HISTORY
RAVE was established in October 1995 through a grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services with the overall goal to prevent child abuse and neglect for children with special needs and/or disabilities. In 1998, RAVE became an independent nonprofit organization. Ever since, we have provided respite care to Nevada families who care for young children with disabilities, special health care needs, and children in foster care.
“RAVE” itself is an acronym for Respite And Volunteer Experiences. Thusly, RAVE boasts dynamic and community-based programs that provide respite care. Respite is an essential break given to caregivers of children with disabilities, special health care needs, children in foster care, and their siblings while training youth volunteers to carry on the spirit of this work into our community. Our programs are provided to families residing in Northern Nevada caring for loved ones from 3 months of age to 22 years old with a diagnosed disability, special health care need, children in foster care, and their siblings in the home who are considered typically developing. By providing temporary emotional relief from the constant care and loving attention our families provide essentially to their children, we are allowing a reprieve that strengthens the quality of care parents and guardians deliver. With time to disconnect, relax, unwind, or enjoy activities not typically available to families caring for a child with special needs, caregivers can return to their crucial role for these children with less stress and a renewed spirit. Not only do our programs provide highly-needed breaks for caregivers from the extra care their children require, but our center and community based programs creates a space for children to just be kids in a safe, fun, and social environment.
Since our very beginning, RAVE has consistently worked towards expanding our impact as well as our capacity to benefit the disability community in Northern Nevada. What began as an organization with a specific and singular focus on young children with disabilities has evolved into a multifaceted and far-reaching force that now serves children in foster care and children and young adults with disabilities from ages 7-22. As an organization dedicated to strengthening and maintaining families, we also care for siblings of the children we serve if they fall into the same age range.
