Compassion Special Needs exists to ensure that all individuals, regardless of ability, can have a life-changing relationship with Jesus. Our purpose is to not only create opportunities for inclusion, but to also create a sense of belonging for all who attend our campuses.

We believe every child can experience Jesus in a personal way, even if they have special needs. Your child is welcome here!

Check-In: 
Register at the Kids’ Ministry registration desk to receive identification tags with an alpha-numeric security code. A matching tag will be for you to keep until it is time for your child to be picked up.

Accommodating Your Child:

On your first visit, please communicate the following:

Communication:

How does the child communicate?
- Are they verbal?
- Do they use sign language?
- Do they use pictures?

Reinforcers:

What are some things your child is interested in?

What motivates your child?
- Helping
- Being told they are doing a good job
- Stickers and other token economy?

What makes them happy?

Do they have a comfort item they need?

Triggers:

What may upset or scare your child?
- Loud music
- Lights out
- Physical touch
- Bright lights

A member of our team will contact you after your child's first visit to complete a brief intake interview so we know how to best accommodate your child.

Your child will then participate in modified programming for two weeks in order for the ministry leader to get to know your child a little better. Once the best environment is determined, your child will either be partnered with a Sidekick, to be integrated into programming with their paired friend or attend a classroom with less transitions, lower student/teacher ratio in a more sensory-friendly environment.

Availability At Your Campus
Compassion Special Needs for kids is offered at the following campuses:
Effingham Campus | Henderson Campus | Midway Campus | East Campus

Since adult classes take place in secure spaces, check-in is handled through the kiosks, and visitors check into programming through the Kids’ welcome desk.

Availability At Your Campus
Compassion Special Needs for kids is offered at the following campuses:
Henderson Campus

Our caring, well-trained volunteers help those with special needs connect with Jesus in a personal way. Dedicated programming, provides a safe, fun environment so participants can grow in their faith, meanwhile others attend regular kids and student programming with one of our “Sidekicks”, or paired friends.

A Sidekick is a friend who provides encouragement and support alongside a person with special needs or behavioral challenges. Also known as a buddy, Sidekicks are volunteers who are here to provide a loving environment for those with special needs.

We understand you may have questions in regards to how we approach special needs at Compassion, so we've laid out a list of frequently asked questions below.

Depending on your campus, Compassion Special Needs is offered for both kids and adults. For the different check-in processes, please reference the age-specific sections above.

You are welcome to come check out a service on your own or stay with your child for their first visit. All participants must be registered at our Kids' Ministry registration desk and obtain authorization.

We are all about family, so no matter how big or small your question or request, our team is always ready to help! Take a moment to fill out the connect card using the button below and we will be in touch.