About Us
Lifespan Respite Network
Take the Nebraska Caregiver Survey!
In 1999, the Nebraska Legislature established the Nebraska Lifespan Respite Program (LB 148). Based on this legislation, the Department of Health and Human Services established six Lifespan Respite Service Areas to coordinate respite resources across Nebraska.
Maurita Olguin
Michelle Tinnes
Melanie Loggins
Paula Wimer
Dan Petersen
Ivy Bloom
In Memory of Sherri Blome
On December 12, 2025, the Nebraska Lifespan Respite Network lost its longest-serving respite coordinator and an unrivaled advocate for caregivers in Western Nebraska. Sherri Blome passed away after serving the Respite Network since its beginning in 2000.
During Sherri's twenty-five years of service, she assisted hundreds of caregivers across the eleven counties of Nebraska's Panhandle. She was an invaluable resource for individuals with special health care needs and their families. As a respite coordinator, Sherri showed immense compassion, connecting caregivers with local respite providers who could offer relief and recuperation.
Sherri proved to be a strong and tireless champion for respite recipients in her work with the Lifespan Respite Program. She diligently advocated for families in Western Nebraska and ensured the wellbeing of caregivers. Sherri forged trusting relationships with providers and expanded respite opportunities available to families in her area. Her dedication extended beyond the Western service area through the training and guidance she offered to respite coordinators throughout the rest of the state. She often referred to herself as the "Grandma of the Network," a role personified through her warmth, steadfastness, and broad expertise.
Sherri will be remembered by her community as a voice for those with special health care needs and the families who make daily sacrifices to care for their loved ones. More than most, she embodied the heart of the Nebraska Lifespan Respite Network, and her legacy of compassion and advocacy for caregivers will endure in the lives of everyone she served.
Our Services
-
Finding a Provider
-
Funding Resources
-
Discussion Groups
-
Caregiver Resources
-
Become a Provider
-
Employer Engagement
Finding a Provider
Finding a Provider
There are several ways to find a respite provider. Provider search allows you to directly search the Nebraska Resource and Referral (NRRS) database of Nebraska respite providers. Simply select the type of respite care you need (in home, out-of-home, community-based setting) and the location in which you're looking for services. Nebraska Lifespan Respite Network screened providers are denoted with an icon (these providers have completed background checks, provided references and completed a new provider orientation). To find a provider that best meets your care needs, use Respite Provider Match - a self-assessment that will connect you with respite providers based on your needs and location. You may also reach out to a respite coordinator in your area, who can help connect you with a respite provider.
Respite Provider Match Search the Nebraska Resource and Referral System Talk to a Respite Coordinator
Funding Resources
Funding Resources
Caregiving can be demanding. Getting respite care is important for your health and for your ability to continue to care for your loved one. Respite care provides relief for the family caregiver, whether it is for a few hours, a few days or a week. Take care of yourself! Your first call should be to a respite coordinator at 1-866-RESPITE (1-866-737-7483).
View More
Discussion Groups
Discussion Groups
Discussion groups for caregivers provide a valuable space for individuals facing the challenges of caring for their loved ones to come together, share experiences, and offer mutual support. These groups often serve as forums where caregivers can discuss practical tips, emotional struggles, and coping strategies. Participants in these discussions gain a sense of connection and understanding, realizing they are not alone in their journey. Facilitated by professionals or peers, these groups provide a safe and non-judgmental environment where caregivers can express concerns, seek advice, and receive empathy. By fostering a sense of community, discussion groups contribute to the well-being of caregivers, helping them navigate the complexities of their roles with greater resilience and confidence.
View More
Caregiver Resources
Caregiver Resources
Family Caregiver Resources are essential support systems designed to assist individuals who take on the responsibility of caring for their family members in times of illness, disability, or old age. These resources aim to provide practical assistance, emotional support, and valuable information to help caregivers navigate the challenges associated with their caregiving roles.
These resources may include educational materials, training programs, and workshops to equip caregivers with the necessary skills and knowledge. Additionally, they often offer counseling services to address the emotional and psychological aspects of caregiving, recognizing the unique stressors that caregivers may face.
View More
Become a Provider
Become a Provider
Do you provide respite care for those who dedicate their time and energy to caring for their ill or disabled loved ones? Thank you. We do too. At Nebraska Lifespan Respite Network we care for those who care for others. It is our mission to educate Nebraskans on the respite services available, as well as industry accomplishments, that make their lives as a family caregiver a little easier.
Respite offers family caregivers a temporary break from the ongoing demands of caring for their loved one. Our respite providers work closely with family caregivers to determine the best options for respite in the home or in the community. Those eligible for training as respite providers—both paid and volunteer—must be over the age of 14. However, requirements to provide paid respite vary by program or funding source.
View More
Employer Engagement
Employer Engagement
Employers in Nebraska should be aware of Respite for several compelling reasons. Firstly, Respite serves as a valuable resource for businesses seeking to enhance employee well-being and productivity. By offering respite services, employers can contribute to a healthier work-life balance for their staff, ultimately reducing burnout and increasing overall job satisfaction.
Respite in Nebraska provides a supportive framework for employers to address the unique challenges faced by caregivers within their workforce. Recognizing and accommodating the needs of employees who serve as caregivers can lead to improved retention rates and a more compassionate workplace culture.
Proclamation Signing & Celebration
Governor Jim Pillen has officially proclaimed November 2025 as Family Caregivers’ Month in Nebraska! From the heartfelt signing ceremony to a ribbon-tying tribute on the Capitol lawn, this event honored the dedication of caregivers across the state. Read our full recap.
My son and I benefit so much from Respite. We both love his provider and she is eager to see him. I leave knowing I can relax and enjoy my time and not stress. I love that! We are so blessed!
Cargiver –
Caregiver"Visiting Angels is an amazing help to my mom. Sara comes out every week and is so great at spending time with my mom and giving my dad a break when he needs it."
Daughter of Sara –
My kids love having Sarah for a respite provider. We have had her for 3 years now and she's become more like family.
Caregiver –
Respite helps a lot when I need a break. When using respite, I like to go on a walk.
Caregiver –
My kids love Tabor Dance and are learning a lot. It is a great thing for them and it gives me some time alone.
Caregiver –
Since we added Respite care, my stress has gone down, my overall health has improved, and my family is a lot more understanding now.
