WHO WE ARE
At HOPE, we believe every person is created in the image of God with infinite value, purpose, and potential. Our Special Needs Ministry exists to ensure that children, students, and adults of all abilities can fully belong, grow in faith, and experience the love of Jesus in a community that sees and celebrates them.
JOIN US ON SUNDAY
We’re committed to helping every child have the best Sunday possible by offering flexible, inclusive experiences. Children may attend their regular Hope Kids classrooms—with or without a trained buddy—or use our sensory room as a comfortable home base. The sensory room provides the same lesson and programming, thoughtfully adapted to meet individual needs. Our trained buddies offer additional support, encouragement, and structure wherever it’s needed, helping each child feel welcomed and supported.
KIDS (BIRTH-5TH GRADE)
Sundays during the 8, 9:30, and 11:15am services:
- We offer Sensory Room support for children with special needs who benefit from a sensory-friendly environment. Children in the sensory room also participate in Bible Lessons. Trained buddies are available to provide support, either in the sensory room or in the child’s age-appropriate classroom.
- Inclusion in age-appropriate Hope Kids classes is also available and encouraged. We will work with you to help develop the best plan for your child. We offer the support of trained buddies to ensure inclusion in Hope Kids classes.
Respite Days
- Respite is a fun-filled afternoon for children (birth-high school) with special needs and their typically developing siblings, giving their parents a much-needed break. Registration is required to attend.
- 2026 Respite Dates:
- Saturday, Jan. 24 | 11am-2pm
- Friday, Apr. 24 | 5-7pm
- Saturday, Jul. 11 | 11am-2pm
- Friday, Oct. 16 | 5-7pm
STUDENTS (6TH-12TH GRADE)
Sunday nights at 5pm (Middle School) and 7pm (High School):
- We offer inclusion and support in Hope Students programming during Sunday night events. Trained buddies attend Hope Students to ensure that students with disabilities are given a supportive and enjoyable experience.
Respite Days
- Respite is a fun-filled afternoon for children (birth-high school) with special needs and their typically developing siblings, giving their parents a much-needed break. Registration is required to attend.
- 2026 Respite Dates:
- Saturday, Jan. 24 | 11am-2pm
- Friday, Apr. 24 | 5-7pm
- Saturday, Jul. 11 | 11am-2pm
- Friday, Oct. 16 | 5-7pm
ADULTS
Young Adults Bible Study on Mondays, 5-6pm:
- TBD Blurb
All-Adult Gathering on Last Monday Each Month, 6-8pm
- TBD Blurb
- Upcoming Adult Gatherings:
- January 26 | Trivia Night
- February 23 | Craft + Game Night
- March 30 | Movie Night
- April 27 | Pizza and Praise
- May 18 | Summer Kick-Off
Hope College + Young Adults
We also ensure inclusion at college + young adults gatherings!