When Robert and Jean Breckenridge discovered that their youngest of two sons, Jimmy, had Downs Syndrome, they began to speculate about the future. Jimmy would never be able to live on his own or take care of himself. How could they ensure he’d be safe and cared for when they were gone? They also began to think about all the other parents who were facing the same dilemma. Was there a way to help not only Jimmy, but some of the other children as well?
Robert and Jean began to dream of creating a home for adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities – one that was faith-based and provided a warm community of care for those that needed protection when their families could no longer care for them. Together, they purchased 78 acres near their home in Tyler, Texas to serve as the future site of the residential community they dreamed of. Then, without warning, the family lost both Robert Sr. and Robert Jr. in a short amount of time. Jean was overwhelmed with loss and heartbreak. Even in the aftermath of her tragic loss, Mrs. Jean would not let their dream die. Her tenacity and strong will would not let her give up, and she approached Green Acres Baptist Church about the possibility of building a home for persons with intellectual or developmental disabilities.
Dr. David Dykes then introduced Mrs. Jean to Mr. Kevin Dinnin, President and CEO of BCFS. Kevin was inspired by her vision and passion to make her dream a reality. Mrs. Jean contributed her land, and under the leadership of Mr. Dinnin and the partnership of the Texas Baptist Men Retiree Builders (TBM), Breckenridge Village opened its doors to house adults with developmental disabilities in April of 1998. Thanks to Mrs. Jean’s gift of love, BCFS, and TBM, the Breckenridge family’s vision became a reality. Through a very generous donation from the Rogers Foundation, consisting of board members Dr. Paul Powell, Sheryl Palmer, and Robyn Rogers, the addition of the beautiful Robert M. Rogers Chapel to the Breckenridge Village campus was dedicated in April of 2000.
This chapel was given to honor the life of Mr. Robert M. Rogers. Breckenridge Village has provided services to hundreds of individuals with developmental disabilities, all of whom had families who were at a loss to take care of them. Breckenridge Village continues to be a beacon of hope to families from across our state and beyond.
At Breckenridge Village, our purpose is to reflect God’s love by creating a nurturing, supportive, and empowering environment where every resident and day program participant is valued, respected, and encouraged to live with dignity and purpose. Rooted in faith, we believe every person is created with unique gifts and talents, and it is our mission to help them discover and develop those God-given abilities.
Our work is guided by four core values that define our purpose, inspire our actions, and reflect our faith-based approach:
Our Commitment:
We are committed to upholding these values through every aspect of our work. This commitment drives us to provide personalized care, encourage independence, and create opportunities for growth, learning, and joy. Every program, every interaction, and every goal is designed to uplift and support each person as they pursue their unique path.
We are dedicated to:
Through the support of families, the dedication of staff, and the generosity of donors, Breckenridge Village continues to grow and evolve. Together, we create a community where compassion, purpose, and hope flourish. Every day, we are honored to walk alongside our residents and participants as they pursue their goals, discover their potential, and live with joy and fulfillment.
This is our mission. This is our calling. We are building a community of compassion, hope, and opportunity.
With gratitude and faith,
Melissa Perkins
President, Breckenridge Village
(903)705-5165
cv3550@breckenridgevillage.com
(903) 817-9378
af5444@breckenridgevillage.com