Church Support

Creating a Church Where Everyone Belongs

Creating a Church Where Everyone Belongs

It’s no surprise that I eventually became a teacher, working in inclusive classrooms where children with diverse abilities learned side by side. Later, I became a mom, got deeply connected to my church, and—as often happens when you volunteer a lot—joined the staff. I served as a preschool leader, children’s pastor, and multi-campus ministry leader. I’ve had so many wonderful days leading kids, parents, and volunteers. But one of the hardest days came not as a leader but as a church attendee.

Help for Planning 2025: Podcast EP 135

 Help for Planning 2025: Podcast EP 135

It’s February, and we’ve all somewhat settled into 2025 and are ready to look ahead to what the year will bring. To help you prepare for your church’s steps of accessibility and inclusive events, we’ve created a Ministry Planning Calendar! In this episode, Sandra Peoples will walk you through ideas for planning ahead and praying for what God will do in 2025.

Supporting Families Affected by Disability with Rachael VerMeulen from A Little Extra Love: Podcast EP 134

Supporting Families Affected by Disability with Rachael VerMeulen from A Little Extra Love: Podcast EP 134

Elaina Marchenko sits down with Rachael VerMeulen from A Little Extra Love Ministries to talk about the reality for families affected by special needs, the need for disability support in Colorado, and what Rachael will be sharing at Disability & the Church Conference.

3 Ways to Make Your Church More Welcoming for Neurodivergent Kids

3 Ways to Make Your Church More Welcoming for Neurodivergent Kids

The church is a place for everyone, yet for many families with neurodivergent children, attending church events or services can be a challenging experience. Children with sensory and communication differences may need unique accommodations to feel comfortable, included, and valued. This season, as your church plans special services and activities, consider these three simple yet impactful ways to create a more welcoming environment for neurodivergent kids and their families.

Night to Shine, What You Need to Know: Podcast EP 133

Night to Shine, What You Need to Know: Podcast EP 133

Larah Roberts sits down with Beth Golik and talks about the annual Night to Shine Event sponsored by the Tim Tebow Foundation. Beth gives a peek into what the event looks like and also shares how your church can prepare and host one of these events in your city!

Your Ministry Wins from 2024 & Ministry Opportunities in 2025: Podcast EP 131

Your Ministry Wins from 2024 & Ministry Opportunities in 2025: Podcast EP 131

Sandra Peoples shares praise reports from churches across the country as we celebrate what God is doing through accessible churches. She also shares the biggest challenges churches say they are facing in the new year and lists resources to help with each challenge. 

Including Special-Needs Families in Your Church's Christmas Activities: EP 129

Including Special-Needs Families in Your Church's Christmas Activities: EP 129

Sandra Peoples grew up with a sister with Down syndrome and now has a teenager with level 3 autism, so she knows how different the holidays can feel for a family like hers. But they don't have to feel different at church! With a few steps of consideration, she shares how families can feel included and valued. Let's make sure special-needs families can hear the message of hope this Christmas!

Mental Illness and How it Draws Us Closer to God with Sergei Marchenko: Podcast EP 127

Mental Illness and How it Draws Us Closer to God with Sergei Marchenko: Podcast EP 127

Elaina sits down with Pastor Sergei Marchenko to discuss his experience with mental illness both in his home and church. Pastor Sergei shares hope for the hurting and discussed the importance of mental health awareness in the church, and from the pulpit.

How to Care for Caregiving Families with Lisa Jamieson: Podcast Ep 126

How to Care for Caregiving Families with Lisa Jamieson: Podcast Ep 126

Elaina sits down and talks with Lisa Jamieson from Walk Right In Ministries about family caregivers, the holidays, and ways the church can better support them.

Strategies for Small and Normative Sized Churches with Sandra Peoples: Podcast EP 124

Strategies for Small and Normative Sized Churches with Sandra Peoples: Podcast EP 124

 In today’s episode, Sandra talks about the challenges small to normative-sized churches face in disability ministry and shares how the churches she’s been a part of have overcome these challenges.