Programmes

Our programmes


Raising Hope South Africa offers a number of programmes aimed at supporting families and individuals impacted by disabilities. Our programmes are aimed at achieving the following outcomes:

Equipping parents of children with disabilities with knowledge and skills to be able to better support, encourage and direct their children into adulthood.

Promoting and encouraging inclusion of families and individuals with disabilities into all facets of life, including community, education, sport, and religious experiences.

Disability Ministry Programme


Disability Inclusion training


In South Africa, individuals with disabilities are often marginalized and excluded, with limited recognition of their needs across society—including within the church. Research highlights that disability inclusion is frequently treated as an afterthought, despite a global disability prevalence of 15%. Alarmingly, this prevalence remains largely invisible within church communities, underscoring the urgency of addressing disability inclusion as a vital topic for the faith community.

Historically, religion in Africa has contributed to stigma surrounding disability, shaping societal perceptions in ways that often perpetuate exclusion. Religious leaders, however, hold a unique and powerful role in reshaping these narratives. By promoting positive messages about disability and advocating for inclusion, pastoral leaders can serve as catalysts for change within their congregations and broader communities. The church has an opportunity to honour the agency of individuals with disabilities, challenge harmful cultural and religious taboos, and model a just, inclusive community that reflects God’s diverse image.

Raising Hope South Africa’s workshops are designed to equip church leaders and faith communities with the tools to embrace and practice disability inclusion. These practical, experiential sessions integrate:


  • Disability theory to deepen understanding of diverse needs.
  • Theological dialogue to construct life-giving disability theologies.
  • Hands-on case studies to foster inclusive practices.

The workshops focus on creating communities of belonging by addressing access, reasonable accommodations, and strategies for inclusion across all ministries. They empower churches to embody Christ’s vision of a body that values every member’s unique contributions.


  Workshop Options:

  • Introductory half-day sessions tailored for ministry leaders.
  • Full-day workshops covering all ministry areas.
  • Specialized deep dives into specific ministries, such as children’s ministry.

Contact us to explore how Raising Hope South Africa can support your church in becoming a beacon of inclusion and belonging. Together, let’s reflect God’s embrace of diversity in our communities.


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RISE ministry


Caring for children with disabilities can often feel socially isolating. Rise Family Days provide a welcoming space for families to relax, connect, and find support. These events are thoughtfully designed to include:


  • Fellowship and Parent Support: Families enjoy opportunities to build connections and participate in parent support groups, enriched with valuable resources and disability-related information.
  • Inclusive Activities: Children with disabilities engage in fun and inclusive activities that celebrate their abilities.
  • Community Engagement: Volunteers from the church community actively participate, fostering meaningful interactions with individuals with disabilities.
  • Shared Ministry: Families experience a time of ministry together, featuring an uplifting and engaging message.

Rise Family Days empower families by helping them recognize their children's abilities, build friendships, and strengthen their community network in a supportive and joyful environment.


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