Alabama Respite is pleased to announce a grant award from the Alabama Council for Developmental Disabilities (ACDD). The grant will allow our Sharing the Care initiative to expand into four areas of Alabama: Mobile, Montgomery, Selma and Dothan.

ACDD invited submission of innovative proposals that exhibited well planned programs that are easily understood, have direction and broad based support, and are a high priority need that addresses providing services and supports to Alabamians with developmental disabilities and their families. Sharing the Care is a proven grassroots effort to expand Alabama Respite’s mission “to increase access to and availability of quality respite services for caregivers in Alabama.” The project brings together an advisory council of volunteers in localized areas who are interested in working together to expand the community’s respite resources.

Respite is the most frequently requested home- and community-based service, yet remains the least funded and is the only service that is offered exclusively for the caregiver. Respite, or taking a break from the daily responsibilities of caring for a loved one at home, can improve the life of the caregiver, care recipient and their families. Respite allows the caregiver a chance to take time to care for themselves and/or spend time with other family members or friends.

A Sharing the Care Project Coordinator will be hired to assist Alabama Respite with this endeavor. If you are interested in applying for the position or have an interest in serving on these local advisory councils, please contact Alabama Respite.

ACDD is an organization that advocates for the full inclusion of people with developmental disabilities in all facets of community life. The Council’s vision is that all Alabamians, regardless of disability, will live, learn, work and play in inclusive communities, where the worth of every person is valued, individual needs are supported and opportunities are barrier-free.

The Council’s Mission is to serve as an advocate for Alabama’s citizens with developmental disabilities and their families, to empower them with the knowledge and opportunity to make informed choices and exercise control over their own lives, and to create a climate for positive societal change to enable them to be respected, independent, productive, integrated members of society.