OTD Capstone Projects

Abstract

The Embrace Ministry is a special-needs ministry at Brentwood Baptist that serves individuals of all ages, creating a safe and supportive environment to meet the unique needs of individuals and families impacted by disability. This doctoral capstone project was completed in partnership with Embrace, with the shared objective of developing targeted curriculum and training to enhance participation and engagement in the day program and ministry service settings. This project addressed the identified need for enhanced volunteer and staff training curriculum, as well as day program curriculum development and evidence-informed strategies to address diverse sensory, behavioral, and functional needs. Key outcomes included improved staff and volunteer confidence through event-based training modules and in-depth behavioral education, increased participation among individuals with high behavioral needs through implementation of individualized support strategies, and development and delivery of life skills focused curriculum.

Publication Date

Spring 4-21-2026

Faculty Mentor

Whitney Dupree

Department

Occupational Therapy, School of

College

Health Sciences & Nursing, Gordon E. Inman College of

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree

Doctorate of Occupational Therapy (OTD)

Degree Level

Doctoral

Degree Grantor

Belmont University

Keywords

special needs ministry; church accessibility; staff training; educational resources; intellectual and developmental disabilities; day program

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