Buddy Break is coming to First Free Will Baptist Church!

We’re thrilled to partner with Nathaniel’s Hope to launch Buddy Break—a FREE Parents’-Day-Out respite program designed especially for families raising children with special needs (“VIP kids”). While VIP kids and their siblings enjoy three fun-filled hours with their own trained “Buddy,” parents and caregivers get a much-needed BREAK.

What happens at Buddy Break?

  • One-to-one “Buddies” help VIP kids make new friends, play games, create crafts, hear engaging stories, sing songs, and more—all in a safe, loving environment.


Who are the “Buddies”?

  • Volunteers age 14+ who complete a 2-hour Buddy Training 101 course and pass a background check—no prior experience required! nathanielshope.org

  • Buddies serve side-by-side with each VIP child, creating memorable friendships and giving caregivers peace of mind.


Why Buddy Break matters

Families caring for children with special needs often experience fatigue and isolation. By giving them three worry-free hours, we demonstrate Christ’s love in action—kids have FUN, parents get a BREAK, and volunteers make an eternal impact.

Ready to jump in?


  1. Pray for the launch and for the VIP families we’ll serve.
  2. Click the button above to register to volunteer.
  3. Share this page so friends who need respite—or want to help—can join us.

We can’t wait to see God use Buddy Break to bless our community!

Content and images used with permission from Nathaniel’s Hope, the national founders of Buddy Break.

Copyright 2025 First Free Will Baptist Church of Tampa. All Rights Reserved.