Weekend Respite: Weekends Built Around What People Enjoy 

Every Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., adults with developmental disabilities spend the day at our Brookville campus doing what they enjoy most. Some play soccer or basketball, some sing karaoke and others choose to spend their time on arts and crafts or simply watching a favorite movie. When the weather is good, there are walks around the 17-acre campus and visits to Wheatley Farms & Arts Center right next door.  

Two people supported by Citizens near the goats at Wheatley Farms

“This is more focused on them choosing what they want to do.” said Aaron Arasmo, Family Support Services Administrator. “People want to do their own thing and have time to flourish. They are supported to be themselves and do what they like to do, when they want to do it, and how they like to do it.”  

Weekend Respite also gives families time to focus on other parts of their lives. A parent or caregiver might use the day to look after their own health, spend time with a spouse or other children or catch up on errands, with  peace of mind knowing their loved one is safe and happy and enjoying what is important to them.  

The Weekend Respite team creates a family-like atmosphere and enjoys hosting parties, like the end-of-summer celebration and holiday party. 

Weekend Respite is also a place to build friendships. For many who attend, it’s a chance to catch up with friends they see on the weekend and meet new people along the way.  

If you would like to learn more about Weekend Respite, visit www.citizens-inc.org/respiteservices/ 

Seven people supported by Citizens at Wheatley Farms for weekend respite