JCM program connects with group homes post-COVID for high engagement
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” (Jeremiah 29:11)
God has a plan for us and uses us to carry out his will. Often his plans are bigger, bolder, and better than anything we could ever imagine.
The Jesus Cares Ministries (JCM) program at King of Kings Lutheran Church in Maitland, Florida, is a prime example of this. Church members formed an evangelism team in 2019. Lisa Gumm, now their JCM Coordinator, was excited about the ministry for a personal reason.
“It’s near and dear to my heart, because my aunt Karen has special needs and is in a group home in Michigan,” Lisa explained. “While she can get to church sometimes, I’m sure she would love something like this!”
As the COVID-19 pandemic surged, it wasn’t the ideal time to begin a new outreach program, especially to a potentially vulnerable population. A year later, in March 2021, the team resumed.
“We were on the path to get going,” explained Lisa Gumm, JCM Coordinator. “The Lord and COVID had other plans.”
Pastor Joel visited, and program organizers began reaching out to make connections with potential program participants. Ultimately, the group compiled an email list for several local group homes.
Organizers emailed those on their list explaining the basics of a JCM program to see if there was an interest. They heard back from nine! This prompted site visits to identify the type of interest and how to meet each home’s needs.
“Our first group showed up 30 minutes early. Our volunteers stepped up and helped people out of the vans,” Lisa said, “We told our volunteers to ‘adopt’ a group of 2-3 people as they came in, take them into the sanctuary, sit with them, talk with them, and worship with them. Our youngest volunteers handed out instruments.”
Once everyone was ready to go and in the sanctuary, Pastor Joel led the first service. Following the service, everyone enjoyed snack and craft time in the lobby area.
“Our ministry hosts informational guides on the steps to take when starting a JCM. This program is a great real-life example,” explained Pastor Joel. “It doesn’t matter that it took longer than expected due to COVID. When an individual with special needs can experience God’s love and hear the Gospel in a way designed for them, that’s extraordinary.”
JCM offers a wide range of resources for programs of all types, including those that are brand new, and those looking to expand or offer more. View our resources here.
Outreach planning for a JCM program
- Make contacts. Without a connection in the congregation, it can be hard to know where to begin. Reach out to organizations that serve individuals with special needs. Examples include government agencies, Special Olympics, group homes, etc.
- Reach out to contacts. Whether via email or phone, share details about a JCM program and its benefits.
- Research schedules. Confirm best times and dates for people who are interested in attending and volunteering.
This is a quick overview on one part of beginning a new JCM program. See more details and full plan in our JCM Handbook, available here.