitals, companies, professionals, and individuals. Among the programs provided by homeless shelters are:
- Providing shelter
- Distribution of basic necessities
- Rehabilitation
59. What Is The HUD Septic System Distance Requirement?
According to HUD, a domestic well is expected to be located a minimum of 100 feet from the septic tanks drain field, where the waste is disposed, and a minimum of 10 feet from any property line. In some cases, state or local regulations have greater distance requirements which must be met.
60. How Much Does The Government Pay For Group Homes?
$400 a week per child from the state
More on Group Home
Group Home Business Plan
Starting a group home can be as challenging as it is emotionally rewarding. Group homes are typically residences that support individuals that are typically incapable of living independently. Residents are commonly either physically or mentally disabled and may require the ongoing assistance of a medical professional to ensure their wellbeing. There may many factors to creating a successful group home that Pro Business Plans has worked with many group homes and general care facilities to acquire financing and successfully outline a clear plan for the future.
A group home business plan most consider many dimensions in order to professionally enter the market to begin providing service to the community. Aside from general medial and compliance factors, it must operate in a financially sound manner and have a system in place for acquiring new patients. A good group home business plan typically consists of around 20 pages and briefly covers the overall business model, financial projections, and promotions.
Want a Group Home Business Plan Template?
Business model.
The business model for a group home covers many components from the revenue structure, to its residents, caregivers, and operations model. The group home should have a clear idea of what clients that it seeks to accept and a general operations model in place in order for caring for patients of various disabilities.
Marketing Plan
A group home must be subtle and professional in the method of acquiring new clients. Many methods include referrals from medical care providers, friends and family. Having a good online presence is also important, maintaining a reliable website to establish trust and confidence to the primary caregivers. Rather than traditional mass promotions, group homes should emphasize their understanding and professional staff.
Financial Projections
A good financial model may depend on what the bank or investor wants if the group home is seeking financing. Otherwise, it is important for the company to outline a reasonable budget to balance expenses with cost. Creating a financial model for a group home can be adjusted to meet revenue or expense requirements, so that appropriate budgeting may be made accordingly.
What is Included in Our Custom Group Home Business Plan?
- SWOT Analysis
- Competitive Analysis
- Profitability Analysis
- Personnel Plan
- Organizational Chart
- Company Valuation
- Executive Summary
- Company Description
- Keys to Success
- Three Year Objectives
- Product or Service Description
Market Research
- Fundraising Support
- 12 Month & 3 Year Profit & Loss
- 3 Year Balance Sheet
- 12 Month & 3 Year Sales Forecast
- 12 Month & 3 Year Cash Flows
- Break-Even Analysis
- Financial Ratio Analysis
- Management Team
The ultimate
Group home business plan template for startups.
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A business plan built by the leading experts.
Regardless if you are opening a new business, or expanding an existing one, having a business plan can help you to make more informed decisions and manage your money. It is also required by many lenders as part of your loan application. This business plan template is updated annually to reflect the most up-to-date information on how to create a profitable operation. It was created by Chase Hughes , our CEO, and has evolved over hundreds of client engagements over the past 10+ years to become the backbone of operations and management for 1,000s of entrepreneurs.
Project future revenues using real industry data
Fully-compatible with Microsoft Excel and Word.
Critical information for operating and running the business.
Annually updated market research specific to your market.
What is a Business Plan?
A Business Plan is a description of the business, market, and expected financials. Plans may be used to increase sales and profitability, outperform competitors, and used to obtain bank loans or investor funding. For startup founders and small business owners, the Business Plan is a fundamental resource for managing the business and making educated business decisions about the company’s future. There’s no need to reinvent the wheel, though. There’s a standardized set of information and variables for most small businesses including the financial model, market research, and basic business overview that most executives are familiarized with.
Business Description
Summary of what it does, how it operates, key staffing and operations procedures, risk & success factors, and management team bios.
Third-party information on the market size, key trends, growth rates, and competition both overall and for a specified region.
Complete financial projections including Revenue, Cost of Goods Sold, and Operating Expenses to produce Profit & Loss statement, Cash Flow statement, and Balance Sheet.
