Welcome to Buddy Break!

We’re so happy to get to know you and your child! Now that you have completed the VIP Orientation, you can participate in any of our Buddy Break locations nationwide (visit www.NathanielsHope.org for all locations and dates). As you participate in the Buddy Break program it is important to remember the following information:

To Reserve a Spot
Each date that you wish your child/children to attend Buddy Break, you must RSVP by contacting the location coordinator no later than two days before the Buddy Break.
Please inform us if any sibling(s) will be attending with your VIP(s).
You will receive a confirmation. If all spaces are taken, you will be put on a waiting list and notified when a space becomes available.
If you have made a reservation and cannot attend, please call to cancel, even if it is the day of the Buddy Break, as this may open up a space for someone else.
You may RSVP for the next Buddy Break, at that location, immediately following the current Buddy Break.

The Day of Buddy Break
Please arrive and pick up your child on time.
Saturday Buddy Break hours are 10:00 a.m.—1:00 p.m. Friday Buddy Break hours are 6:30—9:30 p.m. Buddies are only there during scheduled hours, so please pick up your child on time.
Please do NOT bring children who are sick. We do not want to put other children, especially our medically fragile kids, at risk.
When you check in, you will be asked to leave an emergency phone number.
Please let us know if there are any medical or personal information changes that need to be updated. (Remember, you also need to make these changes in the Online Database. Let the Coordinator know if you need help with this.)

What to bring:
Labeled snack for your child/children. We do not provide snacks or drinks due to food allergies.
Diapers and wipes (as needed)
Any medication or supplies that your child/children might need (accompanied by the Medication Form available at Buddy Break.)
Any special equipment or communication device your child/children may use.

Other programs offered by Nathaniel’s Hope to support the special needs community

Make ‘m Smile
This annual community event is dedicated to celebrating VIP kids and their families. It features a Buddy Stroll, free entertainment, food, family activities, and exhibitors that provide resources for the special needs community.

Caroling for Kids
We share hope and encouragement with patients, families, and caregivers at children’s hospitals and with
homebound VIP families on Christmas day through caroling, prayer, and
bearing goodies and gifts.

Bearing Hope
A loveable, plush beanie bear is given to VIP kids to communicate the hope that we share through Nathaniel's Hope.

VIP Birthday Club
VIP kids become national club members and are celebrated with a card on their birthday, plus other special recognition throughout the year. Kids can also have their picture and a story posted online.

Hall of Hope
We are dedicated to remembering VIP kids who have left us and relocated to their heavenly home. Cards are sent to families on their child’s birth date and homegoing date. Join us online in remembering the imprint they have made on our hearts and lives.

Contact us at:
Nathaniel’s Hope
2300 Jetport Drive
Orlando, FL 32809
Office: 407-857-8224
Email: BuddyBreak@NathanielsHope.org
Website: www.NathanielsHope.org