Ep. 198 — Resourcing Special Needs Girls & Their Families

As parents, mentors, and faith leaders, we all want to raise girls who embody Christ’s love and compassion. But how can we practically support and resource girls with special needs and their families? In this episode of the Raising Godly Girls Podcast, co-hosts Rachael and Natalie explore how we can nurture empathy, inclusion, and support for differently-abled girls—offering both spiritual encouragement and hands-on ways to serve.  We’ll reflect on God’s heart for those society often overlooks, from Mephibosheth’s place at King David’s table to Jesus’ deep care for the disabled and marginalized. Plus, we’ll hear wisdom from American Heritage Girls Founder & Executive Director, Patti Garibay, in a Raising Godly Girls Minute on helping our daughters develop empathy for neurodiverse friends.  This episode is packed with practical ways to serve, including how AHG Troops can implement the Serving Persons Impacted by Disabilities Service Spotlight, organize respite care for caregivers, and partner with special needs ministries to make a lasting impact.  If you’re looking for faith-based parenting insights, disability ministry resources, or encouragement to guide your daughter in loving and serving all of God’s children, this conversation is for you.  Listen now and be inspired to raise a godly girl who sees, loves, and serves others as Christ does.    Find an American Heritage Girls Troop near you, visit americanheritagegirls.org       Add even more Biblical wisdom to your parenting quiver, visit raisinggodlygirls.com

In a world that often overlooks those who experience life differently, the Church has a unique and powerful opportunity—to create spaces of true belonging. This week on the Raising Godly Girls Podcast, co-hosts Rachael and Natalie dive into an essential conversation about the role of the Church, families, and communities in embracing differently-abled girls.  For too long, individuals with intellectual or physical disabilities have been separated, sometimes unintentionally, from the larger Body of Christ. But that’s changing. Churches and ministries across the country are recognizing the need to move beyond mere inclusion to fostering a deep sense of belonging. Together, we’ll explore what this shift looks like in practice, from the development of special needs ministries to the impact of simple, everyday acts of Christ-like love.  Patti Garibay, American Heritage Girls Founder & Executive Director, shares a Raising Godly Girls Minute to highlight the importance of introducing our daughters to differently-abled friends early in life. Research shows that children develop social biases as young as preschool age—but by intentionally engaging with those who experience the world differently, our girls can grow into compassionate, Christ-reflecting young women.  We’ll also reflect on the Biblical call to embrace all members of God’s family. First Corinthians 12 reminds us that every believer—regardless of ability—has been given spiritual gifts to serve and build up the Church. When we create environments that allow differently-abled girls to participate fully, we not only honor them but also witness the creativity and wisdom of God in ways we might otherwise miss.  From discussing impactful programs like Tim Tebow’s Night to Shine to highlighting how American Heritage Girls Troops can offer a welcoming place for girls of all abilities, this episode is filled with practical ways to champion belonging. Whether you're a parent, a church leader, or simply someone who wants to reflect God's heart for all His children, this conversation will encourage and equip you to make a difference.  Join us as we consider: How can we better love, support, and celebrate our differently-abled friends? And how can we teach the next generation to do the same?  Listen now and take the next step in creating a world where every girl knows she belongs.  Find an American Heritage Girls Troop near you, visit americanheritagegirls.org       Add even more Biblical wisdom to your parenting quiver, visit raisinggodlygirls.com   

Loneliness is an ache that too many of us—moms, daughters, grandmothers—carry in silence. In a world more connected than ever through technology, why do we often feel so alone? How can we guide our girls toward meaningful, faith-filled relationships when we ourselves sometimes struggle to find them?  In this powerful episode of the Raising Godly Girls Podcast, host Patti Garibay sits down with author and faith leader Elisa Morgan to explore the reality of loneliness and how God’s presence offers true companionship. Elisa, former CEO of MomCo and co-host of God Hears Her, shares wisdom from her own journey and insights from her books, including You Are Not Alone and The Beauty of Broken.  Together, Patti and Elisa dive into the impact of isolation on girls and mothers alike, uncovering the difference between loneliness and solitude, the role of the church in fostering community, and how Scripture can be an anchor in our most isolating moments. You’ll also hear practical ways to help your daughter build Christ-centered friendships and discover her worth in God’s eyes.  If you’ve ever wrestled with loneliness or wondered how to help your daughter navigate feelings of isolation, this episode is for you. Tune in for encouragement, hope, and a reminder that we are never truly alone—God is always with us.  Learn more about Elisa Morgan and her work at elisamorgan.com  Find an American Heritage Girls Troop near you, visit americanheritagegirls.org       Add even more Biblical wisdom to your parenting quiver, visit raisinggodlygirls.com 

