Ind. Code § 12-30-3-20

Sec. 20. Able-bodied residents or ambulatory patients within their physical and mental capacity may be employed on a voluntary basis by the county home superintendent with the approval of the county home board, on the terms for board, maintenance, and compensation that are mutually acceptable. Upon being employed under this section, a resident or patient shall be given the privileges, duties, and status of a county home employee.