The Gathering is taking intentional steps to be a welcoming and accessible community for individuals with disabilities and their families.

If you have a child who requires specialized support in our children’s ministry, please fill out the Kids Special Support Form to let us know how we can ensure they have a great experience in our classrooms! We are currently offering support such as one-to-one buddies, sensory tools, adapted activities, and more.

In addition to our buddy program, here are some things happening with disability inclusion and accessibility at the Gathering:

• Disability inclusive training for staff and volunteers
• Theology that honors disabled individuals as image bearers
• Periodic wellness groups for caregivers
• “Sensory friendly” time offered at family events
• Quarterly Respite nights
• Sensory tools available (fidgets, noise-cancelling headphones, ear plugs)
• Collaboration with Dr. Doc Hunsley of SOAR Special Needs Ministries

When your child needs specialized support, it can be hard to get time to yourself.

For families who have a child with special needs, we host quarterly Respite Events, a free night of childcare for your child with special needs and their siblings. Kids get to have a fun-filled evening of pizza, bounce house, movie, and more while parents get a much needed night off!

Our volunteers are background-checked, and we have a team of both medical and educational professionals on site.

Disability Inclusion Director

Ellie Sanazaro is a former public educator, disability advocate, and mom to a son with Down syndrome and hearing loss.

If you’d like to talk to someone about your child’s unique needs, please email Ellie Sanazaro at ellie.sanazaro@gatheringnow.org.