Special Needs Ministry

November Is Family Caregiver Awareness Month

November Is Family Caregiver Awareness Month

November is Caregiver Awareness Month. As someone who became one of my dad’s caregivers before I started school, I grew up thinking everyone in the world was aware of caregivers and caregiving. As a young adult my husband and I cared for a son born with a life-threatening medical condition, and his typical sibling. As members of the sandwich generation, my brother, sister, and I cared for our mother for 15 years after she was diagnosed with dementia. This explains why, when I first heard that November is Caregiver Awareness Month, I was incredulous, and I still am. 

A Conversation with Lauren Hickman from Hope Allen Center: Podcast EP 125

A Conversation with Lauren Hickman from Hope Allen Center: Podcast EP 125

In this episode, Lauren Hickman shares her personal journey and calling to disability ministry, describing how God has guided her every step of the way to serve families impacted by disability.

Summer Disability Ministry Recap: Podcast EP 111

Summer Disability Ministry Recap: Podcast EP 111

Sandra Peoples talks with Julie Hernandez, the Disability Ministry Director at her. They discuss the good and the challenging parts of their summer activities in Disability Ministry.

Accessible Bible Story Instruction with Cortney Jenkins and Laura Deeken: Podcast EP 107

Accessible Bible Story Instruction with Cortney Jenkins and Laura Deeken: Podcast EP 107

One of the biggest challenges in inclusive ministry is meeting the needs of diverse learners. Today on the podcast, Sandra interviews Cortney Jenkins from Awe & Wonder and Laura Deeken from The Adapted Word about easy ways to make our lessons more accessible and about the resources they provide to help support every student in your ministry. 

Book Club Chat Pt. 2 with Steve Grcevich & Lamar Hardwick: Podcast Episode 102

Book Club Chat Pt. 2 with Steve Grcevich & Lamar Hardwick: Podcast Episode 102

Dr. Steve Grcevich sits down and interviews Dr. Lamar Hardwick on his new book How Ableism Fuels Racism. This is Part 2 of a 3-part series!

The Power of Perspective and Flexibility in Ministry: Podcast Episode 090

The Power of Perspective and Flexibility in Ministry: Podcast Episode 090

In this week’s episode, Garett reflects on how life experiences shape our ministry perspectives while looking at the importance of being flexible in ministry with the goal of reaching more people with the hope of Jesus. He encourages us consider and embrace a ministry approach similar to that of the four friends who found a way to take their paralyzed friend to Jesus rather than allowing our preferences to dictate how we operate our churches.

Resolving to Experience God’s Blessings in the New Year : Podcast Episode 081

Resolving to Experience God’s Blessings in the New Year : Podcast Episode 081

In this week’s episode, Garett helps us close the book on 2023 and open the door on 2024 by reflecting on the year that was, by looking at God’s Word for guidance on where we’re going in the year ahead and sharing some practical action points as we seek to faithfully follow the Holy Spirit in the new year.

Five Things to Try When You're Bummed Out or Burned Out in Disability Ministry: Podcast Episode 079

Five Things to Try When You're Bummed Out or Burned Out in Disability Ministry: Podcast Episode 079

Have you ever planned an event and it wasn’t the success you thought it would be? Or maybe you are feeling overwhelmed by your to-do list even though it’s work that God has called you to? Beth has five strategies to share that just might help if you are in a season of being bummed out or burned out. She will provide words of encouragement and some practical steps to get you back on track and, hopefully, in a healthy and productive place.

Different, Not Harder

Different, Not Harder

"Different, not harder." That was the powerful takeaway from a dear friend who has spoken with Joanna about special needs ministry for years. This leads her to the question: are we fighting for pity or equality?

What if true equality starts with finding common ground?