PCBC desires to support every child at every stage with every need, partnering with parents in supporting children with unique needs.
The PCBC Buddy Ministry pairs volunteers with individuals who may need additional support to fully participate in community activities and services. Unlike a special needs ministry, which provides specialized programming specifically for people with disabilities, the Buddy Ministry is an inclusion-focused approach that helps integrate all participants into the main community experience.
In the Buddy Ministry, volunteers (“buddies”) are matched one-on-one with individuals who might benefit from personalized support, companionship, and advocacy. These buddies provide consistent friendship and assistance tailored to the person’s specific needs, enabling them to engage more fully in regular community activities.
What is a Buddy? A Buddy:
- Offers one-to-one support and assistance from an adult on Sunday mornings.
- Provides engagement and support within with classroom.
- Creates a safe and supportive environment.
Key elements of a successful Buddy Ministry include volunteer training, thoughtful matching of buddies with participants, clear communication with families, and ongoing support for the volunteer buddies themselves.
