Article by Jessica Renstrom

Photos by Mackenzie Scheie Photography 

All parents want to see their child grow, thrive, and build a joyful life. But for families of children with special needs, that vision often carries an extra layer of complexity and uncertainty. For the Brown family, that uncertainty became a call to action. 

Bernadette, Bernie, to those who love her, is the daughter of Stephanie and Justin Brown. At just 2 months old, she was diagnosed with Rubinstein-Taybi Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder affecting approximately 1 in 250,000 people that causes developmental delays, intellectual disabilities, and physical challenges. 

Bernie's 2017 diagnosis led her parents to research residential care options for her future. Nothing fit their vision, so they built their own. Bernie's Happy Home launched in 2023, and three years in, the Browns have purchased property and continue raising funds to support the home and its programming. 

"I am happy to care for Bernie as long as she needs, but also want her to be as independent as possible," Stephanie says. "I think a lot of parents feel this way, not just parents of kids with special needs. We considered all of this when deciding on the operations of Bernie's Happy Home and how we would include families as a part of the care." 

That family-inclusive model is one of many things that sets Bernie's Happy Home apart from traditional care facilities. A volunteer program invites parents to contribute their time alongside trained staff, ensuring residents receive consistent, individualized care while easing the burden on any one family. The result is a stronger community, where families find genuine support in one another. 

"By utilizing the bond of family members, we help the residents feel safe and loved in the transition into Bernie's Happy Home; we help families know their loved one is safe and happy, while also teaching our staff how to treat each person as an individual," Stephanie says.

That mission extends to a long-term promise. As Justin puts it, the home's ultimate goal is "knowing that our mission has given families the peace of mind that their loved ones with disabilities will live their lives with independence and support long after parents are gone." 

Since launching, Bernie's Happy Home has drawn an outpouring of support from across Yellowstone County, and the Browns look forward to opening their doors to local families. "I am truly thankful to all the supporters," Justin says. "All of the support that we have received from the community is humbling and overwhelming." 

Thanks to the support of the community and the Browns' tireless efforts, foundation plans are now underway. The next big milestone will be breaking ground, which the Browns plan to celebrate with a ceremony soon. 

Bernie's Happy Home hosts annual fundraisers throughout the year, including a Gala in February, a Tea Party in April, and a Golf Tournament in June. Next up is a Bowling Tournament on Aug. 29 at Town and Country Lanes. To learn more or get involved, visit bernieshappyhome.com. 

Originally printed in the July 2026 issue of Simply Local Magazine

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