New respite program to support special needs caregivers

Aldersgate Special Needs Ministry is starting a drop-in style respite program for adults with developmental disabilities.

Called Aldersgate in the Morning, it will be hosted by Grace United Methodist Church, Columbia. The program will provide caregivers a short-term break.

Respite helps caregivers relax, relieve stress and maintain their own physical and emotional well-being.

AIM will operate on Tuesday and Thursday mornings. Staff and trained volunteers will provide supervision and meaningful activities for the participants. If AIM is successful, ASNM will consider expanding the service to other locations.

Program Director Ebony Dawson-Mack will oversee the program opening in early 2022. Dawson-Mack holds several degrees including a Bachelor of Arts in English and a master’s in counseling. She has worked in the special needs industry since 1999.

“I look forward to starting the respite program at Aldersgate Special Needs Ministry,” Dawson-Mack said. “As a longtime advocate for people with disabilities and special needs, I truly believe in the person-centered approach and focusing on each person’s abilities.”

To learn more about AIM, email [email protected].