From The Ashland Source – By Hannah Martin –
NORTH CENTRAL OHIO — Attending church used to feel out of reach for the Wenzel family.
A simple Sunday morning always required being apart. Malorie Wenzel said one parent always had to stay home with their 9-year-old son Grady, who is autistic and nonverbal.
Now, Malorie and her husband can sit by side in service — thanks to the Champions Club at Storyside Church in Bellville. Malorie said they know Grady is safe, cared for and included.
“This is the first time our family of four has been able to attend church together,” Malorie Wenzel said. “Our family has been attending Storyside Church since July 2025.”
Before they began attending as a family, Malorie visited the church alone so she could see the Champions classroom.
Wenzel said the room’s thoughtful design with sensory toys and engaging items immediately put her at ease.
“Storyside has made me feel completely safe and comfortable placing Grady in their care,” she said.
A space designed for those with disabilities
Storyside has offered Champions Club for more than 12 years. The program averages around six to 10 children each weekend with a team of eight volunteers. Two volunteers are always in the room, and if the number of children increases, so does the number of volunteers.
Laurie Boggs is the coordinator of Champions Club at Storyside Church. She said the program aims to provide a blessing to parents and give them peace of mind.
“We just try to set up an environment where the children feel safe, welcomed, loved and accepted for who they are, in a space where we can teach them about Jesus and His love for them” Boggs said.
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