Buddy Break is a free kids/respite program where children with special needs make new friends, play fun games, enjoy crafts, therapy dogs, stories, music activities, and more! Siblings have fun too! Meanwhile, their caregivers get a break from their ongoing care-giving responsibilities for three hours. Buddy Break is open to church members and non-church members with special needs kids. Each kid is paired one-on-one with a screened volunteer “Buddy” to participate in that day’s activities.
Who are special needs kids?
Special needs kids are kids with special needs, which include any physical, cognitive, medical or hidden disability, chronic or life-threatening illness, or those who are medically fragile. Village Bible Church provides Buddy Break for kids ages: 2-16 years old, and their siblings: 4 years old to 5th grade.
Who are Buddies?
Buddies are friends of special needs kids. No previous experience with special needs kids is necessary to be a Buddy, just a loving heart, open arms, and a willingness to learn. You must be at least 14 years of age and you will be trained through a two-hour Buddy Training 101 class. You also agree to have a background check run on your information.
How do I sign up my special needs child?
Complete the special needs Family Information Form. If you have any siblings that you’d like to have attend Buddy Break, fill out the Sibling form too.
How can I become a Buddy?
- Go to www.BuddyBreak.org and complete the secure online Buddy Form.
- Contact us to schedule a visit or reserve your space at a mandatory Buddy Training 101 class.
- Make a reservation to be a buddy at an upcoming Buddy Break by contacting Darlyne Dwyer.
Contact us to reserve your space at a required special needs orientation. This allows us to meet you and your children and gives you a chance to see Buddy Break before you begin participating. Prior to orientation, you will need to fill out several forms forms. We will have a notary at orientation to notarize them for you. You’ll then need to make a reservation for each month that you want to attend Buddy Break. Space is limited and pre-registration is required, so register early!
Contact Information
Darlyne Dwyer, Buddy Break Coordinator
darlyne.dwyer@villagebible.org | 630-466-7198