Comprehensive plan including market launch, social media, promotional strategies, pricing strategy, and web presence.
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Group home business plan template [updated 2023].
VIII. Management Team
This Section's Contents
Management Team Members
Hiring plan.
[Company Name] is led by [Founder’s name], who has worked for [xx] years for various living facilities around [company location]. [Founder] is a licensed Group Home Administrator, nurse, and social health worker with over [xx] years of experience. He is truly passionate when it comes to taking care of people with disabilities. He knew in his heart that this disadvantaged and deserving segment of the population deserved a better quality of care.
[Founder] graduated from the University of ABC, where he majored in Public Health.
[Founder] will serve as the CEO. In order to launch and maintain a high-quality group home, the company will need to hire the following personnel:
- Medical Director
- Group Home Director
- Nurses [Number]
- Accountant [Number]
- Maintenance Personnel [Number]
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Group Home Business Plan Home I. Executive Summary II. Company Overview III. Industry Analysis IV. Customer Analysis V. Competitive Analysis VI. Marketing Plan VII. Operations Plan VIII. Management Team IX. Financial Plan
Group Home Business Plan Sample
Group home business plan guide.
It is recommended that after writing your plan, you should ensure the full implementation of its contents, as only this can lead to sustainable growth.
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Group Home Business Plan: How to set up a successful group home
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Do you need an efficient group home business plan that you can rely upon in your sojourn to start the business? Are you in dire need of brilliant ideas on how to set up a group home? If yes, this article get you covered.
Apparently, group homes allow people with disabilities or humble individuals to happily live together semi-independently without them interfering with each other business.
Simply put, a group home is an independent or private residence built for the elderly ones, children, young people, or the sick ones who cannot live, because of a reason or the other, live with their families.
In line with the above, people with disabilities or chronic diseases who may be seniors or adults but can’t properly take care of themselves when left alone are also taken to group homes.
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While this real estate business idea is lucrative, you must understand the following to get the business up and running.
Read also: How to start a record label successfully
How To Set up A Successful Group Home
The incessant demand for group homes in the United States for the adult and elderly ones cannot be overemphasized.
So if you want to help the old and the vulnerable and at the same time ensure you generate revenue through it, then this group home business is for you.
Let’s get started…
1. Let your desired group home be determined.
The first step to setting up a successful group home is to define the kind of group home you desired to open.
In addition, let your intentions be cleared as to whether you’ll be setting up a group assisted living facility for the older folks or a home for the humble citizens.
Owning a group home purposely for either of the two sets of people above requires different planning and a different focus.
Besides, a group home facility for developmentally disabled inhabitants requires trained and experienced staff to deal with any potential challenges or outbursts of living semi-independent and, even, with a disability.
Read also: 7 things to know before visiting Washington D.C
However, some other popular niches or areas that you can focus on in the group home industry are;
- Group home for the seniors or elderlies;
- In-home personal care facility;
- Home meal delivery ;
- Disability group support;
- Assisted living facilities;
- Daycare services for people with disabilities;
- Medical assisted group home, etc.
Therefore, know what you want, consider your area and level of expertise before starting the group home business.
2. Feasibility study
You can’t come up with a good group home business plan without carrying out a feasibility study.
You need to embark on extensive market research to understand how the industry is being run.
Check your neighborhood to see the kind of group home facility that will best answer the community problem.
Also, conduct demographics and psychographics research to see if you are on the right track.
So when you are done with the fact-finding and investigation about your intending group home facility, then it’s time to go legal.
3. Write an efficient business plan
One of the vital steps on how to set up a group home is writing an efficient group home business plan. It states who you are, why you are running the project, what you envision to happen in the future, etc.
Besides, the application process for licensing and business registration requires you to show a clear and probable plan on how your home facility safe, how you intend to serve the residents, enrich their lives, keep them healthy, etc.
Not limited to that, an effective group home business plan will help you define the market, explain how you can attract new residents, opportunity cost, develop budgets, projected income and expenses for five years to come, etc.
