We watch children with disabilities on Thursday and Friday nights so their parents can get a break. To see our calendar of the nights we provide this service, please visit our web page http://www.fridayskids.org/signup.htm

We strengthen families and communities by giving parents and caregivers some free time to regroup, for couples to focus on each other, and for parents to spend some one-on-one time with their other children.

Description:
Friday's Kids Respite (FKR) is a respite (relief) service for families of children with disabilities. We serve children and youth ages 0-22 years old who are medically fragile, chronically ill, or have a special need in some way that requires the parents or caregivers to give 24-hour care, seven days a week.

We watch the children at a beautiful child-care facility where we use three large playrooms with large connecting windows. There are approximately 12 children each night. Each child is paired with a volunteer who is 16 years or older. A nurse is in charge and along with a coordinator, who supervise the children and their volunteers. The nurse takes care of all the children’s personal (restroom) needs and any medical needs that may arise.

The nightly schedule includes free play the first hour, then structured activities, snack and at the end of the evening, a movie.

History:
Friday's Kids started serving families January of 2002. This organization was created by therapists, parents, and government employees who know of the crucial need for this type of service.

***25 Volunteer Maximum per Respite Night***

Contact person: Toshiko Dignam, Executive Director, (801) 494-9837, (email)
Office fax number: (801) 221-0649

Languages Spoken: English

Address:

475 West 260 North Orem, UT 84057 This location is handicap accessible (See a map)

Web Site: http://www.fridayskids.org/

Directions:

To view a map, please go to http://www.fridayskids.org/directions.htm.

Miscellaneous Information

Services
	Respite Care

Overall Experience   
What a wonderful way to spend a Friday night!

I would definitely recommend this volunteer opportunity to anybody who wants to experience the happiness that comes from helping a child and making a difference. What a wonderful experience. It’s amazing how your own seems to be blessed so much when you take a little time to give of yourself to others. Friday Kids Respite provides opportunities to use creativity and energy in the service of such precious children who have challenges in their lives. The facility is spacious, clean and filled with so many great resources for activities. The people there were very friendly and one of the best parts for me was being able to see first hand love being shown toward the children by the other volunteers. Some were there for their first time, other volunteers had been there for months, maybe even years, but they all had one thing in common: They all seemed to have a special love for the children there. I know that it must make a huge difference for the parents who are given support and a break on Friday nights. It’s enjoyable for the children as they given one on one attention and engaged in fun activities. I think more than anything though it’s an opportunity for those volunteer to expand their hearts and to experience the happiness that comes from bringing joy to those who may be suffering in some way. This is definitely something I plan to participate in whenever possible. The children are really just so special with such unique personalities. They are absolutely precious and very playful! ;) I absolutely feel it is not only a worthwhile program for the parents and children but for anybody who is able to participate. posted by ashleyp2 on June 27, 2006

Overall Experience   
The parents are so grateful for this service!

Friday's Kids Respite watches children with disabilities on Friday nights so their parents can take a break. I volunteered to set up this program, and it has been a truly rewarding experience to provide a safe place where chldren with disabilities can play while their parents take a well-deserved break! I have gained an appreciation for the parents and all that they do for their children. I love the children, and have come to know them as individuals with many abilities. And lastly, the volunteers are awesome. This program would not exist without the caring volunteers who want to make a difference in someone's life posted by Diane McNeill on June 26, 2006