Who we are

HOPE for Developmental Disabilities began serving Hillsdale County families who have children diagnosed with a developmental disability in January 2006.We welcome participants across the lifespan and our programs grow with the needs our participants and families present. We witness elementary-aged participants mature into early adulthood, which brings new, exciting challenges for our families. It is a joy to see our participants develop confidence and express pride in their talents as we support them on their individual journeys. SPARC continues to offer programs to our participants and families without charging.

Community Organization

When SPARC began, SPARC was in the unique position of starting with a core group of concerned families, watching their children grow, and adding new families with different needs through the years. The organization began with the idea that our children, regardless of age, who have a developmental disability, could actively participate in and contribute to our community. Specifically, HOPE believes in developing and supporting the abilities of our adult children with disabilities so that they can increase their participation in the community. Our programs are based on their interests and facilitate physical fitness and endurance, talent development, self-expression, fellowship, spiritual growth, and the formation of meaningful friendships and relationships.

Connected

St. Paul’s Ability Resource Center (SPARC) is a ministry center in Hillsdale that seeks to embrace and support individuals with developmental disabilities including autism spectrum disorders, cognitive impairments, and Down syndrome. SPARC is operated by a the non-profit group HOPE for Developmental Disabilities Ministries. Each letter of HOPE stands for a specific word giving direction to the levels and connectedness of our programming. These are: HavenOpportunitiesPathwaysEducation.

Through art, music, fitness, structured play, and bible study we work to enhance individual’s quality of life, develop their God-given talents and gifts, and realize their full, unique potential.

SPARC provides a unique way for us to serve the greater community of Hillsdale County. By God’s grace we hope to address the needs of families effected by developmental disabilities by facilitating this community of inclusion and support. SPARC gives a wonderful opportunity to share the Gospel message with those who have been isolated.

For more information about St. Paul's Lutheran Church visit:
www.stpauls-hillsdale.org

Community Events

Art at SPARC was the first class offered at SPARC in the winter of 2009. We currently offer a yearlong calendar, which includes programs at both St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Hillsdale and SPARC. Programs include: Art at SPARC; Game Night; Baking Days at SPARC; seasonal parties such as the annual SPARC Christmas party; bike riding at St. Paul’s and the Baw Beese Trail; two Bible studies; transportation for the Sunday Bible study and Thursday Hangtime; Spaghetti Fundraiser Dinner; Art galleries; produce sales; Hillsdale County Fair exhibits; kitchen safety and cooking; and ongoing parent support for their children across the lifespan.

Our Mission

Embracing and supporting individuals diagnosed with a developmental disability in all aspects of living to enhance their quality of life, develop their God-given talents and gifts, and realize their full, individual potential.

Vision Statement

Providing individuals diagnosed with a developmental disability avenues to participate in activities that support and advocate for their ongoing learning, self-expression, physical well-being, relationships, and spiritual growth through a year-long calendar of programs.

become a volunteer

As a volunteer, you will work one-on-one with participants during any or all of SPARC's programs, help at seasonal events, and more!


Join us now