According to the 2000 U.S. Census, an estimated 500,000 people in Arkansas have one or more disabilities. When this was broken down to reflect each community, it was estimated that between 10 and 20 percent of each community had some sort of disability. However, only a limited number of these and most of those are physically handicapped, currently attend church.

One of the reasons they do not attend church is that many churches are not user friendly for people with disabilities or some sort of handicap, or the Sunday School and worship service is not equipped for people with special needs.  Often church facilities are not handicap-accessible for those who are physically challenged or don't have classes available for those who have a different disability.

The Inclusion Ministries Strategist can assist you in providing resources that will help churches to reach out in compassion to people with special needs.

Areas of Special Needs:

Developmentally Disabled:
Disabilities are usually present from birth and delay or prevent normal development, such as mental retardation or autism.    

ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder):
Children and adults with ADHD typically exhibit poor concentration, impulsiveness, and hyperactivity that are inappropriate for their age.   

Autism/Spectrum Disorder:
Autism is a brain disorder that can often interfere with a person's ability to communicate with and relate to others.

Hearing Impaired/ Deaf/ Hard of Hearing:
A person who is hard-of-hearing is one who can generally benefit with the use of a hearing aid.
Total deafness describes a person who would not benefit from a hearing device but communicates through sign language.   

Mental Illness:
Merriam-Webster defines mental health as "A state of emotional and psychological well-being in which an individual is able to use his or her cognitive and emotional capabilities, function in society, and meet the ordinary demands of everyday life."   

Blind/Visually Impaired:
Individuals can learn through non-visual media, audiobooks, CDs, and other materials. 

Additional Information and ideas on how to minister to people with special needs can be obtained from Chris Copeland at 800.838.2272, ext. 5249 (toll-free in Ark.) or 501.376.4791, ext. 5249.