Hand Over Hand

We are all God's Masterpiece.


Our hope and prayer is that every child who comes to EastLake Church will have an awesome experience and connect with Jesus. That's why we are excited about Hand Over Hand, our ministry for children with special needs.

This ministry is available to families with children birth through 12th grade needing assistance to fully participate and connect in children's and youth programs at EastLake Community Church.


Our caring volunteers will provide a one-on-one partnership with your child during regular service times. This will allow you to attend services knowing that your child is being cared for in a loving environment where they can experience the love of Jesus in a way that meets their unique needs and speaks directly to them.

What does a Hand Over Hand volunteer do?
Volunteers offer physical assistance, behavior intervention and facilitation of communication with others; allowing for the child to participate in their least restrictive environment.

Can anyone use the Hand Over Hand Ministry?
This ministry is available to all families who regularly attend EastLake Church. We do ask that you select a specific service time you will attend regularly. This enables your child and his or her Hand Over Hand volunteer to build a meaningful and productive relationship.

How do I get connected with a Hand Over Hand volunteer?
To enroll your child or to get more information, email one of our volunteer coordinators at handoverhand@eastlakechurch.com

How long does the process take?
As soon as we hear from you, we will begin the process of matching your child with a caring volunteer. This may take a little time, but we will work with you to find the right person for your child. Our goal is for the volunteer and parent to form a solid partnership that can become a lasting friendship for both you and your child.

Can my child still attend their program without a Hand Over Hand volunteer?
If, for a period of time, your child does not have an assigned Hand Over Hand volunteer he or she can still attend his or her program. However, to ensure we can reach you, we will require you to take a pager with you into service. Once a volunteer is assigned to your child, we encourage you and the volunteer to communicate directly. In order to avoid disappointment and maintain a high level of courtesy and reliability on either end, we ask for the parent to contact the volunteer directly and vice versa if they are unable to attend their regular weekly service.

What is the screening for the Hand Over Hand volunteer?
We use the same application and detailed background check that applies to all EastLake Church Children's Ministry volunteers, with the addition of a personal interview with the program coordinator.

What is the training for volunteers?
Some of the volunteers have professional training or education in special needs, but it is not required. You are the best person to teach the volunteer how to work with your child. We are excited to see your child learn, grow and experience God's love through this program. Our hope is that you will be able to relax and participate in church, knowing that your child is well cared for. For more information, please contact Linda Rankin, Life Development Director, at 619/ 213-3610 or email us at handoverhand@eastlakechurch.com.

Take A Closer Look At What’s Going On