Buddies


Buddies at DUMC designed to provide inclusive support to help your preschooler or elementary aged child with special needs transition smoothly into one of our worship environments with their peers. Our goal is to help them participate at their comfort level, build a community of friends, and learn about the love of Jesus–all with the support of a well-trained Buddy Volunteer.

The Buddies program also provides an engaging and fun sensory room where Buddy Volunteers can take your family member if they need a calming break or would feel more comfortable in a quieter environment. We want to be prepared for your visit, so please fill out the form below and let us know you are joining us on Sunday. We can’t wait to see you!

Tell Us You're Coming

be a buddy volunteer

Buddy volunteers can sign up to serve as much or as little as his/she can. Buddy volunteers must be 9th grade or older OR enrolled in our confirmation program at DUMC. Buddy volunteers must go through an in-person training either in a group setting or one on one with one of our coordinators.  

Volunteer Here

We currently offer Buddies on Sundays during the 9:00 a.m. Modern Service and the 10:00 a.m. Sunday School hour for preschool & elementary aged children.

We can’t wait to meet you! As you pull into the parking lot, you may let a parking attendant know that you are looking for Buddies, and they will lead you to a spot close to the entrance of the Activities Building. If there is no attendant, park as close as you can to the Linda & Wiley Stephens Activity Building. Inside, you will be greeted by several people—let them know you are looking for the Buddies area.

Our Buddies Coordinator will greet you, show you around, and answer any questions before you head to the worship service. We will pair your child or adult with a Buddy Volunteer, who will enjoy getting to know them as they explore and have fun in our room. Depending on their age and comfort level during this first visit, their Buddy Volunteer may also take them to join their preschool or elementary-aged peers.

Yes, we offer programs for families. Our lead pastor hosts a small group for dads of kid with special needs. We're also planning to start a Wednesday night parent group this fall. In addition, we host Night to Shine every February—a prom for individuals with special needs.

Upcoming Events

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HAVE QUESTIONS?

Connect with a member of our buddies team below.