Having a firm and clear business plan is like having a solid foundation to build on.
The plan makes the business pass through all sorts of hurdles excellently and also serves as a road map that can be referred to in the time of need.
4. Do the necessary paperwork
Every state has its laws and they are quite different from one another. Therefore, you must note that group home requirements differ from state to state depending on the demography you plan to serve.
For elderly or seniors group homes, seek licensing and permission specifically from your state’s bureau of disability and aging services.
For a group home for humble citizens suffering from Down syndrome, autism, and other chronic developmental conditions, visit your state developmental services department for the necessary license.
All in all, visiting the exact state department to obtain, fill, and sign all the proper and necessary licensing requirements is very vital in your journey to learn how to set up a group home.
5. Register your business as a legal entity
Also, the group home business registration must come up immediately after you must have filled all the necessary paperwork and you must have been licensed to carry on the business.
This means, the act of seeking permission and licensing plus registering the business as a legal entity are two sides of a coin. You can’t register for a business you are not licensed to establish and vice versa.
So to avoid any legal battle with the government, register your group home with the necessary department immediately you get the license and obtain a Federal employer I.D number from the IRS.
Also, look into every commercial insurance policy in your state particularly their workers’ compensation, general liability policy, and professional liability insurance.
Doing this from the inception will save you a lot of time in the long run.
However, some of the necessary insurance policy that you should consider opting for if you intend to set up your own group home business in the United States are as follows;
- General Insurance;
- Fire Insurance;
- Theft Insurance;
- Health Insurance;
- Workers Compensation;
- Liability Insurance;
- Overhead expense disability policy; etc.
6. Choose a unique business name
You need a business name for your brand and as such, you have to choose the right and perfect name for your proposed group home as the name you choose will go a long way in living a perfect impression on your target audience.
Let the name depict the kind of elderly home brand you intend to establish. Let the name be easy to pronounce and simple to remember; very distinct, memorable, and unique.
Remember that you are picking the name for your target market — elderly, sick, young, or destitute — and not yourself. Their interest should come first in so doing.
7. Know your competitors
Regardless of whatever you have heard or read pointing to the fact that the group home industry is one with little or no dominant companies or competitors with a high market value.
Always remember that there are still few general home facilities out there that are doing pretty well.
Brands and businesses that stand out in this industry often have few things in their favor, and among these things are; best customer services, massive publicity strategies, etc.
In fact, being in the industry for a long time is an added advantage.
Nonetheless, some of the well known and leading group home brands in the United States of America are as follows;
- Emeritus Corporation;
- Sunrise Senior Living Inc;
- Atria Senior Living Group;
- Brookdale Senior Living Inc; etc.
Knowing all these brands and other leading group home brands in your community will give you a heads up to do more towards building a successful business enterprise.
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8. Choose a suitable location
Another important thing to consider before starting your proposed group home business is to research the place or location you intend to start the business from.
This will assist you greatly in finding out if there are any similar group home businesses in existence in the area and if the environment will be able to accommodate additional businesses like yours.
While selecting the appropriate location for the business, there are some factors you need to put into consideration and among them are; the city where the business will be placed zoning requirements, who your neighbors would be, etc.
9. Map out the home facility operations manual
The operations manual will be an addendum to the already sketched business plan.
It will describe all the daily core processes in the building such as the daily schedules, intake of new residents, storage and administration of medication, etc.
In your operation manual, endeavor to include safety precautions, first aid, emergency procedures, and a host of others there too.
These, among many others, are things that will be needed to keep the group home business up and running.
10. Group home business proper
Once you must have undertaken all the nine steps discussed above, then you are ready to roll into the business properly without any issue.
Immediately you realized that all the conditions necessary to set up a group home business have been meeting, there’s nothing left other than to open for business.
Create awareness, advertise, and market your presence to your target audience. Let them feel it that your group home facility is ready for rent and make sure that you give out discount to drive more customers.
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So basically, setting up a group home or writing a group home business plan requires one to adhere strictly to all rules of licensing paperwork, paperwork, etc. And it equally involves taking all the above precautions in other to establish a profitable enterprise.
