Dante’s Place is an integrative ministry for our children with special needs. Here at Kids on Track we believe that each child is unique and must be treated as a special gift from God. We have developed this program specifically for the child who needs special care and attention. Dante’s Place accepts children who have emotional, mental or physical disabilities, who are from the age infant to fifth grade. We will partner them with a buddy who will regularly assist them to participate in all of Victory’s children’s programs.

What if my child has questions about Special Needs Kids? Your child may come home from time to time and tell you about a child in their class that looked, acted, or talked “funny”

Here are some helpful tips on handling questions your child may ask:

Why do they come to VCC?
Because in Kid’s on Track we believe that all children matter to God.

Why are they like that?
Because that is how God made them. He makes all of us differently which makes all of us special to Him.

How should I treat them?
You should treat them exactly as you would like to be treated because they are kids too and have feeling just like you do.

The most important thing for children, when they are around children with special needs, is to have their questions answered. Once their questions are answered, they are usually very comfortable and can begin their journey of accepting people’s differences in a healthy and spiritual way.

We are so thrilled that you have followed God’s calling to find out about the Special Needs Ministry (Dante’s Place) at Victory Christian Center. This ministry is an answer to the prayers of many in this church who have seen the need, and the many who have the need. Dante’s Place could not exist without the many amazing partners that have decided to serve God by volunteering with us. Each child in our ministry is partnered with a teen or adult so that they can attend the regular children ministry areas. All of our children that are served have a disability. The types of disabilities that we serve touch on all areas of diagnosis, with the exception of ADD or ADHD. A diagnosis for our preschoolers is not required. The procedure for placing a child with a partner starts by either the parent/parents expressing a need or by observing the child in their classroom. The parents then fill out a child profile with important information about the child/children and participate in a short interview. Once that is completed we find the partner that is the perfect match for that child. As the director of this amazing ministry, I am here to make your involvement with us as positive as possible. I will be sitting down with you to share the vision and purpose of this ministry. I can also answer any specific questions you may have about our ministry or Victory Christian Center. Then, once a match has been made with a child and partner, I will take a back seat and the relationship will grow between the partner, child/teen and family. Please let me know that I am always available to trouble shoot or help when there is a need. You can contact me at (330) 540-9763. In Christ, Karen Centofanti Director of Dante’s Place Special Needs Ministry

Special Needs FAQ

How does Dante’s Place work?
We team each child, with a special need, with a partner (adult/teen). That partner then helps the child integrate into our existing children’s programs at Victory Christian Center.

How do I register my child?
Contact the Dante’s Place Director, Karen Centofanti at 330.540.9763.

When is Dante’s Place offered?
During our regular Sunday & Wednesday services.

How are partners selected?
Once someone notifies us of their interest in partnering, they are given an interview where a determination is made whether they qualify. Each partner must go through a security screening process to be approved to work with children.

Is the partner trained?
Some of our partners have experience working with children with special needs, but this is not always the case. Since you know your child best and are an expert in their care, we strongly rely upon your input to be sure we provide the best care for you child.

What does my partner need from me?
Communication is essential. Your child’s partner will rely on you , so he/she can best serve your child. Please pray for your child’s partner as they seek to serve you and your child.