special needs

Our heart is for every child to be supported so that they can engage with their peers and learn about God.

we live in compassionate community where everyone belongs

If you are a parent caring for a child with special needs, we want you to know that here at OWCC, we welcome people of all abilities to be a part of our community and experience God together. We recognize that your experience is truly unique and we want to walk alongside you on this journey.

The Buddy Program at OWCC is designed to ensure that kids with special needs can fully engage and participate in all Outer West Kids environments (ranging from 3 months to 5th grade) during weekend services.

buddy program

Caring For Your Child

Our goal is to support every child through one-on-one Buddy care.

Your next step

Please fill out our Special Needs Contact Form, and we’ll reach out to schedule an interview and a visit to Outer West! Please be aware that it may take a few weeks to find the right Buddy match for your child. We’re committed to working closely with you to ensure that your child, and all the children in Outer West Kids, have a wonderful experience.

Being a parent of a child with special needs is life-changing, and we don’t want you to walk this journey alone. We invite you to join our Special Needs Care Group, where you can connect with other parents who understand and share similar experiences.

Our Special Needs Care Group meets on the 4th Saturday of each month
at a local coffee shop (location TBD).

PARENTS

FAQs

  • 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 the Next Gen team at Outer West.

    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. Please contact us at info@outerwest.org regarding options for those past 5th grade.

  • 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 willingness to serve the kids with special needs at Outer West. We understand this may feel like a big and intimidating step, but from our experience, serving as a Buddy is one of the most rewarding roles at Outer West. Once you complete this form, our Next Gen team will be in touch with you about the next steps. We’ll also provide all the resources and training you need to be an amazing Buddy!

special needs stories

Hear our heart behind serving those with Special Needs and our vision for the future of OWCC’s Special Needs Ministry.

Hear the story of how God worked in the lives of Glenn & Tomoyo Tillman as they raised twins with Primordial Dwarfism