​​CONTACT

Who we are, what we do, how we can help.

Phone:
866-455-7377 ext. 101 or ext. 103 for Spanish-speakers.

What is respite care?

Respite Care provides temporary relief for caregivers from the ongoing responsibility of caring for an individual of any age with special needs who may be at risk of abuse or neglect.  Special needs may include any disabilities, any chronic or terminal physical, emotional, cognitive or mental health condition requiring ongoing care and supervision, including Alzheimer's disease and related disorders, developmental disabilities, and children with special medical needs.


Over one million people in the state of Illinois provide unpaid help to family members who have special needs.  it is estimated that if the work of these caregivers had to be duplicated by paid staff, the cost to the state would be 1.3 billion dollars. Respite Care is a gift of time for the caregiver.  It alleviates stress and has been shown to improve relationships.

Listen to Alexis Ivanic talk with the Disability Beat (WEFT 90.1 FM) about the IRC, who we are, and the types of supports we have available. 

A word on respite from the Illinois Respite Coalition Executive Director


Hello,

My name is Tina Yurik, and I am the Executive Director of the Illinois Respite Coalition. I accepted this position because I understand the importance of respite and how caregivers can need a break themselves to better care for their loved ones.  I have been a part of the IRC for over ten years, and I have volunteered for various nonprofits for over twenty five years. The volunteer IRC board members all have wonderful and varied expertise.  We look forward to working hard for families across the state who care for individuals with special needs.  We are very proud to be able to provide In-Home respite opportunities through grants We receive. IRC serves the state of Illinois by providing information, referrals, support and funding when available for emergency respite care across the lifespan free of charge.  Please feel free to contact the Illinois Respite Coalition to find out more about our services and trainings.
 
Best,

Tina Yurik


CONTACT THE IRC

Located Statewide

Email:

ilrespitecoalition@gmail.com

IRC Board of Directors

​Maggie Lyons
President


Vacant
Vice President


Sherryl Heinz
Treasurer


Natalie Booker
Parent Liaison


Lynn Betts
Parent Liaison


Jenny Somone
Board Member


Cheryl Smith
Board Member


Mary Yurik
Secretary/ Non-Voting Member

About the Illinois Respite Coalition

The Illinois Respite Coalition (IRC) is a not-for-profit organization of caregivers and respite providers dedicated to advocating support for families by ensuring access to quality respite services for the residents of Illinois. The IRC is dedicated to spreading the awareness of lifespan respite for caregivers of individuals with special needs.  The IRC is able to assist caregivers by connecting them to resources in their area, provide training on respite topics, and providing funding available through our various programs including: in-home respite, voucher respite, emergency respite, and the lending library program. ​







Listen to Tammy Foster and Tina Yurik talk about the IRC and how we help with R.E.P. Resources Empowering Parents. Click on the graphic for the link to the Spotify podcast.