Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

From Families

Q: How can I make a referral to a PLACES program?
A: Please review these pages on our website:

Q: Why should I consider making a referral to a PLACES program?
A:
PLACES has a client-centered focus, provides enhanced services in all of its programs, and is willing to accept individuals with the most challenging mental health diagnoses who are often the most difficult to serve. Our high quality of care, level of staff supervision and support, and collaborations with other service providers are well-known throughout the region.

Q: I feel I can no longer care adequately for a family member who is mentally ill. What should I do?
A:
Contact the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Montgomery County at 937-299-3667. NAMI, the nation's largest grassroots mental health organization, was established in 1979 for mental health clients and their families as a self-help organization dedicated to providing support, education and advocacy to anyone affected by persistent, biologically based brain disorders or mental illnesses. NAMI Montgomery County, a chapter of NAMI Ohio, can help family members understand the illnesses and learn how others have coped. Also see our list of Resources on Mental Health.

Q: If my adult son becomes affiliated with PLACES, can I still stay involved in his life?
A:
Absolutely. In fact, PLACES welcomes the involvement of family members in the lives of residents, clients and tenants. We believe involvement with family and friends is critical to recovery. Over time, the staff at PLACES has learned that individuals who are involved with their families are happier and more stable than those who have become estranged. For Our Families has more information about how to help your family member at PLACES.

Q: How much will it cost me for PLACES to help my family member?
A:
Typically nothing. Families of residents in the Adult Care Facilities program are not responsible for fees unless a guardianship or representative payeeship is involved. PLACES assists individuals who either have no income or who receive Supplemental Security Income or Social Security Disability Income; financial arrangements are made between the resident and PLACES. Fees for tenants in the Housing First Program, who have their rent subsidized, are based on the lease agreement between PLACES and the tenant.

From Donors

Q: How can I make a donation to PLACES?
A:
Please visit our Donate page for complete instructions.

Q: Are donations to PLACES tax-deductible?
A:
PLACES is a 501(c)(3) organization. Contributions are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law.

Q: If I make an individual donation to PLACES, how will the money be used?
A:
PLACES may use individual contributions for:

  • Program development/project support
  • General purpose/operations
  • The PLACES endowment fund, the Heart and Home Legacy Society
  • The annual Holiday Party

Q: Does PLACES have a strategic plan?
A:
Yes. The most recent five-year strategic plan was released on July 1, 2011. The plan is updated regularly.

Q: How stable is the leadership at PLACES?
A:
The leadership at PLACES is strong. Roy Craig has been the executive director since 1998. Collectively, the executive staff has nine decades of experience working at PLACES.

From Potential Employees and Volunteers

Q: Do you hire part-time staff?
A:
Yes. Part-time positions are available in the Housing First Program, and substitute employees may be hired for certain positions in both the Residential Adult Care Facilities program and the Housing First Program. Please visit our Careers page to check out our current openings, and then apply online.

Q: Is there room for career advancement at PLACES?
A:
Yes. Some employees have held two, three or more positions during their tenure at PLACES. Your supervisor can help you chart a career path at PLACES.

Q: Are you looking for volunteers?
A:
Unfortunately, because of the nature of our work, which requires specialized training to care for individuals with mental illness, PLACES is not seeking volunteers currently.