• Participants range in age from 5-21
• Staff to child ratio is 1-1 or 1-2
• Older adolescents participate in activities based in the general community: miniature golf, bowling, shopping at the mall for the holidays, dinner at restaurants
• Typical siblings between the ages of 5-12 participate in activities at the same time (this allows siblings the opportunity to meet others in similar situations and learn that they are not alone)
• Each respite session consists of a highly structured program, presented in a positive, supportive environment allowing children to participate in a variety of activities
• Activities include: crafts, music therapy, group games, story time and making one's own snack,(playground time weather permitting in Lancaster and Reading)
• Positive and supportive interactions encourage children to gain a better sense of self
• Program is supervised by a professional social worker and special education teachers. Undergraduate students studying special education, social work, psychology and occupational therapy are able to gain first hand experience in working with children who have special needs
• Middle school and high school volunteers act as positive role models for the children
• A nurse is on staff at each site
• Respite sessions allow parents time to care for themselves knowing their children are safe, being supervised and their care is of a professional nature

Dates for 2007/2008 Respite:

• October 21, November 11, December 2, January 27, February 24, March 30, May 4
  and May 18 (there is no April session due to our fundraising event—“Volley for Kids” which will be on April 13, 2008)

Fees for 2007/2008 Respite:

• $250.00 for Lancaster and Reading sites.
• Ephrata site (fee is $50.00- this location is mostly funded through a variety of organizations that are sponsoring this program)
• $200.00: Older Adolescent: Lancaster and Reading Sites
• Limited scholarships available