Dear parent(s),

Let me just say on behalf of our very enthusiastic and hard-working team, that we are very excited to serve you and your family through Breathe. Our team is very passionate about the special needs community and has put a lot of time and energy into this ministry and look forward to meeting you. Our goal is very simple- we know how all-consuming the requirements of a special needs child can be and we want to exhibit the love of God by giving you a chance to breathe by offering respite care once a month.

Now I know that for many, the thought of leaving your special needs child (and any typical siblings) with veritable strangers can cause some anxiety. I know this all too well, being the parent of a child with autism. Perhaps I can offer some help for the apprehension that might go with such a venture.

• All of our volunteers will be background checked.
• All of our volunteers will go through training to equip them to meet the needs of your special needs child.
• We will have medical professionals on-site the entire time.
• We will have security at all access ways in the building.
• All special needs children will have a one-on-one aid.
• Registration will ensure that you (and only you) can pick up your child at the end of the evening.
• Many on our team work directly with special needs children in public schools, as occupational and speech therapists or as parent advocates.
• The registration will include a place where you can list any particulars that will help us aid your child.
• Many parents use a gluten-free/casein-free diet, so to ensure that there are no dietary transgressions, all snacks on site will be consistent with the GF/CF diet.

Well, there is a starter list! But, I can also tell you from past experience (having been involved in this kind of venture in Dayton, OH), that your child will, more than likely, have a GREAT time even while you catch your breath for a couple of hours. It will be our joy to serve you and your child(ren) at Breathe! We look forward to seeing you there!!

In Christ,

Dave Lynden