Our Approach
Guidelight helps families and churches navigate disability. We serve at home and abroad, which gives us an understanding of the personal as well as global impact of disability, and helps us make meaningful difference in the lives of those affected.
We are to treat all human beings with respect for the whole of their lives, regardless of their particular characteristics. It is not our respect that gives them dignity, rather it is because they have dignity that we owe them respect. With the value of a person firmly settled by the fact that they have been made in the image of God we begin to see that what we call “disability” is a strategy on God’s part to gain glory for his great name.”
— DR. MEGAN BEST,
AUTHOR OF FEARFULLY AND WONDERFULLY MADE
T H E W O R L D ’ S L A R G E S T M I N O R I T Y
According to the World Health Organization, over one billion people live with disability.
Globally, individuals with disabilities generally face challenges such as poorer health, lower educational achievements, limited economic opportunities, and higher rates of poverty, as reported by the United Nations. Around 80% of people with disabilities reside in developing countries, with a significant portion experiencing poverty.
Despite the potential progress individuals with disabilities can make through therapy and education, many in the developing world lack access to these resources. Instead, they are often institutionalized without receiving necessary developmental care. Tragically, caregivers in these settings may subject these vulnerable individuals to abuse or neglect.
Where do we fit in?
Everyone requires a loving and secure environment for growth and development. However, for caregivers of individuals with disabilities, the challenges persist relentlessly. Often, with no prospect of a cure and no end in sight, caregivers can be overwhelmed by despair.
Guidelight exists to support and empower caregivers of individuals with disabilities, while also equipping the church to do the same.
"In the journey of life with our special blessing of a child, the challenges may seem never-ending, a constant life of daily needs with our child relying deeply on us."
At Guidelight Retreats, we step into the midst of this chaos, providing families with an intimate escape. We meticulously tailor every aspect of the weekend to address the unique needs of families affected by disability, offering refreshment and renewal. A dedicated team of over twenty volunteers works tirelessly and passionately to serve our families.
“There are many hurting…marriages in families of disabled children, and now there is a ministry serving this unique niche. It’s necessary in a world that can feel so dark and lonely…”
— FATHER OF A CHILD WITH SPECIAL NEEDS