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Home » Healthcare
A Sample Foster Care Group Home Business Plan Template
A group home is a community-based, long-term facility for specific types of residents (juveniles) who cannot live with their families due to behavioral issues. It is important to state that some group homes treat the mentally ill and the disabled.
Available statistics show that there are now about 7,629 group homes (orphanages and foster homes inclusive) in the United States as of 2022, an increase of 1 percent from 2020. The data also shows that California has 754 group homes ( orphanages and foster homes inclusive), Florida has 296 group homes (orphanages and foster homes inclusive) and New York has 284 group homes (orphanages and foster homes inclusive). These are the States with the most number of group homes in the United States of America.
Steps on How to Write a Foster Group Home Business Plan
Table of Content
1. Executive Summary
Company profile, swot analysis, marketing plan, sales and distribution plan, operational plan, financial plan, financial projection, growth plan.
Golden Generation® Group Home Facility, LLC will be based in Espanola, New Mexico. The organization will be committed to serving a small number of teens who will reside in a family-like setting with trained staff and effective programs.
We will house between 4 to 12 children per time in a family setting where they can make full use of community resources, including employment, health care, education, and recreational opportunities. Daniel Young is the founder and CEO of Golden Generation® Group Home Facility, LLC.
a. Our Services
Golden Generation® Group Home Facility, LLC will provide a wide range of services that revolves around providing therapy, 24-hour supervision, and support to troubled teens in a home-like setting. We will also provide psychiatric services to emotionally disturbed children.
b. Nature of the Business
Our Group Home facility will operate as a nonprofit organization. We will source finance from donor organizations, private individuals, and relevant government agencies.
c. The Industry
Golden Generation® Group Home Facility, LLC will operate under the orphanages and group homes industry.
d. Mission Statement
Our mission is to provide safe and secured group home facilities to meet the needs of children subjected to abuse and of course to also cater to children with emotional, intellectual, physical, medical, and/or behavioral issues
e. Vision Statement
Our vision of to become the number one group home facility in the whole of New Mexico.
f. Our Tagline (Slogan)
Golden Generation® Group Home Facility, LLC – The Family That Cares!
g. Legal Structure of the Business (LLC, C Corp, S Corp, LLP)
Golden Generation® Group Home Facility, LLC will be formed as a nonprofit corporation at the state level and we will apply for 501(c)(3) tax exemption at the federal level.
h. Our Organizational Structure
- Head of Group Home (President)
- House Manager (Administrator)
- Nurse’s Aides
- Teachers, Caregivers/Rehab Counselors
- Account Officer
- Front Desk Officer
- Security Guards
i. Ownership/Shareholder Structure and Board Members
- Daniel Young (Owner and Chairman/Chief Executive Officer) 51 Percent Shares
- David Young (Board Member) 14 Percent Shares
- Chow Lee (Board Member) 10 Percent Shares
- Pedro Philips (Board Member) 10 Percent Shares
- Monica Tyson (Board Member and Sectary) 10 Percent Shares.
a. Strength
- Ideal Location for group home facility
- Highly Experienced and Qualified Employees and Management
- Access to Pool of Donor Organizations
- Highly Secured and Clean Facility
- Highly structured programs are aimed at helping teens live comfortably as though they are with their families.
b. Weakness
- Budget Limitations
- Lack of full-fledged educational structure
- Inability to initially run and manage the organization without donations and grants
- Operating from a leased facility (restriction to fully modify the facility to suit our style and taste)
- Inability to retain our highly experienced and qualified employees longer than we want
c. Opportunities
- The demand from individuals aged 15 and under is expected to remain high because the majority of orphanages and group homes cater to children in this age bracket regardless of external circumstances
- Government funding for Medicare and Medicaid and private donations are anticipated to increase.
- The orphanages and group homes industry is projected to reverse its decline trend and increase in the coming years.
- We have a pool of finance from donor organizations, individuals, and relevant government agencies.
i. How Big is the Industry?
