One Body

One Body, One God 

One Body is Lutheran Church of Hope’s Special Needs Ministry for families and individuals affected by special needs. We believe everyone deserves the opportunity to experience and learn about the love of God. We seek to provide inclusive opportunities for all to learn, worship, volunteer, and connect with their peers. 
 
At Hope West Des Moines, we have staff who collaborate with families to choose appropriate programming for children and students who have special needs in behavior, physical, cognitive or medical areas. Our goal is to ensure children and students can remain independent and included in as much programming as possible. To do this, a team member might “check in” with a child or student and/or provide additional coaching to the group leader. In other instances, a volunteer may be assigned to work specifically with a child or student, either in the small group setting as a buddy, or in a separate classroom with adapted lessons. 

One Body Special Needs volunteers and students smiling as a group

One Body Schedule

One Body HopeKids is available Sundays at 9:30 & 11:00 am for age 3 – grade 5. One Body Student Ministry (PowerLife and Ignition) is available on Wednesdays from 6:00-7:15 pm for grades 6-12. 
 
One Body is also available during all VBS sessions in July. If support is needed and a volunteer is available, buddies are provided to experience VBS with children who have special needs. The One Body coordinator works with families ahead of time to help best support their student.  
 
Special events and activities are also planned regularly to help families connect and find fellowship. We’re here to support the entire family and make church as easy and accessible as possible for everyone! 

One Body Adult Bible Study

One Body is also available for adults! Hope West Des Moines offers a One Body Adult Bible Study on Thursdays from 7:00-7:45 pm for individuals ages 18 and older. Please reach out to [email protected] for more information. 

One Body Online Parent Support Group

This support group is a safe place for parents and families affected by special needs to come together and get much-needed information and emotional support. Please email Jill Smith to register.
 
Meets quarterly on Mondays on Oct. 14, 2024; and Jan. 13, April 14, July 14 & Oct. 13, 2025, from 8:00-9:00 pm

Looking to Volunteer With One Body?

If you have a heart for helping out with One Body, it’s easy to sign up to volunteer! There are multiple ways to get involved in the One Body Special Needs Ministry. It’s rewarding and collaborative, and we’ll be there with you to offer strategies and help. Let us know you’re interested! 

Contact Us

JillSmith

Jill Smith