Ambassador Families

This year, the participants in Easterseals Respite Programs are serving as our Ambassador Families! Respite for families is proven to be an effective service to support and prevent caregiver burnout, and to foster a healthier quality of life. Easterseals Respite Services provide critical support to wounded warriors, veterans, active-duty military, first responders, and civilian families, and families of children with and without disabilities.

Find out more about Easterseals DC MD VA’s Respite services and caregiver support, including ways that you can volunteer.

Here’s what some families are saying about our respite programs:

“I cannot thank you enough! These respite events have been the highlight for my five children the past four months…. It has not been an easy few years and these events provide them with something to look forward to. As you know, I am now a single mother with three children with disabilities, one with severe mental health issues, and one typically developing child. I am also going back to school to get a college degree…. These events allow me to finish school assignments or take a much needed break. … I don’t know where I would be without Easterseals.” - S.C.

“These events have been so much fun for my 6-year-old daughter, but most importantly, have helped her flourish! She has learning disabilities, including ADD/ADHD, low muscle tone, conversion insufficiency, and low blood sugar. School is a challenge and at these events she can truly be a kid, bond with her volunteer, meet children in her situation, and have a blast! She is so excited on respite days. She always loves to show us all the crafts and the fun things they do! … This has also helped her self-esteem and confidence to be around such loving, caring, and positive people.” - J.M.

“My two children without disabilities love coming. This allows me 1:1 time with my son who has severe autism. I wanted a place where my two kids without disabilities could go and not worry about their brother. They needed a place where they can relax, have fun, and not keep looking to make sure their older brother was ok. …  You all have been an amazing help and resource for my family during a critical time.” - J.G.

“This is the first time my child with a disability and his sister could join an event [together]! I can’t think of the last time we were invited to an event like this, where both kids could come and we got a break! THANK YOU!!” - K.C.

“My kids call respite at Easterseals the best daycare ever! It has helped my one twin daughter come out of her shell. My older son loves it and can’t stop smiling! When we leave, we have tears – but good tears – because they had so much fun they don’t want to leave.” - K.M.