The orphanages and group homes industry is worth over $8 billion in the United States and there are about 9,623 licensed and registered correctional facilities and Group Homes with a workforce of about 124,872 scattered all across the United States.
ii. Is the Industry Growing or Declining?
Available statistics point to the fact that the industry is presently not growing and revenue for the industry has been adjusted from an increase to a decline of 8.1 percent in 2020 due to declining federal funding and donations. Since many operators are nonprofit, orphanages and group homes rely on federal funding and private donations. Since unemployment and consumer spending is anticipated to decline in 2020, leading to fewer donations, profit is set to decline.
Please note that in the coming year (2022), the revenue for the industry is anticipated to decline slightly, but as the economy recovers and COVID-19 (coronavirus) cases subsequently drop in line with the nationwide vaccination rollout, industry revenue will likely increase.
iii. What are the Future Trends in the Industry
The orphanages and group homes industry is changing, and players in the industry are improvising. No doubt, specialized treatment, technology, and social media will change the landscape of the industry going forward.
iv. Are There Existing Niches in the Industry? If YES, List them
Yes, there are niche ideas in the orphanages and group homes industry, and here are some of them;
- Residential treatment facilities.
- Group Homes and intermediate care facilities.
- Foster care and family support for children.
- Supportive community options for adults with disabilities.
- Group options for seniors with disabilities.
v. Can You Sell a Franchise of your Business in the Future?
Golden Generation® Group Home Facility, LLC has plans to sell franchises in the nearest future and we will target major cities with high children abandonment rates in the United States of America.
- Lack of support from stakeholders and the government
- Unfavorable government policy and regulations.
- Community resistance
- Liability problems
- Reduction in abusive homes and teenage pregnancies
i. Who are the Major Competitors?
- BrightSpring Health Service
- VQ National Ltd.
- Childhelp USA.
- Assurant Care Homes – Minnesota Group Homes
- Karen’s Board & Care
- Dean’s Group Home
- Los Angeles Ronald McDonald House
- The Brambles (Group Home for Adults with Disabilities)
- Verywell Mind (Group Homes for Troubled Teens)
ii. Is There a Franchise for Group Home? If YES, List at least 20 of them and their cost
No, there is no known group home franchise currently.
iii. Are There Policies, Regulations, or Zoning Laws Affecting Group Homes?
Yes, there are county or state regulations or zoning laws for Group Homes. The law in the United States states that before a non-medical home care facility such as a group home can commence operation, there should be at least six residents and at least one trained caregiver there 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. So also, a standard group home is expected to have a house manager, night manager, weekend activity coordinator, and 2 or more caregivers depending on the size of the facility.
a. Who is Your Target Audience?
i. Age Range
Our target market is for children and adolescents between the ages of 10 and 15 years
ii. Level of Educational
We don’t have any restriction on the level of education of those we will accommodate in our group home.
iii. Income Level
We don’t have any cap on the income level of those who we will accommodate in our group home. Besides, most people who are admitted to group homes have no source of income.
iv. Ethnicity
There is no restriction when it comes to the ethnicity of the people we will welcome into our group home.
v. Language
There is no restriction when it comes to the language spoken by the people we will welcome into our group home, but we will prefer people that speak English and Spanish.
vi. Geographical Location
Anybody from any geographical location will be welcomed in our group home.
vii. Lifestyle
Golden Generation® Group Home Facility, LLC will not restrict any child from accessing our facility and services based on their lifestyle, culture, or race.
b. Advertising and Promotion Strategies
- Host Themed Events That Catch Attention.
- Tap Into Text Marketing.
- Use FOMO to Run Photo Promotions.
- Share Your Events in Local Groups and Pages.
- Turn Your Social Media Channels Into a Resource
- Develop Your Business Directory Profiles
- Build Relationships With Other Nonprofits and related organizations in our Area
i. Traditional Marketing Strategies
- Marketing through Direct Mail.
- Print Media Marketing – Newspapers & Magazines.
- Broadcast Marketing -Television & Radio Channels.
- OOH Marketing – Public Transits like Buses and Trains, Billboards, Street shows, and Cabs.
