West Side is a church for EVERYONE! Our Buddies Ministry steps into the gap on Sundays to provide inclusion for those with special needs. Every week, participants in the Buddies Ministry are matched with a consistent, one-on-one "Buddy." These trained and background-checked volunteers create space for people of all abilities, regardless of age, to fully experience age-appropriate worship at West Side.

Need a Buddy? Be a Buddy

West Side is a church for EVERYONE! Our Buddies Ministry steps into the gap on Sundays to provide inclusion for those with special needs. Every week, participants in the Buddies Ministry are matched with a consistent, one-on-one "Buddy." These trained and background-checked volunteers create space for people of all abilities, regardless of age, to fully experience age-appropriate worship at West Side.

Need a buddy?

Buddies

We could all use a good friend. And that couldn't be more true for kids and adults facing unique challenges and needs. Do you care for someone with special needs? Our Buddies Ministry steps into the gap on Sundays to provide inclusion for those with special needs.

Buddies for Kids and Students Buddies for Adults

Our youngest, Hazel, has Down syndrome. Making sure she is fully included with her peers is incredibly important to us. The Buddies Ministry at West Side allows Hazel to get the support she needs while having fun and learning about Jesus right alongside her friends!" - Kendahl

Be a buddy

Buddies

Volunteering on Sunday mornings as a Buddy for an adult with special needs is a great way to make a positive impact on the lives of others. As a Buddy, you’ll help create a positive worship experience for your participant and their family. Individuals with special needs who are part of our Buddies Program can worship in one of three spaces on Sunday mornings.

  • Worship Center
    Our guests with special needs are welcome to enjoy this larger worship environment, which includes bright lights and louder music. This space can be utilized both with or without a designated volunteer Buddy.

  • Family Seating
    If a more sensory-friendly environment is needed during the service, Buddies will help participants navigate to our Family Seating Areas throughout the concourse. Worship will stream live on TVs in each of these spaces.
     
  • Buddies Worship Room
    For those with more unique sensory needs, a Buddies Worship Room is available upon request during the 11:00 am service. This room is ideal for learning about Jesus while enjoying conversation, making new friends and giving space to move around.

Ready to make a difference in the life of someone with special needs?

Volunteer