Parc’s Caregiver Relief Program Earns National Recognition

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – Parc Center for Disabilities’ Caregiver Relief program was recognized Wednesday as an Innovative and Exemplary Respite Service for 2022 by the ARCH National Respite Network and Resource Center. The program was one of only five services from across the country awarded.

“We are tremendously proud of our Caregiver Relief Department for their outstanding representation of Parc Center for Disabilities at the national level,” said Bridie Gauthier, Assistant Vice President of Children’s Services at Parc Center for Disabilities. “This is a well-deserved testament to the team’s strong leadership, incredible dedication, and unfailing commitment to our mission of providing children and families with opportunities for intervention, education, and support.”

Established in 2010, Caregiver Relief is a pillar for families in need of assistance. The program, led by Whitney Stout and Kelly Barrie, is designed to offer short-term breaks to relieve stress for families raising a child with a diagnosed disability, developmental delay, or documented trauma. It currently serves 60 families across Pinellas County and allocates 15 to 35 hours of service per month to each family.

The program’s service and care received high accolades by the ARCH National Respite Network for its thoughtful and thorough crisis planning for families experiencing difficult life circumstances. The department’s team was also commended for its close and complementary working relationship among organization members.

“To say that I am beyond excited, does not even begin to illustrate my feelings for being recognized nationally,” said Whitney Stout, Caregiver Relief Manager. “This amazing team continues to go above and beyond for the children and families we serve, and I am extremely thankful for the unwavering and continuous support from our Executive Leadership team and Board of Directors.”