What does a Hand Over Hand volunteer do?
Volunteers offer physical assistance, emotional support, behavioral intervention, and facilitate effective communication. This allows the child to participate in their least restrictive environment.
Can anyone use the Hand Over Hand Ministry?
This ministry is available to all families who regularly attend Eastlake Church. We do ask that you select a specific service time you will attend regularly. This enables your child and his or her Hand Over Hand volunteer to build a trusting and meaningful relationship.
How do I get connected with a Hand Over Hand volunteer?
To enroll your child or to get more information, email handoverhand@torreypines.church.
How long does the process take?
As soon as we hear from you, we will begin the process of matching your child with a caring volunteer. This may take a little time, but we will work with you to find the right person for your child. Our goal is to create community, embrace parent partnerships and build lasting friendships with families.
Can my child still attend their program without a Hand Over Hand volunteer?
If, for a period of time, your child does not have an assigned Hand Over Hand volunteer, he or she can still attend their program. Please understand that under certain circumstances, where safety is a concern, this may require director approval. For communication purposes, we require an email, phone number, and for parents to keep us updated on any changes.
Once a volunteer is assigned to your child, we encourage you and the volunteer to communicate directly. In order to avoid disappointment and maintain a high level of courtesy and reliability on both ends, we ask for the parent to contact HOH immediately if they are unable to attend their regular weekly service.
What is the screening for the Hand Over Hand volunteer?
We use the same application and detailed background check that applies to all EastLake Church Children’s Ministry volunteers, with the addition of a personal interview with the program director.
What is the training for volunteers?
Some of the volunteers have professional training or a background in special education, but it is not required. Peer buddies create naturalistic modeling opportunities, increase social-emotional skills, and facilitate friendships. However, you are the best person to teach the volunteer how to work with your child. We are excited to see your child learn, grow, and experience God’s love through this program. Our hope is that you will be able to participate and enjoy church service knowing that your child is well cared for.