Brighthouse for Children is a not-for-profit recreation and support center for individuals with special needs and their families. All Brighthouse activities are committed to making life better for children and adults with special needs and their families. Brighthouse programs and activities encourage individuals with special needs to explore their unique talents and build self-esteem, while promoting relationships with family, friends and peers. Brighthouse for Children educates and raises awareness on special needs through unique activities and community involvement.

Mission of Brighthouse

The mission of Brighthouse for Children is to provide recreational activities and support programs for individuals with special needs and their families; to foster the self-esteem and unique skills of individuals with special needs; to promote relationships with family, friends and peers; and, to raise awareness about and advance inclusion of individuals with special needs.

Our Inspiration

When our daughter Ava was born with Down syndrome in 2004, we sought out opportunities for her to explore her unique talents at a recreational and support center specifically for children with special needs. Unable to find such a place, we decided to start one. Brighthouse for Children will be a place where individuals with disabilities are encouraged to explore their world in a safe environment with challenging and unique activities.

Brighthouse will also be a place where children with disabilities can interact with their typically developing peers; where families with shared experiences can come together to gain support and to celebrate the unique gifts their children bring; and where the community can learn about the range of abilities of children with special needs.

Brighthouse for Children will not be a daycare. Parents, caregivers, relatives, friends and others will be with their children at all times, providing the necessary support and encouragement for their children with special needs.

Our goal is to have a variety of fun, unique and challenging programs and activities that provide real-life experiences and opportunities, including:

• Open toddler play (ages 3 and under)
• Literacy tutoring
• Story time (incorporating American Sign Language)
• Monthly birthday parties
• Monthly teen social events such as dances, plays, and movie nights
• Art classes incorporating sensory activities
• Computer classes
• A lending library of information on special needs
• Support groups for adults
• Advocacy referrals for the public school system, transitioning out of high school, etc.
• Mentoring programs
• Job apprenticeship programs

How to Get Involved

Join our mailing list for updates on Brighthouse!

Amy Parham, CEO Brighthouse for Children