In the heart of Half Moon Bay, a special partnership between Mariners Church and Hope Services is redefining what it means to support individuals with developmental disabilities.

At Hope Services, we strive daily to create new connections and partnerships in our communities that might enable greater awareness and inclusion among individuals with disabilities and the broader population.

In Half Moon Bay, we are fortunate to have developed, over the course of a decade, a meaningful partnership with Mariners Church. This values-based non profit not far from the local Hope Services site opens its doors each and every Friday to members of Hope’s HPDN program (which facilitates 100% community-based programming).

This collaboration, born from shared visions of inclusion and community support, offers a glimpse into the profound impact that such alliances can create, not only for participants of Hope Services’ HPDN program but for the community at large.

At Mariners Church on Fridays, participants are able to explore their talents, learn new skills, and simply enjoy the camaraderie of friends. The church’s well-equipped auditorium becomes a classroom for music, where participants, for many years, have had the opportunity to engage with sound boards and stage equipment.

More recently, the partnership has grown to include cooking classes in the church’s large kitchen, providing invaluable, integrated learning opportunities.

By offering its facilities free of charge, Mariners Church not only supports Hope Services’ vision but actively participates in creating a world where individuals with developmental disabilities can thrive and feel valued.

Ivette Moctezuma, the church Outreach Director, eloquently captures the essence of this collaboration.

“Mariners Church aims to be a resource in the community—a place where anyone can belong and feel like family. By providing a space for Hope Services’ participants to sing and cook, it’s an opportunity to create trust with non-profits in our city.”

This partnership educates the church community and the wider public about the needs and experiences of individuals with developmental disabilities, bridging gaps of understanding and acceptance.

The impact of this partnership extends beyond the immediate benefits to participants. It serves as a model for how community organizations can come together creatively to enhance the lives of individuals with special needs. As Mariners Church looks to expand its facilities, the vision remains community-focused, with the intention of benefiting the community as a whole.

Moctezuma’s vision for the future is one of continued support and expansion of opportunities for the special needs community, including events like dances or dinners. Such initiatives not only bring joy to participants but also serve as vital platforms for inclusivity, and opportunity for dialogue.

The partnership between Hope Services and Mariners Church is more than just a use of space; it’s a celebration of community, inclusion, and the belief that everyone deserves a place to do life beyond their programs and homes. It’s a simple, yet powerful reminder that when communities come together, they can create environments where everyone, regardless of their abilities, can feel valued and included.