Tools for the journey.

The Buddy Ministry Manual

I created this Buddy Ministry Manual first and foremost as a practical training resource for churches to use when preparing volunteers to serve as buddies to children and individuals with disabilities.

Many people are willing to serve, but willingness doesn't always mean they feel prepared. Volunteers may wonder: What do I do if someone becomes overwhelmed? How do I respond to a behavior I don't understand? What if they don't communicate with words? How much should I help, and when should I step back?

This manual is designed to help answer those questions and give churches a starting point for training volunteers so they can serve with greater understanding and confidence.

It isn't meant to be a one-size-fits-all program. Every person is different, every family is different, and every church has different resources. The concepts can be used by a small church just beginning a buddy ministry or by a larger church looking to strengthen the training it already provides.

Much of what I've included comes from years of ministry experience, as well as what I've learned from families, volunteers, and individuals with disabilities. The training covers practical areas such as sensory needs, communication, behaviors, recognizing when someone may be overwhelmed, and knowing how to come alongside the person you're serving.

Most importantly, I want volunteers to understand that being a buddy is about much more than keeping someone safe or helping them make it through a church service. A buddy has the opportunity to help an individual participate, build relationships, learn about Jesus, and know that they are a valued part of the church.

Volunteers don't need to know everything about disabilities before they begin. They need good training, a willingness to learn, and someone to help prepare them for the people they will serve.

My hope is that this manual can help churches provide that training.