- Leverage direct sales, direct mail (postcards, brochures, letters, fliers), tradeshows, print advertising (magazines, newspapers, coupon books, billboards), referral (also known as word-of-mouth marketing), radio, and television.
ii. Digital Marketing Strategies
- Social Media Marketing Platforms.
- Influencer Marketing.
- Email Marketing.
- Content Marketing.
- Search Engine Optimization (SEO) Marketing.
- Affiliate Marketing
- Mobile Marketing.
iii. Social Media Marketing Plan
- Start using chatbots.
- Create a personalized experience for our teens (housemates).
- Create an efficient content marketing strategy.
- Create a community for our donors and volunteers.
- Gear up our profiles with a diverse content strategy.
- Use brand advocates.
- Create profiles on the relevant social media channels.
- Run cross-channel campaigns.
c. Pricing Strategy
When working out our pricing strategy, Golden Generation® Group Home Facility, LLC will make sure it covers upkeep, medications, premium, economy or value, and full rehab package for each child.
Our pricing strategy will reflect;
- Cost-Based Pricing
- Value-Based Pricing
- Competition-Based Pricing.
a. Sales Channels
Our channel sales strategy will involve using partners and third parties—such as referral partners, affiliate partners, religious organizations, nonprofit organizations, and charity to help refer abusive and abandoned children to us.
Golden Generation® Group Home Facility, LLC will also leverage the 4 Ps of marketing which are place, price, product, and promotion. By carefully integrating these marketing strategies into a marketing mix, we can have a visible, in-demand service that is competitively priced.
b. Inventory Strategy
The fact that we will need educational materials, toiletries, medications, and foodstuffs means that Golden Generation® Group Home Facility, LLC will operate an inventory strategy that is based on a day-to-day methodology for ordering, maintaining, and processing items in our warehouse. We will develop our strategy with the same thoroughness and attention to detail as we would if we were creating an overall strategy for the business.
c. Payment Options for Customers
Here are the payment options that Golden Generation® Group Home Facility, LLC will make available to her donors and contributors;
- Payment via bank transfer
- Payment with cash
- Payment via credit cards
- Payment via online bank transfer
- Payment via check
- Payment via mobile money transfer
d. Return Policy, Incentives, and Guarantees
At Golden Generation® Group Home Facility, LLC, we offer services, and the nature of services we offer does not accommodate return policy, but we will guarantee our housemates that great transformation will occur in their lives if they follow our program.
e. Customer Support Strategy
Our customer support strategy will involve seeking customer feedback. This will help us provide excellent customer service to our housemates and donors, it will help us to first understand their needs, experiences, and pain points.
We will work with an effective CRM software to be able to achieve this. We will work towards strengthening our Customer Service Team and also Leverage Multi-Channel Servicing as part of our customer support strategy.
Our operational plan will cover capacity planning, location planning, layout planning, quality planning, and methods planning.
We plan to expand our revenue by 25 percent in the second year and the plan will include a marketing, sales, and operations component. The operations component of the plan would include attracting grants that will enable us boost our service offering.
a. What Happens During a Typical Day at a Group Home?
- The facility is open for the day
- The facility is cleaned and prepared for the day’s activities
- Housemates are welcomed and prepped for the day
- Housemates are provided with educational programs that will help them to properly integrate back into society, learn new skills and morals.
- House chores are carried out at different intervals during the day
- The facility is closed for the day and housemates go back to their rooms to get it arranged and then go to bed.
b. Production Process (If Any)
There is no production process when it comes to a group home.
c. Service Procedure (If Any)
There is no service procedure when it comes to a group home.
d. The Supply Chain
Golden Generation® Group Home Facility, LLC will rely on social workers, counselors, religious organizations, and government agencies to refer children to us. Also, we have been able to establish business relationships with wholesale supplies of educational materials, toiletries, medications, foodstuffs et al.
e. Sources of Income
Golden Generation® Group Home Facility, LLC will make money from;
- Contributions ffrom partners and donors
- Grants from government agencies and charity organizations
- Community support.
The cost to operate a group home varies and it will range from about $65,000 to over $100,000 annually.
a. Amount Needed to Start your Group Home?
