PT Weekend Relief
Houseparent FAQ's

What is the application process?

Since this is a live-in position, there is a very thorough approach to the application process. Candidate couples begin the process by completing online applications. (If you have any difficulties with the online application, please call (717) 520-2300 for assistance.) Applications are reviewed and those considered to be a potential match for the position are contacted for telephone interviews. If the telephone interview indicates a potential match, the candidate couple is invited for an interview and campus visit. Through the interview process, if candidates are found to be a potential match, they are asked to participate in an investigation. This process includes: validation of truthful statements in the employment application, financial history check, criminal history and child abuse checks, reference checks, and a visit to the couple's home by a private investigator. Medical checks also are required after offers are extended.

How will I be notified of my start date and time?

Human Resources will notify the Home Life Office once the clearance process has been entirely and successfully completed. The Home Life Office will contact you to schedule three consecutive weekend orientations at the student home. Once training is completed, assignment to a schedule and a student home is provided.

What is the work schedule?

You must report to the student home by 6:00 PM Friday evening and remain at the student home until 9:30 PM Sunday evening. The normal schedule is 18 weekends per year. However, you may be called and asked if you would like to work additional time. The choice is up to you.

Is the Part-Time Weekend Relief Houseparent position part of a bargaining unit?

Yes, the position is a union position. The bargaining unit, which represents Houseparents/Relief Houseparents, is Chocolate Workers-Local 464. You would pay union dues according to the amounts determined by the Union.

Are we permitted to bring our own children to the student home when we work on the weekends?

Up to two dependent children are permitted to accompany their parents for the weekend. It is strongly encouraged that your children participate in student home activities and eat meals with the student home family.

Will I be permitted to bring my pet to the student home?

Relief Houseparents are not permitted to bring pets to the student home.

What other parameters apply to this position?

No smoking, alcohol, or weapons permitted on campus. There also are limitations to guests.

Can I leave the student home during the weekend to go to another job?

No. When you accept the position of Relief Houseparent you are committing to the every other weekend work schedule reporting by 6:00 PM Friday evening and remaining until 9:30 PM Sunday.

Will the students in the home be of the same gender?

Yes, all student homes are single gender.

What types of duties and responsibilities would we be expected to perform during the weekends?

Relief Houseparents are responsible for meal preparation; transportation to and from scheduled activities; attending student activities and events (sporting events, performing art activities, shopping); actively interacting with students in the student home (reading, homework, playing board games, outdoor activities); supervision and assistance to students as they follow the implemented chore program and play time; provide problem solving strategies; attend chapel service on Sunday morning at 9:00 AM; greet parent/sponsors when they arrive at the student home to pick up and return their children from off-campus visits; and dispense medications; and other duties.

As a Part-Time Weekend Relief Houseparent couple, will we automatically be eligible for a Full-Time Houseparent position?

Serving in the role of Part-Time Weekend Relief Houseparent does not give preference or an automatic right to a full-time position. Part-Time Weekend Relief Houseparent may apply for Full-Time Houseparent positions if approved by their management.