Before moving to Breckenridge Village, my brother Stephen lived at home with our mom. She loved and cared for him deeply — and she gave him the best life she could. But as time went on, it became clear that he needed more than what one person could provide. He needed a community, opportunities, and a place where he could truly grow. Since coming to live at Breckenridge, Stephen’s world has opened up. He has been able to keep his job in the community, volunteers weekly in day program, has learned to grill, and has become more social and confident. He’s even learned to advocate for himself — speaking up when he feels disrespected or unheard. Stephen has more independence and fulfillment now than we ever imagined possible — and so much of that is because of the support he receives at Breckenridge Village. This East Texas Giving Day, I’m celebrating the place that gave my brother the life he deserves. If you’ve ever wondered whether your support makes a difference — just look at Stephen.

Breckenridge Village of Tyler is dedicated to serving a group of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, in a warm, safe, family-like setting that seeks to empower each person as he or she develops spiritually, physically, mentally, emotionally, and socially in a safe, loving, and closely supervised environment. Our core values are to Love God, Value People, Care Passionately, and to Work Together.