Special Needs Ministry Coordinator

SPECIAL NEEDS MINISTRY COORDINATOR JOB TITLE

Special Needs Ministry Coordinator

REPORTS TO

Family Ministry Director

HOURS/WEEK

20hrs weekly, part time

FLSA DESIGNATION

Non-exempt

STAFF CATEGORY

Family Ministry

ILLUMINATE'S OVERALL MISSION

We are called to love all people, make disciples, and empower them to be on mission for God.

ILLUMINATE'S OVERALL VISION

Our vision is to be a "city on a hill" where the broken, hurting, and searching are drawn to the light and love of Jesus.

SUMMARY OF POSITION

This role serves children and adults with special needs and their families with a Christ-centered heart, reflecting His love by ensuring each person feels seen, valued, and cared for. The position supports Illuminate's mission to equip and strengthen families, helping them not only endure but thrive in God's grace and purpose. This role ensures that individuals with special needs and their families are fully included in the life of the church and supported in their spiritual growth.

RESPONSIBILITIES

(This role will focus primarily on weekend ministry environments and volunteer team development, with additional responsibilities scaled appropriately to part-time hours.): Recruit, train, schedule, and shepherd a Christ-centered Special Needs volunteer team while intentionally building and developing leaders through relationships, encouragement, and spiritual growth. Equip volunteers in ministry vision, policies, procedures, and best practices for inclusive and developmentally appropriate care Partner with Kids, Student, and other ministry leaders to create and maintain inclusive environments across all areas of the church Develop and adapt gospel-centered lessons and environments to meet a variety of needs and abilities Provide leadership and oversight for the buddy program and classroom support strategies Communicate vision, expectations, and updates clearly with volunteers, leaders, and families Minister to families and caregivers through relationship-building, support, and discipleship opportunities Plan and execute key ministry events, including bi-annual respite events and inclusive VBS experiences Ensure meaningful inclusion of individuals with special needs in weekend services, programs, and church-wide events Engage in strategic community outreach efforts to build awareness and connect with families who could benefit from the ministry Demonstrate strong organizational, problem-solving, and leadership skills in dynamic environments Be present and engaged during weekend services and key church events Manage multiple environments and responsibilities with excellence Maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with care

SUCCESS OUTCOMES

This role will be considered successful when the following outcomes are consistently demonstrated: Consistent volunteer coverage across all special needs environments, especially weekend services and key events Strong engagement, trust, and retention among families participating in the ministry Safe, structured, Christ-centered, and inclusive environments across age groups and ministry settings Effective planning and execution of key ministry events, including respite events and VBS inclusion Volunteers feel equipped, encouraged, and spiritually supported in their roles

QUALIFICATIONS

Education & Experience Minimum 2-3 years of experience working with individuals with special needs (church, school, nonprofit, or therapeutic setting) Experience in volunteer leadership, team development, or ministry coordination strongly preferred Knowledge & Skills Working knowledge of a range of disabilities (e.g., autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, sensory processing, developmental delays, physical disabilities) Ability to develop and implement individualized support strategies and inclusive environments Strong organizational and administrative skills with attention to detail Effective communication skills with both children and adults, including parents/caregivers Ability to train, equip, and lead volunteers with varying levels of experience Basic understanding of safety protocols, behavior management, and de-escalation techniques Preferred (but not required) Certifications or additional training in special needs care, behavioral therapy, or inclusion practices Experience building or growing a special needs ministry Familiarity with church management systems and volunteer scheduling tools

PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCIES

Maintains strict confidentiality and sound judgement when handling sensitive information related to church operations, staff, and congregants. Demonstrates strong verbal and written communication skills. Works effectively in a team-oriented environment, collaborating with staff, volunteers, and ministry leaders. Displays initiative, reliability, and strong organizational skills. Able to manage multiple responsibilities while maintaining attention to detail and professionalism. Functions effectively both behind the scenes and in public-facing situations, depending on ministry needs.

SPIRITUAL & CHARACTER QUALIFICATIONS A

committed follower of Jesus Christ whose life reflects biblical character and aligns with Illuminate Community Church's Statement of Faith, Position Statements and Staff Handbook. Demonstrates a high level of personal and professional integrity, striving to live above reproach in both personal life and ministry responsibilities. Supports and promotes a Christ-centered work environment, contributing positively to staff unity and the mission of the church. Serves as a Christlike example to the church body, fellow staff and the broader community through conduct, attitude, and relationships. Demonstrates humility, teachability, and a servant-hearted approach to ministry.

ADDITIONAL EXPECTATIONS

Supports and participates in the overall ministry and mission of Illuminate Community Church. Attends required staff meetings and church events (including Easter and Christmas) as requested. Performs other duties as assigned to support the effectiveness of the ministry and staff team.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Includes active engagement with children and adults, which may involve standing, walking, assisting individuals, and occasional lifting of 20 pounds or more.