special needs

The Buddy Program at Outer West is designed to support children aged 3 months through 5th grade who have Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome, and ADHD. While we may be able to support children with other special needs, this is determined on a case-by-case basis in partnership with parents/caregivers and OWCC Staff.

At Outer West, we strive to offer an inclusive environment for children with special needs, which is why we aim to provide a Buddy for every child who needs one. While we do have a small "Chill Room" available for children who may become overstimulated or need a break, we do not have the capacity or facility space to manage a separate special needs program.

While we currently have openings for Buddies in Outer West Kids, our heart is to be a church that serves individuals with special needs across all ages.

Yes, absolutely!

To ensure your child is paired with the right Buddy, please fill out the Special Needs Contact Form. Our Next Gen team will reach out to you, and we’ll work together to find the best Buddy for your child. This process might take a few weeks or longer, but in the meantime, we’re committed to making Outer West Kids a welcoming environment for both you and your child. We encourage you to attend Outer West Kids with your child until we can match them with the right Buddy.

Thank you for your heart and interest to serve with our Special Needs Ministry. We understand this may feel like a big and intimidating step, but from our experience, serving is one of the most rewarding roles at Outer West. Once you complete this form, our team will be in touch with you about the next steps which will include screening and a background check. We’ll also provide all the resources and training you need to be an amazing volunteer!