A Billings Family is Creating Happy Homes for Special Needs Adults

As a parent of a child with special needs, it has certainly crossed my mind about how she's going to function out in the real world when she becomes an adult. Granted, she's only nine, and can certainly stay at home with us as long as she wants. But her mom and I obviously won't live forever... then what?

And... even if I live to be 100, I can't imagine my kid will want to live with Mom and Dad forever. I suspect she'll want to spread her wings and experience some level of independence.

This week, I learned about a relatively new non-profit here in the Magic City called Bernie's Happy Home. Justin and Stephanie Brown had a baby girl in 2017, named Bernadette. Shortly after "Bernie" was born, they found out she had a rare genetic condition called Rubinstein-Taybi Syndrome.

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The National Library of Medicine describes the condition,

Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome is a condition characterized by short stature, moderate to severe intellectual disability, distinctive facial features, and broad thumbs and first toes.

 

Additional features of the disorder can include eye abnormalities, heart and kidney defects, dental problems, and obesity.

Because it's a genetic disorder, there is no cure, and treatment focuses on managing symptoms, supporting development, and improving quality of life through multidisciplinary care.

Bernie's Happy Home will help fill a desperate need in our area.

In the previous paragraph, I emphasized "improving quality of life" because that's what Bernie's Happy Home project is essentially all about. While Bernie is a happy, gregarious child who spreads joy to everyone she comes in contact with, her parents' concern is something I also share... "What about my child when I can no longer care for them at home?"

Bernie's Happy Home will provide housing for those aged 18+ with special needs in our area. Their mission is "to create a nurturing, inclusive environment where adults with special needs can thrive, build meaningful relationships, and gain a sense of independence."

Bernie's Happy Home hopes to break ground soon.

There are over 6,000 individuals age 18+ in the Billings area with special needs, while there are only roughly 250 living units available. It's easy to see the desperate need for places like Bernie's Happy Home in Yellowstone County.

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The Browns have purchased property near 56th and Hesper, where they plan to build four eight-person homes. The homes will have 24/7 staff (and volunteers) on-site, as well as certified nursing staff. They're hoping to create the facility without taking on any debt, allowing them to provide housing at no cost to its residents. 

Stephanie said they've received a ton of support already from the community and local businesses. They've set a fundraising goal of $200,000 this year, and have several upcoming events planned (like the one below).

Join Bernie's Happy Home at a fundraising dinner on February 28th at the Columbia Club (2216 Grand Ave). Attendees will enjoy a delicious bone-in ribeye carving station, served with baby potatoes, green beans, and a decadent dessert bar.

Tables are $700, and individual tickets are $100. The auction begins at 5 PM, with dinner service starting at 6. Get tickets and more info HERE.

Disclosure: Townsquare Media Billings is a sponsor of this event.