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Who We Are:

Our Mission

Respite Care, Inc. is a nonprofit organization in Larimer County that provides short-term, quality care for children with developmental disabilities and respite to their families, enabling them to enhance their quality of life.

Our Philosophy

We believe that a child with a disability is a child first and that his or her challenges are secondary. With this mission and philosophy in mind, Respite Care strives to create an interactive, stimulating, and safe environment that addresses the physical, emotional, social, and mental needs of each individual

child.

Our Values

Responsibility

Dedication and passion for providing exceptional care for children and their families, with creativity and courage.

Community

In collaboration with our community. encouraging engagement, inclusion, and achievement.

Relationships

Showing gratitude and empathy in order to strengthen bonds.

Competency & Knowledge

Seeking learning opportunities in order to provide skilled care, make well-informed decisions, and employ best practices.

What We’re Made Of:

Peace of Mind

We provide specialized care so that families may trust that their children are in competent, caring hands. Our child care specialists are trained to make Respite Care a safe “home away from home” for kids.

Enrichment

Children who attend Respite Care have access to milestone programs like Wilderness Camp, Summer Day Camp, and Prom.

Opportunity

Respite Care gives the gift of time to families. Time to work, pursue educational opportunities, run errands, or even just time to take a nap. At the same time, kids have the opportunities to participate in engaging activities with their peers.

OUR STORY

1981

Respite Care, Inc. was founded in April of 1981 by a group of parents who recognized the need for Respite Care in our community.

1982

After a year of planning and preparation, Respite Care opened its doors in Old Town Fort Collins. In November, Respite Care hosted the first ever Holiday Ball, a Christmas tree sale which raised approximately $2,000.

1990

Poudre School District started voluntarily providing transportation for kiddos to Respite Care after school, making it easier for families to work full schedules.

1995

Respite Care established volunteer partnerships with local schools and sports teams.

1997

We spent our first week at Wilderness Camp at Highlands Presbyterian Camp in Allenspark, CO.

2004

The doors at Respite Care’s new location on Lemay Avenue officially opened following a $2 Million capital campaign.

2007

Inspired by a passionate parent, Respite Care hosted the first annual prom, a partnership program with Colorado State University’s TGIF Club.

2013

With the help of Neenan Archistruction, the lower level of the building was finished, creating space for a teen

2014

Construction began on “Katie’s Garden,” a project started with seed money donated by the Wolff family. The therapeutic garden is a space where kids can enjoy the outdoors. We grow plenty of vegetables to use in the kitchen, too!

Today

Respite Care serves more than 165 children in Larimer County with developmental disabilities.