Special Needs Ministry

Special Blessings is dedicated to providing environments that help develop spiritual, physical and emotional lives of children with special needs while providing support for their families.

Our Sunday morning services provide care for children with Special Needs in PK4– 6th grade at both the 9:30 and 11:00 services. A class for youth through 12th grade is provided during the 11:00 am service. Adults with Special Needs are provided care on a case by case basis.

The adult leaders and youth volunteers have a huge heart and love for working with our children with special needs.  Each volunteer goes through an application process that involves a background check, interview, and classroom training.
A sensory-friendly, small group classroom to learn about Jesus
Modified Bible lessons with hands-on activities
Additional volunteers to meet each child’s needs individually
Safe and secure environment for your child while you attend Sunday morning service or groups

Our Program

Eligibility

In order to provide the best environment where each individual can grow in their faith, every prospective participant must meet the following criteria and be pre-registered in order to participate in Special Blessings:
  • Be able to interact with volunteers and follow one step directions
  • Able to participate in parallel or small group activities with volunteers and peers.
  • Does not require specialized and/or medical care
  • Must not pose a threat to themselves or others due to aggressive behavior*. (The Special Needs Ministry defines aggressive behavior as behavior that is forceful and/or hostile either verbally and/or physically.)

Application & Participation Process

  1. Parents complete the registration form online for their child to be in the Special Blessings class
  2. The Special Needs Ministry Coordinator will contact parents and set up a site visit
  3. The child will be assigned a class considering developmental levels, age and or family needs
  4. Communicate weekly via text or email for Sunday Morning attendance to ensure coverage

Inclusion

Children with Special Needs who may not require a regular small group setting may participate in Kids Town and Youth programs with accommodations.  Please contact our Special Needs Coordinator to discuss your child’s individual needs.

Communication

Communication is the key to creating a successful environment for your child. We as a church family want to welcome you with open arms and offer you the support you need for your spiritual journey.  We are neither a medical facility nor a school, but simply a place where you and your child will feel cared for and loved.
The Special Needs Ministry reserves the right to make case-by-case decisions based on a participant’s individual and specialized need for care.
Register

Meet the team.

Amy Thac

Special Needs Coordinator

Mandy Mouser

Director | Gateway Kids