Every person is made in the image of God and has a place in this church family. Fellowship's Special Needs Ministry exists so that individuals with special needs — and their families — can experience real belonging, not just accommodation, as we follow Jesus together.
What to Expect on Sunday
Walking into a new church with a child or young adult who has special needs can be intimidating — you don't have to figure it out on your own.
Here's what your first Sunday will look like:
- When you arrive, head to the first-time check-in area in our Learning Center. If you've filled out the First Visit form ahead of time, our team will already know you and your family are coming.
- You'll meet your child's Buddy or, for Lift, one of our leaders — someone ready to introduce themselves, answer questions, and help your child feel comfortable before you head to your own service.
- We'll talk through anything your child needs — sensory sensitivities, communication style, comfort items, or anything else that helps them have a good morning.
Have questions before Sunday?
New to Fellowship?
If you're bringing a child or young adult to Buddy Ministry (ages 2–11) or Lift (7th grade and up) for the first time, fill out our First Visit form before Sunday. It only takes a few minutes and helps our team be ready for you and your family before you arrive — no waiting around at check-in.
Buddy Ministry
Birth – 6th Grade
Children who need extra assistance are matched one-on-one with a Buddy — a specially trained volunteer who gets to know your child personally and walks alongside them in class. Our goal isn't just supervision; it's authentic inclusion, so your child experiences the same faith-filled community every other kid does.
How it works:
- Reach out to Laney Morrissey, our Children's Coordinator for Buddy Ministry.
- Meet with Laney to walk through our Buddy process together.
- Build a personal care plan so your Buddy knows exactly how to support your child.
From there, we prayerfully match your child with a Buddy — we want it to be a good fit, so this step may take a little time.
Lift Ministry
7th Grade and Up
Lift is a Sunday gathering built for students and young adults with special needs. The room is outfitted with sensory activities, so students have space to engage and re-center in whatever way helps them. Each week includes worship, a Bible lesson, serving opportunities, and games — all shaped so that biblical truth feels real and relevant to their lives. Lift meets Sundays at 9:00am in the small classroom located in the Commons.
Want to visit or learn more before Sunday? Contact — she's happy to answer questions and help your family feel ready to come.
Dads of Kids with Special Needs
Sundays | 9am | Brentwood Campus
Begins Sept 6 and will meet every other week through May.
Join us twice a month on Sunday mornings as we explore what it means to be the father of a child—whether a student or an adult—with special challenges.
This group provides a place for dads to connect, encourage one another, and discuss the unique joys and challenges of fatherhood. Together, we'll explore barriers to communication, how to navigate the unexpected situations that arise each day, and practical strategies for building stronger connections with our children.
Whether you're looking for encouragement, fresh ideas, or simply a community of dads who understand, you're welcome here.
Ways to Serve
Special Needs Ministry runs on great volunteers, and training is provided for every role — no experience required, just a willing heart.
What makes a good Buddy?
- A servant's heart
- A passion for children with special needs
- College students exploring a future working with kids or special education
- Someone who can commit to serving weekly on Sundays
- A flexible, go-with-it mindset
Not sure where you'd fit? Reach out to Laney Morrissey — she'd love to help you find your place.
