Forte Residential is devoted to the concept of “family driven initiatives.” The individual being supported and their legal representative are placed in the company structure and assume significant decision making responsibilities about their own care or that of their loved one. Forte operates branch offices to provide motivated families with optimum quality residential based services. The founder of Forte Residential, Tom Van Meter, conceptualized this unique philosophy of “family driven initiatives” in the relatively “un-serviced” areas of rural Indiana.

Direct care employees are our most valuable resource. Recruitment is by referral and newspaper ads. Employment of family members is encouraged. Orientation to Forte’s history, philosophy, mission, and relationship to other organizations is part of the training process. CPR/First Aid, Incident Reporting procedures, documentation practices, medication assistance, and specific client-oriented training are also included.

Turnover rate is approximately 2% for all employees.

Criminal history checks are completed for all potential employees. Communication between workers and review of daily notes assure services are delivered appropriately. Additionally, federally mandated Electronic Visit Verification (EVV) verifies date, time, and location of services provided. Observation of supported person’s attitude and physical condition by individuals who work with them regularly helps assure their safety. Forte and outside case management meet regularly with the supported person to discuss their lives and quality of care they are receiving. Typically, the Family Advocate will be with the supported person every day. This individual is personally and intimately acquainted with the supported person and is very keenly aware of any shifts in emotional or physical aspects of the person’s life.

Person-Centered Planning is implemented, with the person receiving supports guiding their Individual Support Team (IST) in planning his/her supports. The “Family Advocate” is a role that is filled by the supported person, their legal guardian or closest family member. The Family Advocate is given significant decision making authority within the corporate structure without actually being employed by Forte.

The supported person or his/her “Family Advocate” has the opportunity to report any quirks in the flow of services. Forte facilitates the process by support in resolving issues, formulating strategic plans, providing additional training, and intervening if necessary.

Complete and submit an employment application and background check at https://www.forteresidential.org/employment-opportunities/