MDUMC Special Needs Ministry
Creating Space for Everyone to Worship, Grow, and Serve.
MDUMC Special Needs Ministry
MDUMC welcomes persons of all abilities to all church gatherings. We offer fully accessible campuses in both of our locations. Our Special Needs Council works to remove barriers to participation in a full life of faith, including worship, study, fellowship, service, and leadership.
Our Mission
To minister to individuals with special needs and their families or caregivers, to educate church members about the nature of various kinds of special needs, and to effect change in attitudes, programs, communication, and accessibility so that all will feel welcome at MDUMC.
Intermission Sign Up
Join us for Intermission, a free respite program for children, teens, and adults with special needs (ages 4+).
Teens/Adults | 9-11:30 AM | West Campus - The Refuge
Join us for Intermission, a free respite program for special needs teens and adults (13+). Teens/adults enjoy bingo, arcade games, music, and being in a community with a 1:3 ratio.
Upcoming Dates
Saturday, January 9 | Register Participant or Register to Volunteer
Saturday, March 13 | Register Participant or Register to Volunteer
Kids | 9-11:30 AM | West Campus - The Journey
Join us for Intermission, a free respite program for children with special needs (ages 4-12). Children will explore the indoor playground, sensory play, and themed activities in a 1:1 ratio.
Upcoming Dates:
Saturday, December 12 | Register Participant or Register to Volunteer
Saturday, February 13 | Register Participant or Register to Volunteer
Saturday, April 10 | Register Participant or Register to Volunteer
Important Upcoming Dates:
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Registration opens ONLINE February 1, 2027 and closes March 1, 2027, or when all spots are filled.
Location | Main Campus - Field
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Registration opens ONLINE March 29, 2027.
Location | West Campus - The Journey
Find Your Place to Connect, Grow & Belong.
At MDUMC, our Special Needs Ministry offers a variety of groups and opportunities designed to help individuals and families find community, build relationships, and grow in faith. Whether you're looking for a place to connect or an opportunity to volunteer, we invite you to explore the groups below and find the best fit for you and your family.
Sunday Buddies
Sunday Buddies is an inclusive ministry program that provides individualized 1:1 support for children with special needs during Sunday services. Trained volunteers are paired with each child to support participation, engagement, and safety. Adaptive Bible lessons, visual supports, sensory-friendly activities, and hands-on learning are used to meet each child at their individual developmental and communication level.
Register below to become a part of our Sunday Buddies Program and we will reach back out to you.
JOY Group
JOY Group is a bimonthly inclusive gathering for adults with IDD that creates opportunities for faith, fellowship, social connection, and fun. Participants enjoy engaging activities while building friendships and a sense of community and belonging.
For individual support or to learn more about our JOY group, please contact Rachael Walker at RachaelWalker@mdumc.org.
Event Recaps
GAME CHANGERS 2026
Hosted by the MDUMC Special Needs Ministry, this joyful event brings kids of all abilities together for an afternoon of baseball, celebration, and pure fun. Children with special needs will be paired with buddies on the field, creating a supportive, encouraging, and memorable experience for everyone involved.
Game Changers 2027 will be held on April 4th.
GOD’S LOVE 2026
God’s Love: Strength in Faith was a meaningful evening of faith, fellowship, and community at MDUMC. Through the stories shared by the Harris and Agar families, we were reminded of the strength found in faith, the importance of connection, and the beauty of a community that embraces every ability. The evening also highlighted the impact of Special Cheers and Camp Blessing, celebrating the many ways individuals and families are supported, encouraged, and loved. Thank you to everyone who joined us and continues to make our Special Needs Ministry a place where all can belong, grow, and thrive.
SOCIAL MEDIA
