Hand in Hand exists to come alongside individuals and families touched by disability to facilitate their participation in the ministries of First Presbyterian Church and to minister to them with the love of Christ and the hope of his kingdom. We are committed not to just serve these individuals, but to equip them as they are vital members of the body of Christ. We offer several programs to support individuals with disabilities and to support their families.
How to Connect
We would love to get to know you or the individual you care for and any unique needs you may have. Please help us by answering this short questionnaire to let us know how we can serve you. None of the information will be shared with anyone without your permission. Someone will follow up with you within the week.
Buddy Program
Our Buddy program provides adult or peer buddies to assist those with disabilities no matter their age. Buddies accompany children (birth – grade 12) in their classroom or in the Hand in Hand sensory room during the worship service, Sunday school, and special events. Buddies are also available to accompany adults with disabilities in the sensory room.
Family Support
Families who are touched by disability often have ongoing, unique challenges. We offer a G3 support group, Not Alone, for Hand in Hand families. The group meets throughout the year, and the purpose is to experience community with others who find themselves on the same journey of caring for individuals impacted by disabilities. Contact Susie Lovekamp to learn more.
Special Events
Periodically we host respite nights, family fellowships, and workshops designed to give families a break and provide fellowship and encouragement.
Opportunities to Serve
As we welcome people with disabilities and their families into our church, we want to build relationships with them and identify how we may come alongside them to help facilitate their participation in the ministries at First Presbyterian Church. Volunteers are needed to serve these families and share the love and hope of Jesus. Consider serving in one of the following ways. Training is provided.
Hand in Hand Buddy
Buddies assist those with disabilities no matter their age. Buddies accompany children (birth – grade 12) in their classroom or in the Hand in Hand sensory room during the worship service, Sunday school, and special events and are also available to accompany adults with disabilities in the sensory room.
Hand in Hand Event Buddy
Are you interested in being a Buddy, but not able to commit to Sunday mornings? We have events throughout the year where we need volunteers to be a Buddy and to care for siblings. At these events, there are trained volunteers, but you will get to work with the Hand in Hand participants and their siblings. Specifically, Event Buddies are needed one Sunday evening per month and occasionally on a Saturday. You do not have to commit for every Sunday evening, but your help is appreciated for as many nights as you are available.
Staff Contact
Susie Lovekamp, Hand in Hand Ministry Director
Bri Rowley, Hand in Hand Buddy Coordinator