Since 1905, KenCrest has been dedicated to helping others thrive. We currently offer numerous residential options for people with IDD.
At KenCrest, we believe everyone with an intellectual or developmental disability deserves to live in a home of their choosing, integrated within their community. Our mission is to empower individuals to engage in meaningful employment and activities, fostering genuine connections and friendships within an inclusive community.
KenCrest operated several Community Living homes across Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Connecticut. These homes provide a person-centered environment where individuals with an intellectual or developmental disability can live with up to three roommates, promoting independence and a fulfilling life. Each home is located in safe, accessible neighborhoods, encouraging residents to build relationships outside the home and pursue their goals.
Residents benefit from a range of support services, including transportation, employment opportunities, and social activities through our Meaningful Day Community Engagement Program. For those with complex medical needs, we offer specialized Community Living homes staffed 24/7 by nurses and residential care workers, ensuring comprehensive health monitoring and support.
One individual KenCrest supports, Danny, is now living life on his own terms. After his roommates unexpectedly moved out last year, he faced the challenge of transitioning to new ones. Initially nervous about this significant change, Danny has since embraced the opportunity and is now thriving, sharing his experiences with friends.
KenCrest's Lifesharing program connects individuals with IDD to nurturing families across seven Pennsylvania counties. This program allows participants to blossom in a supportive family environment, fostering lasting relationships. Since its launch in 1985, Lifesharing has successfully matched over 140 individuals with compassionate families who meet their physical, medical, emotional, and social needs.
The matching process is key to Lifesharing’s success. It begins with an initial meeting to discuss the participant’s preferences. If a suitable family is identified, a meet-and-greet is arranged, followed by extended visits to ensure a good fit.
Cindy and Ron Ryder have been supporting individuals with IDD in Pennsylvania for over 30 years. Their journey began in 1976 when they met Dan at RiverCrest. That initial meeting set them on a lifelong path of helping others, and since then, they have welcomed two more individuals into their home, providing each person with a loving and supportive environment.
For those seeking greater independence, our Supported Independent Living program offers up to 30 hours of support each week. Participants learn to communicate their needs, advocate for themselves, and achieve their goals through the Charting the Life Course framework—a transformative approach designed to help individuals and families envision and achieve a fulfilling life. This program adapts to the evolving needs and desires of individuals, ensuring they can live meaningfully. By utilizing the Charting the Life Course framework, KenCrest supports individuals in developing a clear roadmap for their lives, ensuring they have the resources and guidance needed to bring their vision to life.
Participants can choose between two living arrangements: unlicensed residential housing owned or leased by KenCrest, or a home they own or rent with assistance from a licensed Pennsylvania realtor.
For the past nine years, Deanna has lived in a Community Living home with three other women. However, she longed for greater independence and the freedom to make her own rules. KenCrest introduced her to the Stepping Stones Transitional Housing program, which serves as an introduction to independent living. This program allows participants to learn and practice independent living skills in a safe environment before transitioning to Supported Independent Living. Deanna excelled in this program and eventually moved into her own apartment!
Transitional Homes for Medically Complex Children
KenCrest is a pioneer in providing specialized care for medically fragile and technology-dependent children. We operate two transitional care homes in Philadelphia, supporting children with various diagnoses, including tracheostomies, central lines, and neurological conditions.
These homes offer a warm, family-centered environment where children can thrive in a community-based setting. They engage in field trips, school programs, and daily activities while receiving specialized rehabilitative services. Our dedicated team, led by a medical director affiliated with A.I. DuPont Hospital, includes skilled nurses, physical therapists, and social workers, ensuring comprehensive care 24/7.
Leylanie Santiago was recently discharged from KenCrest’s Transitional Care Homes for medically complex children. After spending many years with KenCrest following her discharge from St. Christopher’s Hospital, Leylanie has become the star of the show. With her infectious smile and bubbly personality, she captures the hearts of everyone she meets—especially her nursing staff.
KenCrest is committed to providing diverse residential options that empower individuals with IDD to lead fulfilling lives. We create supportive environments tailored to each person's unique needs through our Community Living homes, Lifesharing program, Supported Independent Living, and specialized Transitional Homes. At KenCrest, we believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive in a community that values their contributions and fosters meaningful connections.