In this episode, Rachael and Kyle Vermeulen discuss their journey of stepping back from their podcast in 2024 to focus on building a community for families affected by disabilities. They emphasize the importance of belonging, connection, and support within the church and the broader community. The couple shares their experiences of creating safe spaces for families, launching new programs for 2025, and the mission of Inclusive Pathways to equip churches to foster true belonging for all families.

Takeaways

• Building a community where families feel seen and belong is essential.
• Sometimes obedience means stepping away from what you thought was important.
• Creating a sense of belonging is crucial for families affected by disabilities.
• Hope and healing are experienced through community support.
• The disability community is one of the most underserved populations.
• Disability dads often lack safe spaces to connect and share their experiences.
• Authentic friendships can transform lives and provide support.
• Belonging is not just about being invited; it's about being essential.
• Inclusive pathways can help churches become places of true belonging.
• Every family deserves to feel valued and supported in their faith journey.

Chapters

00:00 The Journey to Community and Belonging

02:15 Stepping Back to Step Forward

04:42 The Need for Connection in Disability Communities

07:08 Building Authentic Relationships

09:51 Creating Safe Spaces for Families

12:13 The Impact of Community on Families

14:58 Launching New Programs for 2025

17:40 Inclusive Pathways: A New Approach

19:11 Transforming Churches for True Belonging

21:42 The Heart of Disability Ministry

23:26 Looking Ahead: Hope and Healing in 2025

special needs parenting, disability parenting, autism, down syndrome, developmental delay, community, belonging, disability, faith, support, connection, church, families, hope, healing, caregiving, disability ministry, special needs ministry,