Oswego YMCA "Friends for Life" Respite Program

Respite Philosophy

The "Friends for Life" Respite Program is aimed at serving people with disabilities that reside in Oswego County with their families. This programs was developed to give relief to parents while providing opportunities for inclusion and integration for participants at the Oswego YMCA and in the community.

The Respite Program activities provide independence to the participants with structured programming that also promotes physical fitness. Participants are exposed to mainstream events that aid in the development of their confidence and social skills. Respite is offered year round seven days a week. Transportation is provided for most services.

Communication

For the growth and successful development of the Respite Program, the input of the participants and their families is imperative. We attribute the progress of our Recreational Respite Program to the participants, their families, and the "Friends for Life" Respite staff. All of which are an integral part of the functioning and success of our program.

Who is Eligible for our Program?

• The Respite Program serves people ages 6-64 years who are developmentally delayed before the age of 22, that reside in Oswego County with their family members.
• An eligibility assessment and medial documentation are required. See Referral Process below.
• We are unable to serve ADHD, LD, ED, medically fragile or violent individuals and those who are aided by Foster Care, Family Care, Group Homes, or other Assisted Housing.

Referral Process

The Respite Program must receive referrals that include the following documentation regarding the diagnosis of disability.

• Individualized service plan
• Oswego YMCA participant medical form
• Oswego YMCA emergency authorized form
• Oswego YMCA consent/permission form

Activities

Oswego YMCA "Friends for Life" Respite Program strives to build character development, which inspires caring, honesty, responsibility, and respect. Respite assists in the development of a positive self-image, self-esteem, and self-confidence. Promoting healthy living by offering choices of various nutrition activities and recreational programs that emphasize physical fitness are one of the many goals of Respite.

The Oswego YMCA "Friends for Life" Respite Program promises to provide professional and friendly staff ensuring quality recreational programming and to offer a fun, caring, and comfortable environment which supports integration and socialization where lifelong friendships can be made.

Respite Teen and Adult Activities

• Community Based activities & events
• Movie and bowling trips
• Trips to the zoo
• Recreational swim, adult swim, aqua aerobics
• Trips to the park
• Outreach special events
• Picnics
• Summer day program
• Basketball and kickball games
• Fitness programs

Respite Youth and Pre-teen activities (Ages 6- 12 years)

• Community based activities and events
• School's Out
• The Y @ Summer Camp
• YMCA swim lessons
• Recreational trips
• Recreational swim
• Movie trips
• Youth bowling
• Outreach special events
• Summer activities

Contact

To receive further information about the Oswego County "Friends for Life" Respite Program please contact:

Colton Dryden, Respite Director

Oswego YMCA "Friends for Life" Respite Program

265 West First steet

Oswego, NY 13126

(315)343-4321

cdryden@oswegoymca.org