Faith on the Spectrum is hoping to transform empty spaces into inclusive community centers where individuals with disabilities can connect, engage, and thrive. These centers are designed for a variety of activities, from sensory-friendly events to social gatherings, empowering participants to enjoy experiences in a supportive environment. 

Support Sensory Spaces for Faith-Based Events, Community Centers, and Social Gatherings

Sensory Rooms for Faith Based Events

Our first major initiative is all about creating sensory-friendly spaces within faith-based settings—places like churches or religious events—so that individuals with disabilities have the support they need to fully participate. These rooms are thoughtfully designed as calm, quiet environments equipped with things like weighted blankets, fidget tools, and soft lighting to help individuals self-regulate without having to leave the community space entirely.

This mission is deeply personal—it started when my own son asked me, “Who is God?” because he hadn’t been able to access a faith environment where he could feel safe, included, and supported. That moment lit a fire in us to make sure no other child misses out on being part of something meaningful just because the setting wasn’t built with their needs in mind.

While we often partner with faith-based spaces, our organization isn’t tied to any specific religion. Our focus is on inclusion, making sure every child and young adult has a place where they feel seen, supported, and connected.

Transforming Empty Spaces into "Community Centers"

The second part of our initiative centers on transforming donated or underused spaces into warm, welcoming hubs designed specifically for individuals with disabilities. While they might not be traditional “community centers” in name, the idea is the same—a supportive environment where people can gather, connect, and feel completely at home. These spaces will offer the freedom to join in activities or simply enjoy being in the presence of others, without pressure to perform or conform. What truly sets them apart is the presence of trained Buddy volunteers who are always ready to offer compassionate, one-on-one support—ensuring everyone who walks through the door feels seen, respected, and part of something bigger.

Some of these Community centers will serve as multipurpose spaces for socialization and Activity

We’re planning on reimagining donated or underused spaces into open, gym-style environments designed for children and young adults with disabilities, a place where they can move, explore, observe, and participate in activities at their own pace. These aren’t your typical structured programs, they’re more like free form zones where individuals can try new things, build confidence, and discover what they enjoy without pressure.

The goal is to create an unstructured but supportive environment where movement and curiosity lead the way. Kids can watch, join in, or just be present while learning about different sports, hobbies, and interests in a safe, inclusive space. These types of open-play areas are known to support physical health, boost emotional well-being, and strengthen social skills by encouraging autonomy, creativity, and natural connection.

To make it even more meaningful, we plan to invite local businesses, hobbyists, and professionals to volunteer their time—spending a day at the center introducing participants to a wide variety of activities and interests. Whether it’s adaptive yoga, drumming, painting, dance, or even gardening, these one-day experiences expose kids to new passions and possibilities—allowing them to form their own path forward and not just be placed in something that doesn’t reflect who they are.