Loneliness can be a silent struggle, especially for our daughters. As moms, mentors, and faith leaders, how do we help a girl who has withdrawn from meaningful relationships and doesn’t know how to step back into community? In this episode of the Raising Godly Girls Podcast, co-hosts Rachael and Natalie unpack the reality of social isolation’s deep impact on girls today—how fear, anxiety, and lies from the enemy can keep them locked away in heart-seclusion.  You’ll hear about the science behind social isolation, its long-term effects on mental and emotional well-being, and—most importantly—how we can gently coax our girls out of loneliness and into the rich, Christ-centered relationships they were made for. Through practical wisdom from American Heritage Girls Founder & Executive Director Patti Garibay, Biblical encouragement, and real-life strategies, we’ll explore the essential spheres of relational connection: the family, the church, and the wider community.  Whether your daughter is struggling with friendships, hesitant to re-engage after hurt, or feeling lost in the digital age of false connection, this conversation will equip you to guide her back toward life-giving relationships. Plus, don’t miss the announcement of AHG’s newest resource, The Raising Godly Girls Guide to Loneliness—your go-to tool for recognizing the signs of isolation and shepherding your girl into thriving, Christ-honoring community.  Hit play, be encouraged, and start the journey of helping your girl rediscover the joy of real connection!  Find an American Heritage Girls Troop near you, visit americanheritagegirls.org       Add even more Biblical wisdom to your parenting quiver, visit raisinggodlygirls.com 

Loneliness is more than just a passing feeling—it’s a growing crisis among today’s girls. In this episode of the Raising Godly Girls Podcast, co-hosts Rachael and Natalie dive deep into the reality of loneliness and isolation and how they are impacting the mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being of young women.  Did you know that the U.S. Surgeon General has labeled loneliness a public health crisis, ranking it alongside obesity and addiction? Even in a world more connected than ever through technology, girls are feeling increasingly alone. But why? And more importantly, what can we do about it?  Rachael and Natalie explore the devastating effects of isolation, from struggling self-worth to the inability to form deep, meaningful relationships. They highlight the difference between merely being around people and truly connecting with them—because public aloneness is real, and it’s taking a toll on our daughters. Drawing from Biblical wisdom, they share powerful Scriptures that remind us of God’s unwavering presence and His design for deep, life-giving relationships.  If you’ve ever worried that your daughter is withdrawing, struggling to find her place, or feeling unseen in a crowded room, this conversation is for you. You’ll also hear a Raising Godly Girls Minute from American Heritage Girls Founder & Executive Director Patti Garibay, offering a hopeful antidote to the loneliness epidemic.  Plus, discover how American Heritage Girls provides a place for girls to belong, connect, and form friendships that last a lifetime. Whether through AHG Troops, faith-based activities, or mentorship, AHG is fostering a culture where girls can grow in confidence, faith, and community.  Listen in for encouragement, practical wisdom, and a reminder that loneliness doesn’t have to be the norm. Your girl is seen, loved, and created for meaningful connection.  Find an American Heritage Girls Troop near you, visit americanheritagegirls.org       Add even more Biblical wisdom to your parenting quiver, visit raisinggodlygirls.com

As parents, we pray for our daughters to grow into strong, faithful, and capable women of God. But how do we ensure that the foundation we lay in childhood prepares them for the challenges and responsibilities of adulthood? In this episode of the Raising Godly Girls Podcast, host Patti Garibay is joined by Dr. Josh Mulvihill, Executive Director of Church and Family Ministry at RenewaNation and author of 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home.  Dr. Mulvihill shares his heart for family discipleship and offers practical wisdom on raising girls with both biblical faith and essential life skills. From developing emotional resilience to instilling a servant-hearted attitude, he unpacks key steps for parents who want to intentionally guide their daughters toward a Christ-centered adulthood. Patti and Dr. Mulvihill also discuss the importance of creating a family mission statement and the role of perseverance, hard work, and godly relationships in a girl’s journey to maturity.  If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the task of preparing your daughter for the future, this conversation is for you. Tune in to gain confidence, encouragement, and biblically grounded strategies for raising up the next generation of Godly women.  Learn more about Dr. Mulvihill’s work at RenewaNation.org and find his book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home wherever books are sold.  Find an American Heritage Girls Troop near you, visit americanheritagegirls.org       Add even more Biblical wisdom to your parenting quiver, visit raisinggodlygirls.com

