Our Story
At David's Promise, we create a loving community that honors the unique gifts of individuals with developmental disabilities. We see everyone as made in Christ's image, wanting to belong to a supportive circle of friends. Our aim is to empower individuals with differing abilities, fostering their connection with their peers and to the greater Jackson community. Here, God's love is evident in our actions and spirit!
​
In 2012, a group of individuals made up of parents of children with developmental differences, and professionals, including service providers and special educators, began meeting. The group began with a realization, which every parent of a child with developmental differences has to face: “formal schooling as they knew it, would someday come to an end or had already come to an end.” The school structure that helped the child learn and have a community of friends, would no longer exist. The concern of, “what will happen to my child as we age and I am no longer able to care for them,” was also on the hearts and minds of the parents in the group.
​
This group came to a consensus of what parents wanted once formal education ended for their special needs child. Parents wanted a place where friends could be made, their child’s faith could be expressed, learning would continue, recreational and social programs were offered and enjoyed, serving others was valued, and ultimately, a safe community living environment. This place? This place would be called David’s Promise.
Why the Name
David's Promise
The name 'David's Promise' is inspired by a Bible story featuring King David and his best friend, Jonathan. Jonathan's son, Mephibosheth, faced a tragic accident in childhood, leaving him unable to walk or care for himself.
​
When Jonathan passed away, David made a heartfelt promise. He vowed that Mephibosheth would always have a place at his table and a place called home. This promise was more than just words; it was a commitment of love and support. "So Mephibosheth ate at David's table like one of the king's sons" (2 Samuel 9:11).
We at David’s Promise feel a deep calling to fulfill David's promise to Mephibosheth by building a nurturing environment for people
with unique abilities. Together, we can serve, learn, and support one another, creating bonds of friendship that last a lifetime!
Our Approach: Spiritual Growth,
Life and Community Experiences
At Compassionate Ministries of Jackson County, we celebrate the unique abilities of each person.
Our David's Promise ministry creates a space for spiritual growth and lifelong learning. We believe in nurturing individuality, encouraging active learning, and fostering strong community connections.
Life and Community Experiences
Formal schooling may have concluded, but the journey of learning and personal growth continues. Our life enrichment classes offer diverse opportunities, including fitness, gardening, music, cooking, and art appreciation classes.
​
In addition to our life enrichment classes, volunteerism is at the heart of what we do at David's Promise. Participants pack food bags for children in need and help families access fresh produce at our Fresh Food Distribution.
Spiritual Growth
At David’s Promise, we believe that those affected by a disability are essential in furthering the Kingdom of God and that all people with differing abilities are an integral part of the body of Christ.
Every participant at David’s Promise is respected, valued, and cherished. We welcome those who have no religious or spiritual affiliation. Friendship and knowing God loves everyone is at the heart of our journey together!
​
Participants gather for weekly devotionals and prayer. Promise Church, a church service specifically geared to adults with developmental disabilties, their families, and caregivers, meets every Sunday at 3pm at the Compassionate Ministries Center.
Our Support
David’s Promise is a ministry of Compassionate Ministries of Jackson County. Currently, participants can be part of the David’s Promise community at no cost. We are a faith-based nonprofit that depends upon the faithful giving from community members, churches, organizations and foundations throughout the US. We are grateful for those of you who believe in our vision and support our ministry financially.
How to Become a David's Promise Participant
The David’s Promise Program and Enrollment Guide provides an overview of the David’s Promise daytime program, providing information on how to become a David’s Promise participant.
The guide can be downloaded, allowing you to learn more about David’s Promise, our guiding principles, program eligibility requirements, and the new enrollee process.
David's Promise Program and Enrollment Guide
WHAT PEOPLE SAY
"Before Courtney and I joined David's Promise we existed. A couple bumps on a log. I began attending with her and we felt welcome. Before long we warmed up. Now we are home. Because of David's Promise we now have special friends who we get together with in the real world. We have grown to care about each other’s families that are going thru rough times, we pray for good outcomes and check FB for updates. We are comforted by our real families but understood and accepted by our David's Promise families. I hope I was able to express how special and, in all seriousness, life changing this place truly is."
— Cindy, Parent of a David's Promise particpant.