Respite Services

“Some of the most interesting times that you spend with participants aren’t the big events. It’s times when you’re having a meal together, or playing a board game or watching a movie. The quality time shared is even more important than going out.”

–Respite volunteer

In the counties CAP serves, the rate of persons with disabilities can be as high as 37%. The impact on the individual and their family is further compounded if they live in poverty and in a rural area where services are few or nonexistent. CAP offers a wide array of services through programs that support the specific needs of children and adults with disabilities and their families. Respite Services offers center-based options for persons with disabilities.

CAP’s Rainbow Respite Center provides respite to families and caregivers by offering week-long residential stays for persons with disabilities. CAP’s emphasis is to promote healthier family situations by encouraging periodic respite, allowing time for personal renewal, rest and relaxation.

By providing a safe, comfortable environment, leading by example and promoting self-advocacy, volunteers encourage those who stay at the center to be independent and improve their mental, social, emotional, spiritual and physical well-being. In collaboration with other agencies and CAP programs, Rainbow Respite offers participants and their family members the most comprehensive services and choices to help foster educational, recreational and spiritual opportunities.

Respite Services volunteers perform a variety of functions based on the needs of the participants, and may assist with clothing changes, personal care and meal preparation. Volunteers also assist in planning and supervising social activities such as bowling outings and dances (like the sock hop pictured to the right).