‘You can change somebody’s life doing this’: more respite workers needed

Family resource coordinator Stephanie Williams says there’s a huge need for them here.

“When you have a child or adult with disabilities, there’s all that extra stuff that you have to,” Williams said. “Whether it’s appointments, or getting out with other family members, it just empowers to be better parents. It’s a temporary relief from the emotional and extraordinary needs of caring for these children.”

In Anderson’s case, respite workers help take care of her kids so she can have a break or even catch up on sleep.

For the last seven years, Karina Rodriguez has given Anderson that downtime when she needs it. Rodriguez says respite work is much more involved, and more frequent than just babysitting.

“As a respite worker, I went to summer camp with them, I watched them when she needed me, I went over to school to help them out,” Rodriguez said.

Rodridguez loves what she does and is passionate about helping others.

“Watching the kids grow and overcome so many difficulties is such a great reward,” Rodridguez said.

To be a respite worker, Williams says the only requirement is to be 16 years old or over but some families might have additional needs.

“We always recommend a police and vulnerable sector background check, a child welfare check, first aid,” Williams said.

Respite work is a rewarding job and one Rodriguez recommends.

“You can change somebody’s life doing this,” Rodriguez said.

If you’re interested, you can contact Williams at Autism Alberta.

by Teagan Rasche

‘You can change somebody’s life doing this’: more respite workers needed

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