Inclusive Special Needs Ministry Pastor

Christ's Church of the Valley; Phoenix (AZ); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Christ's Church of the Valley is seeking a Special Needs Pastor to lead and grow inclusive programs for children, students, and adults with diverse abilities. You will recruit volunteers, provide spiritual coaching, and collaborate with Kids/Students Ministries to integrate participants into church life.

You will design scripture-based curricula, ensure safe environments, and manage events like Night to Shine and church-wide celebrations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in ministry, education, child development, or related field preferred.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience leading volunteers or staff in a church or children's ministry setting.
• Experience with large-scale programming and volunteer coordination is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Identify, recruit, and onboard volunteers with a heart for special needs ministry, ensuring all safety protocols and background checks are completed.
• Provide ongoing training, coaching, and spiritual development to equip volunteers for success in inclusive ministry environments.
• Foster a culture of encouragement, accountability, and excellence among volunteers through regular communication and appreciation.
• Build authentic relationships with families through one-on-one interactions, school visits, and community engagement.
• Serve as a pastoral resource for families, offering spiritual guidance, emotional support, and practical tools for navigating life with special needs.
• Connect new families to the ministry, helping them feel welcomed, understood, and empowered to participate fully.
• Lead all aspects of Special Needs Ministry programming across age groups (Kids, Students, Adults), ensuring experiences are inclusive, engaging, and Christ-centered.
• Design and implement curriculum and activities that reflect biblical truth while accommodating diverse learning and sensory needs.
• Ensure environments are safe, welcoming, and tailored to the unique needs of individuals with disabilities.
• Partner with the Kids and Students Ministry teams to integrate special needs participants into broader church programming wherever possible.
• Collaborate with the Campus Pastor and other ministry leaders to grow attendance and deepen engagement within the special needs community.
• Lead and empower the ministry team to meet goals, steward resources, and drive innovation in inclusive ministry practices.
• Plan and execute key events such as Night to Shine, Dad/Daughter Dinner, Volunteer Appreciation, Easter, Christmas Eve services, Exceptional Stars, Special Needs Camp, and Kids Camp.
• Ensure events are inclusive, well-organized, and aligned with CCV's mission to reach and serve all families.
• Utilize the Rock system to manage attendance, check-ins, volunteer scheduling, and communication effectively.
• Monitor ministry metrics and goals, making data-informed decisions to improve programming and outreach.
• Maintain clear documentation and communication with staff, volunteers, and families.
• Uphold and champion the vision and mission of the Special Needs Ministry across all touchpoints.
• Inspire and equip volunteers and staff to lead with compassion, excellence, and a heart for inclusion.
• Build strong relationships with parents, volunteers, and church leadership to foster unity and shared purpose.

Skills

Leadership & Influence

Relational Intelligence

Organizational Skills

Adaptability

Initiative & Drive

Technology Proficiency

Education

Bachelor's degree in ministry, education, child development, or related field

Tools

Rock system

Job description

Christ's Church of the Valley is seeking a Special Needs Pastor to lead and grow inclusive programs for children, students, and adults with diverse abilities. You will recruit volunteers, provide spiritual coaching, and collaborate with Kids/Students Ministries to integrate participants into church life.

You will design scripture-based curricula, ensure safe environments, and manage events like Night to Shine and church-wide celebrations.