When caregivers need respite – for medical procedures or simple self-care – SOAR365 is there.

The Coleman brothers started coming to SOAR365 in elementary school. “They were just little guys,” says their mother, Ms. Lewis, with a smile.  

Now in their mid-20s, Noah and Terrence have graduated from Youth Services to Adult Day Support, and their family has used SOAR365’s weekend respite services many times. 

Recently, Ms. Lewis had to be hospitalized for a medical procedure. She didn’t know who would be able to care for her boys. Luckily, she was able to coordinate with SOAR365’s emergency respite services.  

“I don’t have family nearby or a local support system, so that was crucial,” says Ms. Lewis. 

“Having a social network is so important,” says Jaime McClure, Director of Day Support & Case Management Services. While all respite is essential, “emergency respite, in particular, is a lifesaver,” notes Jaime. 

Whether in an emergency or on a normal respite weekend, Ms. Lewis knows her boys are safe and comfortable at SOAR365.  

“They have a full day program there, and they keep them safe and engaged,” says Ms. Lewis. “They have their friends, and they love to go out. They’re the first to get in the vans!” 

Respite participants take day trips to restaurants, museums, libraries, parks, bowling alleys and more. Creative activities include art, music, drama and dancing. Participants can play sports or enjoy the outdoors through hiking, swimming, fishing and horseback riding.  

It’s clear that Respite has helped the Coleman brothers build confidence and independence. “They need to have that separation from me so they can grow,” says Ms. Lewis. 

Respite is critical for caregivers, too. Without it, they are at risk of adverse health outcomes associated with stress.  “The program allows me to take that break to get some things done and to do things outside of being Mommy,” Ms. Lewis explains.

Unfortunately, 80% of US families who need respite care say that they have a major problem finding it. As one of the only overnight, out-of-home respite providers in Central Virginia, we know families depend on us. That’s why we’re constantly working to make sure our services are best-in-class, with the help of donors and volunteers.