by Meaghan Wall, coordinator of special needs

Stonebriar's Special Needs ministry goes beyond Sunday mornings, ministering to children, adults, and families on a continual basis through activities and events including FunZone, a monthly respite program for families of special needs children. During fall and spring, FunZone averaged 40 children each evening. One family, the Hornoks, are thankful for this program. "All three of our kids loved FunZone so much that they are begging to go each month. It is so wonderful to be able to have some time to ourselves," said Julie Hornok, mother of a kindergartener with special needs. "We are actually able to relax because we know our children are well cared for and are having a fun time."
 
FunZone is offered September through May, the second Saturday of every month from 6 to 10 p.m. This ministry is available to regular SCC attendees. Parents of special needs children are allowed to drop off their special needs children and siblings at the church at no cost. Parents then have extra time on their own while Stonebriar staff and volunteers spend time with the children engaging in crafts, games, movies, and special events. This past year, special activities included the Mosaic Art Factory and a petting zoo.
 
FunZone strives to provide a one-on-one ratio for special needs children, and no more than a two-on-one ratio for siblings.

If you would like to volunteer in the area of special needs weekly on Sundays or for FunZone in the fall, please e-mail serving@stonebriar.org. Find out more about our Special Needs ministry.