My Nonprofit Reviews

Our family has been part of Pause for six years. I will never forget the first time we dropped off our kids for a Parents’ Night Out event. I had NEVER left them with anyone besides their grandparents and I was terrified. Our son had severe separation anxiety and he was crying so hard. The Executive Director took him in her arms and rocked him, and I knew we had found somewhere we fit. During those three hours, the team sent me pictures of my son having fun and I was able to relax knowing my kids were in good hands. As a special needs mom, I know firsthand the isolation, anxiety and grief that our Pause families process daily. I also know how rare it is to find somewhere and someone you fully trust to watch your kids. And Pause is so much more than that! It’s not just babysitting; they are pouring into our kids love, understanding and acceptance – not to mention teaching them life skills and providing a community of peers. One of my favorite events is the sib shop that is part of Thrive Night. Our older son often struggles with what it means to be a special needs sibling. This night gives him the opportunity to engage and connect with a unique community of peers who understand what he feels and experiences. One of the things that makes Pause so special is that EVERY member of the family has a place. There is support and acceptance for the children with special needs, connection and fun for the siblings, respite for the parents, and community for the entire family.