An Invaluable Experience: ABKA

We are one of many families who joined ABKA after hearing positive recommendations from friends. Initially, we were unsure how our preschooler would adapt to karate, but we have since witnessed his growth in countless ways. Our experience over the past two years has truly been invaluable. 

As I reflect on our experience with ABKA, a few key themes stand out: 

God-Centered: At ABKA, God is at the heart of everything. As the kids learn karate, they also learn Bible verses, pray together, and discover how God is present in all their activities. 

Self-Control: Karate has helped our son develop his ability to follow directions, control his body, and build muscle strength and stamina. Although he’s still full of energy, he’s learned to channel it more effectively and this has made him more confident. 

Perseverance: Each class reinforces the message that, with God’s support, they can overcome challenges. The encouragement from Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me,” resonates throughout each class. 

Community: The opportunity to build relationships with other families who share similar beliefs has been an unexpected blessing. We have developed many lasting friendships through this program. 

Love: It’s evident that Molly and her daughters pour their hearts into this ministry. Their patience and kindness toward each student have been key factors in the program’s significant growth over the past five years. 

If you’re considering joining ABKA, I wholeheartedly encourage you to take the leap—you won’t regret it! 

Find details about North Heights - ABKA here. 

A Welcoming Community For All: Special Needs Ministry

This article was written and published by Hammer & NER in the Spring 2025 magazine. Hammer & NER is a nonprofit that provides people with disabilities the opportunity to live life to its fullest. To find out more about this amazing nonprofit, visit their website: Hammer.org. 

For over 40 years, North Heights Church in Arden Hills has provided a welcoming faith community for individuals with disabilities, including many supported by Hammer & NER. North Heights provides an inclusive environment through their Special Needs Ministry where worship, fellowship, and spiritual growth are all thriving. 

Lori Michaud, the Special Needs Director at North Heights, has worked there for over two decades. Under her leadership, the ministry has grown to provide Sunday morning worship, the "I Am His" Club on Tuesday nights, and a very popular Friday Night Lights social event with more than 100 participants every month. These programs provide people with a chance to attend worship in a welcoming environment that embraces their unique needs. "We try to accommodate everyone so they can experience faith in a way that is meaningful to them," Lori says. 

Bob Lockwood, a longtime Hammer & NER board member and dedicated volunteer at North Heights, has witnessed the profound impact of this ministry firsthand. His daughter, Dru, who is supported by Hammer & NER, regularly comes to worship and really looks forward to each Sunday service. His late daughter, Stacy, found a spiritual home at North Heights too. "This ministry has meant everything to our family," Bob says. "It's a place where everyone is included, no matter their abilities."

North Heights' commitment to diversity has not gone unnoticed; they were presented with the Community Partner Award from Hammer & NER. Through all their work, they continue building a faith-filled community where persons of all abilities, pray, connect, and grow together.