Golden Generation® Group Home Facility, LLC would need an estimate of $550,000 to successfully set up our group home in the United States of America. Please note that this amount includes the salaries of all staff for the first month of operation.
b. What are the Cost Involved?
- Business Registration Fees – $750.
- Legal expenses for obtaining licenses and permits – $7,300.
- Marketing, Branding and Promotions – $5,000.
- Business Consultant Fee – $2,500.
- Insurance – $5,400.
- Rent/Lease – $200,000.
- Other start-up expenses including, satellite TV subscriptions, stationery ($500), and phone and utility deposits ($2,800).
- Operational Cost (salaries of employees, payments of bills et al) – $40,000
- start-up inventory – $15,000
- Store Equipment (cash register, security, ventilation, signage) – $4,750
- Furnishing and Equipping – $80,000
- Website: $600
- Miscellaneous: $2,000
c. Do You Need to Build a Facility? If YES, How Much Will It Cost?
Golden Generation® Group Home Facility, LLC will not build a new facility for our group home; we intend to start with a long-term lease and after 5 years, we will start the process of acquiring our own facility.
d. What are the Ongoing Expenses for Running a Group Home?
- Cost of stocking up supplies such as educational materials, medications, toiletries, beddings et al
- Cost of food supplies and ingredients
- Utility bills (gas, internet, phone bills, signage and sewage et al)
- Salaries of employees
e. What is the Average Salary of your Staff? List the Job Position and their proposed salary based on industry rate and your startup capital
- Head of Group Home (President) – $45,000 Per Annum
- House Manager (Administrator) – $36,034 Per Annum
- Nurse’s Aides – $29,660 Per Annum
- Teachers, Caregivers/Rehab Counselors – $32,878 Per Annum
- Fundraiser – $36,500 Per Annum and based on target
- Account Officer – $35,000 Per Annum
- Front Desk Officer – $28,000 Per Annum
- Cleaners – $22,000 Per Annum
- Security Guard – $22,000 Per Annum
f. How Do You Get Funding to Start a Group Home
- Raising money from personal savings and sale of personal stocks and properties
- Pitching our business idea and applying for business grants and seed funding from, government, and donor organizations
- Source for soft loans from our family members and our friends.
a. How Much Should You Charge for your Service?
At Golden Generation® Group Home Facility, LLC it is important to note that we will make our facility free of charge since we hope to attract enough grants and funds from donors.
b. Sales Forecast?
- First Fiscal Year (FY1): $350,000
- Second Fiscal Year (FY2): $475,000
- Third Fiscal Year (FY3): $550,000
c. Estimated Profit You Will Make a Year?
Golden Generation® Group Home Facility, LLC will operate as a nonprofit organization.
d. Profit Margin of a Group Home
Golden Generation® Group Home Facility, LLC is not designed to make profits hence we don’t have a profit margin for our services.
a. How do you intend to grow and expand?
Golden Generation® Group Home Facility, LLC will grow by first opening other outlets in key cities in the United States of America within the first five years, and then will start selling franchises from the sixth year.
b. Where do you intend to expand to and why? (Geographical locations)
Golden Generation® Group Home Facility, LLC plans to expand first to Chicago, IL, and then to Cleveland, OH, Detroit, MI, Atlanta, GA, and Baltimore, MD. The reason we intend to expand to these geographical locations is that available statistics show that the cities listed above have the highest juvenile delinquencies in the United States.
As a matter of fact, according to the Illinois Criminal Justice Authority’s most recent annual report, almost 300,000 youths live in poverty in Chicago’s Cook County. Over 26,000 crimes against youths have been reported and over 31,000 youths in Cook County have been arrested for criminal offenses.
The founder of Golden Generation® Group Home Facility, LLC plans to exit the business via merger and acquisition. We intend to merge with an international charity organization that has a world spread so that the organization can be placed under a trusted hand when the founder retires.
The goal of combining two or more charitable organizations that are into group homes is to try and achieve synergy – where the whole (the new organization) is greater than the sum of its parts (the former two separate entities).
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