Global special needs ministry for all ages, the “Champions Club,” has announced a major new initiative aimed at addressing a significant, long-overlooked gap in Christian ministry resources: a dedicated, age-appropriate, faith-based curriculum for individuals with special needs aged 12-plus, which can be used in any appropriate setting.
The organization, founded by Lakewood Church in Houston, Texas, U.S. and known for its global outreach through the Champions Club model, has officially launched the Champions Club Curriculum for Teens and Adults. The comprehensive material is designed to empower older learners in their relationship with God and personal development.
Built upon the success of their established children’s curriculum, this new edition is an intentional, Bible-based experience that recognizes the unique maturity and spiritual needs of older individuals.
Rev. Craig Johnson, Founder of the Champions Foundation, highlighted the necessity of the project.
“We recognized a tremendous need for a quality curriculum that speaks directly to teens and adults with special needs: their identity, gifts, talents, life skills and relationship with God,” Johnson stated.
He emphasized the originality of the material, noting, “This is not a ‘children’s’ curriculum with a new cover; it’s a full year of material designed just for them.”
The curriculum is structured around five units, providing a complete year of spiritual and personal growth. It uniquely integrates faith with developmental progress through four core “stations”: Spiritual Development, Creative Learning, Sensory Development, and Physical Development.
To ensure practical application in church and community settings, the program also includes a dedicated Holiday & Special Days Unit with lessons for occasions like Easter and Christmas.
Recognizing the wide spectrum of needs, each lesson features tailored activities for both independent learners and those requiring more guidance, all packaged in a ready-to-use format that simplifies preparation for teachers and volunteers.
Since its founding in 2008 by Craig and Samantha Johnson, the Champions Foundation has been devoted to serving individuals with special needs and the medically fragile.
Through the Champions Club model, the non-profit has helped design and implement more than 130 developmental centers in churches, schools, and communities around the world.
The foundation’s ministry is rooted in a commitment to inclusion, ensuring that every person who enters a Champions Club experiences an atmosphere of love, dignity, and acceptance, regardless of the severity of their situation. This curriculum is the latest step in their mission to help individuals discover their God-given purpose and reach their fullest potential in a supportive, faith-filled environment.
The first three units of the Champions Club Curriculum for Teens and Adults are now available, offering churches and ministries a powerful new tool to embrace and disciple this vital community.
For ministries seeking to expand their inclusive outreach, sample lessons and purchase information can be found on the Champions Foundation website.
