You Belong Here

If you’re a family in Medina, Ohio or the surrounding communities, looking for a church where your child of any ability is welcomed, supported, and valued, you’ve found a place where you belong.

At HCC KIDS, our disability ministry exists so every child can experience the fullness of God’s love in a safe and inclusive environment. We believe each child is created in the image of God and deserves to be seen, known, and embraced. Our disability ministry prioritizes community, integration and connection.

Child playing with colorful blocks during kids ministry activity at a family friendly church in Medina Ohio.

Our disability ministry supports children with visible and invisible disabilities, including:

  • Neurodiversity (Autism, ADHD, sensory differences, oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder, PTSD, OCD, dyslexia, and Tourette’s)
  • History of trauma or Adverse Childhood Experience (ACE)
  • Mental health or behavioral support needs (anxiety, social anxiety, depression)
  • Physical, medical, or mobility needs

Families from Medina, Brunswick, Wadsworth, Seville, Litchfield, Hinckley, and surrounding Northeast Ohio communities are part of our church family.

If you’re unsure whether this ministry is the right fit, we’d love to connect and talk through your child’s specific needs.

Let's Talk

What to Expect

Accessible Parking & Easy Arrival

Designated parking spaces allow close access to the building for families who need it.

Supportive Check-In

Our trained team will greet you, answer questions, and help ensure your child is supported from the moment you arrive.

Individualized Support Options

Support may include:
- Classroom accommodations
- One-on-one buddies
- Quieter or sensory-friendly spaces
- Sensory Room

Trained & Background-Checked Volunteers

All volunteers are background checked and trained to create a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for every child.

Flexible & Family-Centered Care

Every child is different. We partner with families across Medina County to adapt support and help each child thrive.
Child holding colorful puzzle pieces during children’s ministry activity at a welcoming church in Medina Ohio.

Connect Before You Visit

We’d love to learn more about your family before your first Sunday.

Families in Medina and surrounding areas are invited to:

  • Share helpful information about their child
  • Ask questions about support options
  • Schedule a private facilities tour to help with transitions

One-on-One Buddy Program

Some children benefit from individual support from a trusted adult or student volunteer. Our Buddy Program provides one-on-one support to help children engage, connect, and feel safe during Sunday programming.

A Buddy’s role is to:

  • Encourage participation
  • Offer consistent presence
  • Support inclusion in group settings

Sensory Room Coming Soon

As part of the Heartland NEXT Campaign, we are preparing to add a sensory room to better support children who benefit from calming, sensory-friendly environments.

Frequently asked questions

Yes. Heartland Community Church (HCC KIDS) is an autism-friendly church in Medina, Ohio, intentionally creating a welcoming and supportive environment for children with autism, ADHD and other neurodivergent needs. We partner with families to understand each child’s strengths and support needs so they can participate at their own pace.

We support children with autism through:

  • Individualized classroom accommodations
  • One-on-one Buddy support when needed
  • Access to quieter or sensory-friendly spaces
  • Trained, background-checked volunteers
  • Flexible expectations for participation and behavior

Our goal is connection, safety, and belonging.

Yes. Our One-on-One Buddy Program pairs a child with a trained volunteer who offers consistent, relational support. Buddies help children engage in activities, navigate transitions, and feel safe and understood in a group setting.

Absolutely. Children who are nonverbal, minimally verbal, or who need additional support are welcome at HCC Kids. We work closely with families to understand communication preferences, sensory needs, and helpful strategies before your visit.

We provide:

  • Quieter spaces for breaks
  • Flexible participation options
  • Adaptive environment to help kids feel safe

You’re always welcome to visit without advance notice, but many families find it helpful to connect ahead of time. You can:

  • Share your child’s needs with our team
  • Ask questions
  • Schedule a private facilities tour before your first Sunday

Email us at:
hcckids@heartlandcommunity.org

HCC KIDS serves children from infancy through elementary school. Support options may vary by age, and we’re happy to talk through what would best serve your child.

Families from Brunswick, Wadsworth, Seville, Litchfield, Hinckley, and surrounding Northeast Ohio communities attend HCC KIDS. If you’re searching for an autism-friendly church near you in the Medina area, we’d love to welcome your family.

Yes. All volunteers are background checked and receive training focused on safety, inclusion, and supporting children with diverse needs. Our team is committed to creating a trustworthy and caring environment.

The best next step is a conversation. Every child is unique, and we’d love to learn more about your family and explore how we can support your child’s success.

Reach out anytime:
hcckids@heartlandcommunity.org