Elmcrest Children’s Center is proud to announce the launch of a new Intensive Behavior Respite Program at Elmcrest at Casey’s Place, located at 228 Lafayette Road in Syracuse. This new program provides short-term, therapeutic respite services for youth ages 5–26 with OPWDD eligibility, including individuals with developmental disabilities, autism, or dual diagnoses who experience high behavioral needs.

This important new program is made possible through the generous support of the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation, whose continued investment helps strengthen community-based services for children, youth, and families across New York State.

Supporting Youth and Strengthening Families

Families caring for children and young adults with significant behavioral needs often face intense daily demands and limited access to specialized supports. Elmcrest’s Intensive Behavior Respite Program was created to meet this need by offering a safe, structured, and therapeutic environment where youth can build skills — while caregivers receive meaningful relief and support.

The program provides short-term respite services during after-school hours, school breaks, and summer months in a highly structured and secure setting. Services are delivered in a welcoming, home-like environment at Casey’s Place that prioritizes safety, emotional regulation, and personal growth.

“Families caring for children and young adults with significant behavioral needs are often under tremendous pressure,” said Diane Nappa, CEO of Elmcrest Children’s Center. “This new Intensive Behavior Respite Program allows us to support the whole family — providing youth with therapeutic, skill-building care while giving caregivers the relief and reassurance they need. We are deeply grateful to the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation for making this vital new program possible.”

Who the Program Is For

The Intensive Behavior Respite Program serves youth ages 5–26 who may require 24/7 supervision due to:

  • Aggression or self-injurious behaviors
  • Elopement risk
  • Difficulty with emotional regulation

Participants must have OPWDD eligibility and may include individuals with developmental disabilities, autism, or dual diagnoses.

What Makes This Program Different

Elmcrest’s Intensive Behavior Respite Program takes a person-centered, collaborative approach, supported by a highly trained clinical team and evidence-based practices. Program highlights include:

  • Behavioral Specialist on site
  • Registered Nurse (RN) support
  • Initial 1:1 supervision, with a focus on skill-building toward increased independence
  • Evidence-based behavioral interventions
  • Active family involvement and consistent communication

The Casey’s Place facility includes a high-tech sensory room, observation rooms, and an accessible playground, creating an environment that supports both therapeutic care and positive engagement.

A Partnership That Makes a Difference

Elmcrest is deeply grateful to the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation for its commitment to advancing health equity and strengthening systems of care throughout New York State. Their support makes it possible to launch programs that reduce caregiver burnout, prevent out-of-home placements, and promote stability and well-being for families.

Learn More

Families and referral partners interested in learning more about the Intensive Behavior Respite Program at Casey’s Place are encouraged to contact:

Ashley Shumpert
ashumpert@elmcrest.org
(315) 492-9990

Elmcrest remains committed to building on the promise of children and families by providing compassionate, innovative, and community-centered services.