Impact Stories from Disability Awareness Sunday | June 2025
By Jacqui Sua and Ella Lander
Volunteers spoke at local Churches for Disability Awareness Sunday 2025. These stories capture a few snippets of the impact that the volunteers’ stories had on the congregations and family Churches they shared with. For the sake of privacy, names and Churches have been left out of these short stories.
Story 01.
One lady’s story really struck a chord. One member of the Church shared afterwards that they’d wrestled with the same questions of value and identity – and hearing this lady’s story helped them feel less alone. Another attendee at the same Church said they felt so encouraged that, for the first time, they introduced themselves when speaking. It might seem like a small thing, but it was a powerful step – a sign of growing confidence, and a reminder of how important it is to create spaces where people feel safe to be known.
Story 02.
One Church showed strong support for the work of Elevate, encouraging the congregation to get behind the ministry. There may be future opportunities to for Elevate to speak at their connect groups that meet regularly at the church. Elevate staff and volunteers attending also had the privilege of meeting and connecting with some young people who have disabilities.
Story 03.
When one volunteer supported by his family spoke at their neighbouring Church, they were reported to be very engaging and funny! Their story and connection sharing as a family brought smiles to the room. It was deeply moving to hear about the volunteer’s journey in sowing into their community and living with a disability: how they’ve spent over 30 years volunteering, and how that led them to travel overseas on mission. Their story reminded us exactly why Disability Awareness Sunday matters, every life has purpose, and every person has something meaningful to give.
