History

Early Beginnings

• Our program has remained simple and direct. We support parents by taking care of their children. Our program is based on the belief that well timed breaks from the difficult job of parenting can help keep families together.
• The Respite Center began in 1979 when a group of day care centers received a federal grant to start an emergency/crisis/respite program for the families they served. With the City of Madison’s help we purchased a modest house where we cared for children and supported their parents.
• Throughout the 1980's we continued to grow. Over 90% of our funding was local. As the funding increased, our program developed. In 1989 we co-located with three other agencies whose philosophies about families are similar to ours, yet whose programs offer families different kinds of support.

The 1990's

• The 1990's brought a deepening of our understanding of trauma. The 1990's also saw a deepening in the community’s understanding of the need for our service.

The New Century

• During the early years of the new millennium, as part of Family Centers, we were fortunate to rebuild. Following a successful capital campaign, we now have a beautiful new facility that will serve families well into the present century.
• For almost thirty years we have been an organization known for our ability to make a difference in the lives of families.