welcome...

Welcome to the "Made In His Image" Special Needs Family Support Group. We are a group committed to celebrating the truth that every child is created in His image, with a unique purpose prepared in advance by God. 


"For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." Ephesians 2:10


If you are a family member of an exceptional child or adult we hope you will consider being a part of this community of support and encouragement. We want to celebrate joys and victories with you, as well as walk alongside you through the challenges and struggles. 


Whatever season of life your family is in, we are here for you.  As we come together we will share practical tips and wisdom we have learned along the way, but most importantly we will point one another toward hope and joy for the journey!

Facilitators:

Phillip and Janet Ballinger are parents to an adult special needs son.  Their journey raising an exceptional child has taught them to lean on God’s wisdom in choosing them as his caregivers. 


The Ballingers are both retired and have 2 other adult children and 5 grandchildren. They understand the family dynamics of integrating a special needs child into the lives of their other children and grandchildren and teaching them about God’s flawless creation and perfect design.

 

Their hope is to provide caring, Christ-centered support to families who experience the joys and challenges of raising children with special needs. 

Shannon Allen serves on the board at Next Step Farms, a local adult day program for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. 


Shannon's family includes her husband of 30 years, Richie Allen, and their 3 adult children. Their two oldest adult children have been diagnosed with a rare genetic abnormality that limits them both physically and cognitively. 


Shannon's family started attending Mount Zion Baptist Church just prior to the pandemic in July 2019.  They are so thankful for the open loving arms of God that have been shown to their entire family as a part of the Mount Zion family.


Shannon has a passion for helping others and a personal desire for this group to provide support, compassion, and understanding.  She is looking forward to praying with and for you, and ensuring everyone who enters knows you do not have to be alone on this unique journey.


"A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity." 

Proverbs 17:17

meetings:

Second Tuesday of Each Month

6:30-8:00 PM

Mount Zion Baptist Church

Room C 200-201


Childcare is available with advance notice if possible. To ensure we can best provide for your child, please make your childcare request by email prior to each meeting. 


If you are planning to visit this group for the first time please contact the facilitators to verify the next meeting time and for directions to the meeting room


HOPE MINISTRY SUPPORT GROUP VALUES AND GUIDELINES


Contact Us:


REQUEST MORE INFORMATION


Phone Facilitators
256-778-1849


EMAIL FACILITATORS