Our decisions are shaped by many factors: judgments, feelings, and the expectations of others. To love or to be loved? For many, this remains one of life’s greatest questions. This same challenge has led the Brown family to the creation of Bernie’s Happy Home, a place where families like them can find the support and community they have longed for.
As a mom and dad of a family of four, Stephanie Brown and her husband have been struggling to find a place for their daughter, Bernadette Brown. Bernadette was diagnosed with Rubinstein-Taybi Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder marked by intellectual disability and distinctive physical features. Since 2023, when Bernie’s Happy Home was first created, it has carried the mission of bringing individuals with disabilities around Montana together. They hold the belief that this “home” could be “where adults with special needs can thrive, build meaningful relationships, and gain a sense of independence” (Bernie’s Happy Home). According to Stephanie Brown, in order to make their dreams and the dreams of many other families of special needs adults in Montana come true, having a certain level of support and awareness from the local community is crucial in helping these families. Starting off without any official funding, Brown’s basement was where she worked to plan events, manage financial stability, and look for people interested in joining them. All these efforts have been for one purpose: the support of those in need.
Bernadette, also known as Bernie, is a brave 6-year-old girl with an infectious smile and one of the first to shed light on the special needs adults in Montana. Although Bernie’s experiences are different from others around her age, her adversities don’t take away from her ability to radiate unwavering optimism and joy. “She is like the mascot, like all the kids, because she’s always happy, (and will) just touch everyone, and wave as she just gets their attention,” said Brown. “Bernie has an air about her that people just know that she’s a good person,” continued Brown.
Loving, stubborn, and tenacious are not just words Brown uses to describe her daughter, but a part of who she is. Rather than being defined by her circumstances,
“She doesn’t get frustrated when things don’t work for her the first time, she just keeps going,” states Brown as she reflects on Bernie’s silent strength that pushes her to overcome adversity. “She doesn’t even realize that this isn’t fair that other people have everything works out easier than her, which is kind of a blessing,” Brown explains.
Being one of the first, among very few, non–profits geared towards helping the special needs in Montana, it was challenging for Brown and her family to bring attention to Bernie’s Happy Home in the community. According to Brown, “So many people are not aware of what we’re doing or that we’re even a thing right now.” However, her faith in the Billings community hasn’t faded away. Brown believes this fund, and its story is changing people out there, especially when there are so many positive responses from the community. Support from families contributes to the future of Bernie’s Happy Home.
Since the fund was first created over a year ago, the Brown family has put their goals into action. Bernie’s Happy Home recently received a $1000 donation from BCCHS because of their Sweats Day fundraiser. Brown also fundraised by selling caramel apples at St. Pius on Halloween to both spread awareness and gain financial resources. Most recently, there was the November 18th silent auction, when people and businesses whose hearts had been touched by Bernie’s Happy Home donated meaningful baskets of utensils, food, handmade appliances, and even more to the fund. If you’re looking for a meaningful volunteer activity that involves getting to know people from various circumstances and to see the “blessing” in each of them, Bernie’s Happy Home always values your help. A monetary donation isn’t the only way to show your kindness and involvement. There is also the opportunity to donate time, skills, services, and even supplies and equipment that are helpful to those with special needs. Offering your involvement at future events can be a significant help.
In a world where supporting those with special needs is vital, Bernie’s Happy Home is the ideal place to dedicate your heart and effort. Your support creates meaningful change whether it’s through financial contributions or lending a helping hand. Once again, Bernie’s Happy Home is inviting you to make a difference in the community. For more information about future events and the story of brave and beloved Bernadette, please visit https://www.bernieshappyhome.com.
