Creating Space for Every Ability: Cedarville and Joni and Friends Host Special Event

Cedarville University’s School of Allied Health and Psychology will host an on-campus, free, youth-friendly outreach event for families of children and young adults with disabilities on Saturday, March 21 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event, by invitation only, will be held in the Center for Biblical and Theological Studies.

Organized by the Allied Health Student Organization in partnership with Joni and Friends, an international ministry that meets the critical needs of people with disabilities in the name of Jesus, this event will offer inclusive, engaging activities for people with disabilities and their siblings while providing caregivers with respite, resources and community connection.

How Cedarville students will support children and young adults with disabilities

Student volunteers from allied health, psychology, education, special education, nursing, music and other academic programs will lead activity stations designed for adaptive play, sensory engagement, music therapy and educational support. Cedarville’s K9s at the Ville student org will also offer therapeutic canine visits to support emotional regulation and social interaction.

Cedarville leaders emphasize disability inclusion, caregiver support and compassionate care

“We want to walk alongside families in a tangible way — creating a joyful, accessible space where every child and caregiver feels seen, respected and refreshed,” said Dr. Mike Weller, dean of the School of Allied Health and Psychology. “This event reflects our commitment to inclusive service and compassionate care.”

The initiative advances Cedarville’s mission to serve the community through Christ-centered engagement, while promoting broader goals of disability inclusion, caregiver well-being and community support. The event emphasizes evidence-based approaches to inclusive programming and offers opportunities for families to learn about local resources and supports.

World Down Syndrome Day connection highlights dignity of every person

The outreach event falls on World Down Syndrome Day, a reminder of the inherent worth and dignity of people with all disabilities. For more information, contact Sarah Wallace from the School of Allied Health and Psychology at Cedarville University at sarahwallace@cedarville.edu.

About Cedarville University

Cedarville University, an evangelical Christian institution in southwest Ohio, offers undergraduate and graduate residential and online programs across arts, sciences and professional fields. With 7,265 students, it is among Ohio's largest private universities and is ranked among the nation’s top five evangelical universities in the Wall Street Journal’s 2026 Best Colleges in the U.S. Cedarville is also known for its vibrant Christian community, challenging academics and high graduation and retention rates. Learn more at cedarville.edu.