Faces, Places & Voices Of PVREA: Respite Care

A New Chapter In A New Home

Spring, often a symbol of new beginnings, marks an exciting chapter for one local nonprofit.

This March, Respite Care will move into a new facility powered by Poudre Valley REA. We are proud to welcome them into our cooperative family and support their journey to expand their space where compassion and care can continue to grow.

For more than 40 years, Respite Care has provided specialized care for children with developmental disabilities while giving their families the time, stability, and relief they need.

Caring for a child with disabilities is a constant, demanding responsibility, and many families struggle to find reliable, specialized childcare. Respite Care helps ease that burden by providing a safe, supportive environment where children’s individual strengths and needs are embraced, allowing parents time to work, rest, and care for their entire family.

“Respite Care is a happy place,” Kristi Briles, Executive Director at Respite Care, said. “Friendships are here, unconditional love, inclusiveness, and lots of big wins for the kids. That may be taking their first steps, speaking their first words, or eating whole foods.”

Families are often surprised by the breadth of what Respite Care offers. In addition to daily care, children participate in wilderness camp, community outings, and can receive care overnight and during the weekend, opportunities not available in similar care systems.

Respite Care’s Development Director Kaitlin Bjork praised the team of 80 staff members and up to 900 volunteers who provide a high level of specialized care that is not often easy or glamorous.

“Our staff and volunteers are full of compassion, empathy, fun, and have the heart to do what we do,” Kaitlin Bjork said.

Their new building is thoughtfully designed to prioritize accessibility and the future of care. Highlights include expanded classrooms, playgrounds, activity spaces, and overnight rooms. With this growth, Respite Care will increase their capacity, from 70 children to 160 at one time.

“Not only will we be able to provide a space for additional families, but we’re also hopeful that we will increase our staff and expand our programs including the number of overnights and weekend care,” Kristi explained.

Demand for expert care continues to grow in our region, and the new building positions Respite Care to meet the needs of more families.

“We couldn’t do what we do without support from our community,” Kristi said.

Every donation, volunteer hour, or act of kindness goes directly back to the kids. While the true cost of Respite Care is about $38/hour, the rate families are charged is determined through a sliding fee scale that results in an average rate of only $6/hour.

As Respite Care turns the page to a new chapter in a new home, one thing remains unchanged: their commitment to creating a place where every child belongs, and every family is supported.

Learn more about Respite Care at https://respitecareinc.org/