3 minute read
Lil’ Friends Serves Unique Respite Care Needs in Broomfield with Expanding Programs to Impact More Children
Lil’ Friends Serves Unique Respite Care Needs in Broomfield with Expanding Programs to Impact More Children
By Missy Ruzicka
Caregivers are some of the most selfless people in our community. They give 100% of themselves to care for a loved one who depends solely on their care. Parents of kids with developmental disabilities are some of the hardest working caregivers around for their job is 24/7. What better way to give support to those who work tirelessly for others then to step in and give them a break.
Respite care is a special name for a short-term break for just such caregivers. Even the most dedicated parents need a break from time to time and Lil’ Friends is here to give them the relief they need.
We are so lucky here in Broomfield to have two friends, Shelly Cox and Ange Shores, who saw the need in our community and had unique abilities to fill that very need. These ladies saw a way to make a difference in Broomfield by caring for and supporting both children and caregivers. Lil’ Friends is a place where kids ages 3-18 with identified physical and developmental needs can play, have fun, and socialize while getting therapies from people who are specially trained to their individual needs.
Lil’ Friends has partnered with the wonderful Bal Swan Children’s Center for the use of their large gym and warm water pool on Saturdays. They offer two sessions; morning and afternoon for respite care along with physical and occupational therapy treatments, all while the kids are playing with their friends in a trusted and safe environment. Lil’ Friends also offers limited in-home respite care when indicated through a screening process.
While Lil’ Friends is in the business of giving, they also have some needs. They are working with the 2 Angels Foundation to get much needed adaptive bikes and equipment for their kids to use, while also raising scholarship funds for families who don’t have insurance to cover respite care.
Along with Bal Swan, Lil’ Friends also partners with Friends of Broomfield to help bridge the gap that exists between kids going to Bal Swan and joining Friends of Broomfield when they are older. This summer Friends and Lil’ Friends will team up for a Summer Camp, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays, with adventures including trips to the Bay Aquatic Park, Chippers Bowling Lanes, days at our beautiful Broomfield parks, and even getting to try out some local restaurants.
Lil’ Friends knows how important it is to have educated, specialty trained staff on hand to not only work with kids but build special relationships. They have partnered with Regis University’s Health and Exercise program to get the best interns, and they have been known to keep the really good ones who love their jobs. Just a glance at some of the talented people working with these kids and you know your child is in a safe loving environment. They have certified Occupational Therapists, Certified Nurses Aides, Registered Nurses, Physical Therapists, Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants, and Speech Pathologists who all share the love of working with children and have found a place at Lil’ Friends, where kids grow together.
