Serving and Embracing Neurodiversity*

We Are God’s Masterpiece

Our desire is that every child who comes to EastLake Church will have an awesome experience and connect with Jesus. That goal remains the same for children facing unique challenges and requiring additional support.

Hand Over Hand is available to families with children from K through 12th grade needing assistance to fully participate and connect in our children’s and youth programs.

After meeting with the family to determine the best way to meet their individual needs, caring volunteers provide a 1:1 partnership with the child during regular service times. This allows parents and families to attend services knowing that their child is being cared for in a loving environment and in a way that meets their unique needs.

* Hand Over Hand is a ministry for neurodiverse children and students who can benefit from additional support so that they and their families can fully enjoy the ministry and service offerings at EastLake Church. (Please note that neurodiversity is a term used to describe a variety of developmental conditions that have commonly been described in the past as “special needs”. We have chosen to utilize the terms “neurodivergent” and “neurodiverse” to better reflect current practices and terminology in the field.)

What does a Hand Over Hand volunteer do?

Volunteers offer physical assistance, emotional support, behavioral intervention, and facilitate effective communication. This allows the child to participate in their least restrictive environment.

Can anyone use the Hand Over Hand Ministry?

This ministry is available to all families who regularly attend Eastlake Church. We do ask that you select a specific service time you will attend regularly. This enables your child and his or her Hand Over Hand volunteer to build a trusting and meaningful relationship.

How do I get connected with a Hand Over Hand volunteer?

To enroll your child or to get more information, email [email protected].

How long does the process take?

As soon as we hear from you, we will begin the process of matching your child with a caring volunteer. This may take a little time, but we will work with you to find the right person for your child. Our goal is to create community, embrace parent partnerships and build lasting friendships with families.

Can my child still attend their program without a Hand Over Hand volunteer?

If, for a period of time, your child does not have an assigned Hand Over Hand volunteer, he or she can still attend their program. Please understand that under certain circumstances, where safety is a concern, this may require director approval. For communication purposes, we require an email, phone number, and for parents to keep us updated on any changes.

Once a volunteer is assigned to your child, we encourage you and the volunteer to communicate directly. In order to avoid disappointment and maintain a high level of courtesy and reliability on both ends, we ask for the parent to contact HOH immediately if they are unable to attend their regular weekly service.

What is the screening for the Hand Over Hand volunteer?

We use the same application and detailed background check that applies to all EastLake Church Children’s Ministry volunteers, with the addition of a personal interview with the program director.

What is the training for volunteers?

Some of the volunteers have professional training or a background in special education, but it is not required. Peer buddies create naturalistic modeling opportunities, increase social-emotional skills, and facilitate friendships. However, you are the best person to teach the volunteer how to work with your child. We are excited to see your child learn, grow, and experience God’s love through this program. Our hope is that you will be able to participate and enjoy church service knowing that your child is well cared for.

Become A Hand Over Hand Volunteer

Do you have a love for children, a desire to be used in bringing them to Christ, and a willingness to learn and grow as you serve the child and their family? No experience is necessary—we will train and give you the tools needed to serve our Hand Over Hand families. We encourage you to experience a new level of love, joy and fulfillment as you impact the lives of others for a lifetime.

If you are interested in becoming a Hand Over Hand volunteer, we can be reached as follows:

Instagram: @handoverhandelc



Get Connected with Hand-Over-Hand