Parenting is never easy, and it can be particular challenging when your child has a disability. We provide trainings on a variety of topics, including behavior, special education law, future planning, and much more. These training sessions are not only an opportunity to gain knowledge, but also a chance for families whose children have developmental disabilities to connect and share their experiences and knowledge with one another. We also hold events like Family Fun Night and other activities at locations throughout Winnebago,  Boone, and Ogle counties.

Please check back here and in our events section for upcoming educational trainings and activities.

Our Respite Program offers children with disabilities a supervised and safe environment so that families can have an opportunity to take a break from their caregiving responsibilities. Our staff—who will spend time with each child—are highly trained to meet the needs of each individual. 

There are spots available for up to five families at this time, which we serve on a first-come, first-serve basis. There are NO income guideline.

To be eligible for our Respite Program, the child must meet these criteria:

• Age: Birth to 21

• Must have a medical diagnosis of a developmental disability

• Denial from DHS-DORS and cannot be used in conjunction with any other respite program

• Must live in Winnebago, Boone, or Ogle counties

Our consultation services are here to help alleviate some the everyday stresses of parenting a child with a disability. Consultants will provide problem-solving strategies in a case-by-case situation to identify and meet each family’s needs. We strive for meaningful solutions to family challenges, resulting in processes that can be applied for future use. Because we work with other local organizations, we can also provide information about other community resources available and offer guidance on how to access them. When needed,. our team can assist families in completing paperwork and attend meetings to offer expertise. 

Creating a strong community and support system is important to us. This space provides an opportunity for parents to connect with other parents who have similar needs and experiences. We will take every chance to nurture family and community bonds. Within families, we offer quality time to parents and siblings through family activities.

One of the most important ways to help your child is to take care of yourself. This means eating, sleeping, and sometimes, treating yourself! Every year, we host a special weekend retreat for mothers, grandmothers, aunts, or anyone who is raising or helping to raise a child with a developmental disability. Our Caregiver Retreat is not only a great opportunity to build a support network with other caregivers, but also an opportunity to learn methods of self-care and have some fun in a peaceful environment. The weekend includes a variety of indoor and outdoor activities.

Please check back for our next Retreat date and information.

Just as our valued caregivers deserve a community and time for themselves, the siblings of children with developmental disabilities require attention too. Sibling Support is a chance for the siblings of children with disabilities to socialize with other siblings and learn from one another through fun activities. We provide support for the child with a developmental disability, in that time, so that parents have an opportunity to interact with their children without disabilities.

We also host an annual sibling event and can provide resources to help siblings.

We are grateful to our funders and partners, which include United Way and the Ogle County Mental Health Board.

Do you need quick access to reliable information? United Way 211 is an easy to remember telephone number that connects callers with free information and referrals for community services within Ogle and Winnebago counties.

• 211 is a free, confidential service.

• Your call is answered by a trained professional.

• One call connects you with the appropriate resources you need in your community.

• It is efficient, fast and easy to use.

• No more wrong numbers or wasted time trying to find the right resource.

• It is always there for you—24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

• Translation services available in many languages.

For more information or to connect with our services, please call 815.965.5069.

Address:

730 N. Church Street
Rockford, IL 61103