providing accessibility and program grants, resources, education and advocacy to annual conferences and congregations, so people with disabilities can participate at all levels in United Methodist Churches.

Annual Goal: $40,000.00

Year to Date Gifts: $2,686.00

The DisAbility Ministries Committee of the United Methodist Church, formed in 1992 as the National Task Force on Developmental Disabilities, was launched in 2013 as a result of General Conference action. Their mission through advocacy, education and empowerment will lead the UMC in creating a culture where people with disabilities are fully included in all aspects of worship, leadership and ministry. The Committee offers resources including a web site with articles and downloadable tools, a newsletter, support for awareness and educational events and consultation. Ten jurisdictional members and liaison members from related agencies lead this effort.

The Primary Goal United Methodist congregations will unconditionally welcome people with all types of disabilities. Work toward this goal is grounded in Wesleyan theology and includes 1. Grants to Churches and Conferences 2. Resources, Education, and Advocacy tools such as a. A website with links to UMC resources and happenings b. A newsletter highlighting topics relevant to disability ministries c. Social media to raise awareness and provide information d. Training opportunities and speakers e. Curriculum Experienced volunteers keep costs low, but the work may stop without funds for grants, planning meetings and administrative costs. Advance funds help pay part-time employees to answer requests, take care of needed logistics, offer trainings, edit the newsletter, administer social media, and maintain a web site.