This free, self-paced online workshop series gives you the tools and knowledge to start a respite program in your community. Whether you’re interested in a small, volunteer-run effort or a larger staffed organization, BRYC will guide you through the process.
You’ll explore a variety of topics through assigned readings, videos, external resources, and a cumulative assignment. Respite programs can vary widely, from occasional events to daily services, and may be led by volunteers or employees.
To receive a certificate of completion, you must:
Develop a program plan as part of the final assignment, and
Schedule a meeting with Val Madsen, the contracted instructor, to review your plan and get support.
Note: This workshop is intended for Wisconsin residents.
Questions? Contact [email protected]
Example programs
Overview & Completion Steps
The Bringing Respite to Your Community (BRYC) Workshop is organized into multiple workshop topics, but you may complete it at your own pace. While the format is flexible, we strongly recommend taking the time to watch the videos, complete the readings, and finish each assignment before moving on to the next topic.
Workshop 1: Needs Assessment, Program Design, and Business Structure
Workshop 2: Program Design & Licensing, Funding & Budgeting (Intro)
Workshop 3: Insurance, Legal Information, Accounting, and Tax Considerations
Workshop 4: Policies & Procedures, Documentation, Marketing, Activity Design, and Interviews with Existing Respite Programs
Workshop 5: Staffing & Volunteers, Recruitment & Hiring, Training, and Program Growth
Workshop 6: Additional Resources, Grant Writing, and Wrap-Up Assignments
To receive a certificate of completion, participants must:
Complete the cumulative assignment (a program plan), and
Schedule a meeting with Val Madsen, the contracted workshop instructor, to review your plan and discuss any questions about designing your respite program.
Unsure if you want to register for the course? Read what past workshop attendees had to say about BRYC HERE.
Finished the Workshop Series?
Next Steps!
Once you’ve completed all applicable Workshop Series and developed your program plan, you should schedule a 30-minute meeting with Val Madsen, the workshop instructor, to present your project.
After your meeting, you’ll:
- Receive your BRYC Certificate of Completion
- Become eligible to apply for:
This program is supported by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $2,042,074 with 75% percentage funded by ACL/HHS and $689,234 with 25% percentage funded by State of Wisconsin source(s). The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by ACL/HHS, or the U.S. Government.