Our Story

In the 1970s, Hugh and Di Willis felt called to open their home on Auckland’s North Shore. Christians with disabilities could meet, build friendships, and explore faith together.

In 1976, this mission took shape when Margie Willers, a young woman with Cerebral Palsy, shared a vision God had placed on her heart—a community where everyone felt included and valued. Hugh and Di embraced this dream, hosting the first official meeting with around 20 people. It was the start of something far bigger than anyone imagined.

As the fellowship grew, so did the desire to stay connected. In 1977, Margie produced the first issue of The Encourager newsletter, carefully typing each word using a mouth-stick on her typewriter.

Today, The Encourager is a full-colour magazine reaching over 4,000 people across New Zealand and beyond—still sharing stories of faith, hope, and encouragement.

Attendance quickly grew to over 80 people, including many wheelchair users. Private homes could no longer hold everyone eager to connect and worship together. For the next decade, the ministry gathered in a variety of venues until 1989, when we reached a milestone by opening our first Drop-In Centre and office in Balmoral, Auckland.

Within five years, God opened the way for us to purchase our own premises on Mount Smart Road in Onehunga.

The International Year of Disabled People in 1981 brought new momentum. Margie and Di were invited to speak at churches and events, inspiring many to get involved. The first regional branch launched in Rotorua, and the very first National Camp was held at Totara Springs in Matamata.

That first camp laid the foundation for a beloved annual tradition. Today, the National Camp welcomes over 350 people each year to worship, connect, and celebrate together.

A visit from international disability advocate Joni Eareckson Tada in 1988 inspired Elevate to extend its reach overseas to Fiji and the Philippines.

By the early 2000s, Elevate had expanded into a nationwide network of more than 25 branches and programmes, including Christian Fellowship For Disabled, Joy Ministries, and Torch Outreach.

In 2012, to reflect this growth and renewed vision, the organisation adopted a new name: Elevate Christian Disability Trust—capturing the mission to lift up and empower people with disabilities.

From a lounge on Auckland’s North Shore to a movement that spans nations, Elevate continues to create spaces of belonging, faith, and transformation.

The National Camp remains a highlight each year, while The Encourager keeps inspiring thousands. Across New Zealand and beyond, Elevate is committed to seeing people with disabilities valued, supported, and empowered to live out their God-given purpose.

With God leading the way, we believe the best is still ahead.