The Avenue
The Avenue is our volunteer led special needs ministry, designed to support individuals with physical, intellectual, or developmental disabilities and their families.
A Place to belong
We offer personalized support through our Sunday buddy program and year-round connection opportunities. Whether it’s partnering with a child in their classroom or creating sensory-friendly spaces for adults, we work with families to create inclusive environments where everyone can encounter God’s love.
how we live out discovery’s values
Worship in Action
We help children connect with God through creative, engaging, and accessible worship experiences.
We stand for truth, practice justice, and celebrate the unique ways God has made each child.
Community
We create spaces where all are welcome.
We build relationships through time together—moving toward one another in love, patience, and grace.
Spiritual Growth
We guide and grow in discipleship together.
We walk with families in seasons of both celebration and lament.
We model obedience to God through service and love.
What to Expect
Buddy Program
One-on-one support for children during services
Customized Class Placement
We’ll work with you to find the best space for your child
The avenue room
A safe and sensory-friendly environment for children who need a break from classroom settings
annual events
Special Needs Egg Hunt
Every spring, Discovery Church hosts a sensory-friendly Egg Hunt designed specifically for children with special needs. From auditory-sensitive zones to wheelchair-accessible areas, we thoughtfully create a variety of egg hunt experiences so every child can fully participate and feel celebrated. It’s a joyful, welcoming event where families can enjoy the fun together in a supportive environment.
Christmas Karaoke Party
Join us for a joyful night of celebration at the annual Christmas & New Year’s Karaoke Party for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities—hosted by Discovery Church and Crossroads Church. This festive evening features dinner, games, cookie decorating, crafts, a photo booth, and of course, plenty of karaoke! We’ll wrap up the fun with a special New Year’s countdown. It’s a night full of laughter, community, and unforgettable memories.
Serving with The Avenue is more than helping—it’s stepping into a space where dignity, reciprocity, and solidarity come to life. Whether you’re paired with a child on Sunday morning through our buddy system or helping create welcoming moments at one of our annual events, your presence makes a meaningful impact. Volunteers not only support individuals with special needs but also grow personally as they witness the beauty of a truly inclusive church family. If you have a heart for connection and a willingness to learn, we’d love to explore a great fit with you.
volunteer
Faqs
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Email Jen Webster, Associate Director of Community Development
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As a volunteer-led ministry, we do our best, in partnership with families, to provide thoughtful accommodations so that each child can fully participate in church life—including classes, serving, and special events.
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Our volunteers are background checked, interviewed, and receive one to one training specific to each child, Annually, we participate in the Children's Ministry volunteer training with a special break out for our special needs ministry. Please remember that the Discovery Special Needs Ministry is led by a team of dedicated volunteers, not licensed therapists or special education professionals. We do our best, in partnership with families, to provide thoughtful accommodations so that each child can fully participate in church life—including classes, serving, and special events.
