special needs

Our heart is for every individual 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 or caregiver caring for an individual with special needs, we want you to know that here at OWCC, we welcome people of all abilities to be a part of and participate in our community and experience God together. We recognize that your experience is truly unique and we want to walk alongside you on this journey.

TAKE YOUR NEXT STEPS

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. Our goal is to support every child through one-on-one Buddy care or in an adaptive classroom.

buddy program

BUDDY CONNECT

Our desire is to see those with Special Needs have a place to be know and belong in every stage and season of life. Please fill out our Special Needs Contact Form, and we’ll reach out to schedule an interview and a visit to Outer West!

disability ministry

CONNECT FORM

Being a parent, grandparent, or adult sibling caretaker of an individual 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 or caregivers who understand and share similar experiences. Our Special Needs Care Group is the best place to start!

Caregivers & PARENTS

SPECIAL NEEDS GROUP

We understand that if you have an individual with special needs it can be challenging to be part of a faith community. We want to come along side of you and your family in tangible ways to ensure you feel welcomed, known, and can engage in all that OWCC has to offer. If you're interested in what this could look like for you and your individual with special needs, please fill out the 'Special Needs Connect Form' and I will reach out to you to see what questions you have and help provide next steps. Looking forward to connecting and welcome to OWCC!

Heather Sheese
Special Needs Director

SAY HELLO

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 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!

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