Special Needs

A space where people with diverse abilities can find a place to belong.

We seek to foster an appreciation of individuals with special needs as indispensable members of the Body of Christ who can experience meaningful participation in all aspects of Church life.Our vision is to create a community of Christ followers with diverse abilities who live and love like Jesus.

Please connect with us at specialministries@scottsdalebible.com or call 480.824.7200 if you have questions about Special Ministries.

Carolyn Meyers

Central Special Ministries Director

New to Special Needs?

Meet us at the Discovery Kids or our campus Welcome Desk when you arrive and someone will help you or your child get settled and feel at home!

Community forAll Ages

Weekly Gatherings

  • Discovery Kids Unlimited

    Approximate ages: 3-13 years old

    Sundays | 9 & 11am
    Cactus, Fountain Hills, North Ridge, Shea
    Sundays | 4pm | Cactus

    Our team works with parents to accommodate the unique challenges of each child (ages 3-13) with special needs. Some may attend the regular Discovery Kids program paired with a buddy who offers support and encouragement, while others may need the comfort of a separate space to learn the Bible story, hear calmer music, and play with multi-sensory toys.

  • YTH Unlimited

    Approximate ages: 13-21 years old

    Sundays | 11am | Shea
    Tuesdays | 6:30-8pm | Shea

    YTH Unlimited (ages 13-21) is designed for those currently in Jr. High, High School, or vocational training. Our teens meet to enjoy time with friends, engage in relevant discussion around a Bible lesson, and learn more about authentic faith.

  • Adult Special Ministries

    Approximate ages: 21+

    Sundays | 9am | Shea
    Mondays | 7-8:30pm | Cactus
    Tuesdays | 6:30-8pm | Shea

    Our adult friends (ages 21+) enjoy community at our Shea and Cactus campuses. The Shea Sunday morning class features a creative chronological study of the Bible in three years, worship music, prayer, and fellowship. Weeknight meetings at Cactus (Monday) and Shea (Tuesday) feature lessons that encourage practical Christian living.

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Take a Look at Our Events

Our Special Ministries events are packed with fun, joy, and a lot of love.  Everyone is welcome to join us.  If you would like information about our upcoming events, please reach out to us at specialministries@scottsdalebible.com

Programs

We work with our community partners to host special programs for the benefit of our community. Please contact our community partners directly for more information.

Whispering Hope Ranch

The mission of Whispering Hope Ranch Foundation is to offer children with special needs and their families a rustic Arizona ranch style camp and retreat experience. These programs are designed to foster nurturing interactions between campers and the animals residing at the ranch.

 

Joni and Friends

Joni and Friends is the largest disability-related ministry effort in the world. They equip local churches to meet the spiritual and practical needs of those affected by disabilities. Joni and Friends mobilize and equip local congregations to reach out to people affected by disability. Our area ministry serves alongside a network of volunteers and churches in communities nationwide.

Resources

Our hope is that you enjoy a wonderful experience worshipping with us. Below are some helps we have available if you need them:

Hearing and visually impaired persons

  • FM Hearing Receiver System in Worship Center: Pick up equipment at the Welcome desk

  • Words to worship songs and Scripture can be viewed on large screens during each worship service at all campuses

Learn more about the special needs community

  • We have an index of useful special needs support organizations that provide valuable information and resources on a variety of topics. View our list of resources.

Discover Your Place in Special Ministries!

We have several ways to serve within our Special Needs ministry. You can volunteer as a buddy to a child who needs support, provide assistance and care as needed during our programs, help with teaching if you are gifted in that area, or assist with planning, decorating, set up and other areas. Contact us to learn more about available opportunities!

Safe & Secure

All volunteers in Special Needs are background and reference checked. They are also fully trained in emergency procedures and abide by the rule of three, ensuring each child is always with a group of three or more people. Security cameras throughout our buildings and gated playgrounds provide added security for your children while they are on our campuses.