Southeast Kansas Respite Services began in 1990 and was incorporated with the assistance of the board members in 1991. Our mission is for individuals across the life span and their families to have access to quality respite services and a variety of other services and supports through collaborative partnerships within communities of Southeast Kansas. Leaders from the Kansas University Center on Developmental Disabilities (KUCDD) at Parsons, joined by Parsons State Hospital and Training Center, the Parsons State Hospital Endowment Association, CLASS LTD, Tri-Valley Developmental Services and Labette Community college recognized Respite Services as a critical component of comprehensive programs serving persons with developmental disabilities and their families.

The Board of Directors, collaborative agencies, along with the staff of SEKRS, Inc. share a conviction that Respite Services is an effective and cost efficient means of helping families maintain a family member with special needs in their own home. Southeast Kansas Area Agency on Aging soon became a partner of SEKRS, Inc., helping provide both leadership and funding, enabling caregivers of the elderly to benefit from Respite Services.

Individualized Care

• Care for persons of all ages who have special needs
• Options for families to identify their own provider or to select from our group of trained providers.
• Matching the needs of the family with the skills of the provider

Families can count on

• A break or rest from the care required by a loved one with special needs
• Experienced and well trained providers and family satisfaction
• The convenience of having staff schedule Respite Services
• Satisfaction

Peace of Mind

• Prior to the respite taking place, the provider and staff visit the family to become familiar with the specific needs and requirements
• Providers have undergone comprehensive background checks
• College credit for training is available for providers' professional development