Circle of Life workers are the owners of the business.
Each employee is a member and active participant in the COL Caregiver Cooperative.
- Members pay a one time fee of $300 (most of which can be paid through payrolldeductions.)
- COL business decisions are made by a Board of Directors elected by and composedof COL members.
- Business profits will be returned to workers as dividends, as determined by theBoard.
- There is a three month probationary period for membership; memberships areapproved by the board.
Circle of Lifecaregivers have an investment in the success of our company, and for that reason are motivated to provide magnificent care to our clients. Good communication skills and a willingness to learn about and work within a cooperative business model are essential in Circle of Life members/employees.
Qualifications for employment as a caregiver for COL include:
1. At least eighteen (18) years of age.
2. Caregiver experience and/or basic caregiver training
3. Acceptable references
4. Approval after probation period by Caregiver Coordinator and Board
Circle of Life Co-op:
- pays caregivers as follows:
$11/hr for 3 or more hours
$13.75/hr for 2-3 hour shift
$19.25/hr for 1 hour shift - screens all applicants for experience, training, and communication skills.
- conducts criminal background checks on all employees as required by WA State.
- is the employer of the caregivers and handles payroll associated with caregiver compensation.
- has liability insurance and bonding for the business and all members.
- arranges for trainings as required by state law and as determined by COL board and members
- maintains an office to handle client referrals, intakes, and assessments.
- Caregiver Coordinator is available for consultation by phone 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- office staff conducts active marketing and promotion of the business in the community.
- does not have health insurance for COL employees at this time.
- pays 100% of Labor and Industries industrial insurance.
As owners of the business, Circle of Life workers have responsibilities to:
- Promote good client and worker morale
- Assist with outreach to new employees and clients
- Stay informed about the growth of the business
- Participate in positive communication concerning the business
- Be actively involved in designing training programs for workers
- Attend and participate in membership or committee meetings
Circle of Life honors and respects the life experiences, dignity, and independence of elders in our community. Circle of Life respects and honors the labor, skills, and experience of our workers and provides them with peer support, training, and decision-making power in the business.