As parents, we’ve all heard it before: “But my friend doesn’t have to do this!” Whether it’s chores, curfews, or household responsibilities, our daughters will inevitably compare their family expectations to those of their peers. In a culture that often prioritizes convenience over character-building, how can we help our girls understand that responsibility isn’t just about getting tasks done—it’s about shaping who they’re becoming?  This week on the Raising Godly Girls Podcast, we’re diving into the theme of adulting—those crucial life skills that set our daughters up for success. Rachael and Melissa discuss why family responsibilities matter, even when they don’t feel “fair,” and how biblical wisdom can help us stay the course. We’ll explore Proverbs 31:27, which highlights the virtue of diligence and care within the home, and share practical ways to make family expectations a foundation for future leadership and service.  Plus, we’ll hear a Raising Godly Girls Minute from AHG Founder & Executive Director Patti Garibay, who reminds us that childhood chores are more than just tasks—they’re essential training grounds for maturity, capability, and godly confidence.  If you’ve ever wrestled with the tension between setting high expectations and responding to your daughter’s comparisons, this episode will encourage you to stand firm, knowing that the work you’re doing today will bless her in the future.  Subscribe now and join us as we navigate the journey of raising responsible, faith-filled young women—one intentional conversation at a time.  Find an American Heritage Girls Troop near you, visit americanheritagegirls.org       Add even more Biblical wisdom to your parenting quiver, visit raisinggodlygirls.com

Adulthood may seem like a distant milestone for your daughter, but the habits, skills, and values she builds now will shape her ability to navigate life with confidence and faith. In this episode of the Raising Godly Girls Podcast, co-hosts Rachael and Melissa dive into the concept of “adulting” and why it’s about far more than just paying bills or managing a household. True Biblical adulthood involves responsibility, wisdom, and a heart that seeks to serve God and others.  Drawing from Romans 12:4-6, the conversation highlights the importance of teaching girls everyday life skills—laundry, budgeting, meal prep—not as mundane tasks, but as ways to glorify God through stewardship and responsibility. Learning to “adult” isn’t just about independence; it’s about living out God’s calling with integrity, resilience, and wisdom.  Through practical insights and personal stories, Rachael and Melissa discuss how to instill these values in your daughter, offering key conversation points to encourage responsibility, Biblical decision-making, and healthy independence. Whether it’s involving her in daily tasks, teaching her to manage money wisely, or using moments of overlap in your routine to engage her in learning, this episode is packed with actionable ideas.  Plus, hear how the American Heritage Girls’ Badge Programs equips girls with real-world skills that will serve them for a lifetime, from auto care to money management. If you’re looking for ways to prepare your daughter to thrive in adulthood while keeping her faith at the center of her life, this episode is a must-listen.  Find an American Heritage Girls Troop near you, visit americanheritagegirls.org       Add even more Biblical wisdom to your parenting quiver, visit raisinggodlygirls.com 

What makes summer camp more than just s’mores and singalongs? In this inspiring episode of the Raising Godly Girls Podcast, host Patti Garibay sits down with Amy Lowe, Director of WinShape Camps for Girls, to explore how the camp experience uniquely shapes young girls into confident, Christ-like women. From building resilience to deepening faith, camp offers so much more than a break from the routine.  Amy shares compelling stories and practical insights about how outdoor adventures and meaningful friendships help girls navigate challenges, overcome fears, and develop a lasting identity rooted in Christ. Patti and Amy also discuss the surprising health benefits of time in God’s creation, highlighting how fresh air and outdoor play can reduce stress and restore joy.  For moms wondering how camp might help their daughters thrive, this episode is packed with wisdom. You’ll hear about strategies to combat homesickness, the spiritual growth that blossoms at camp, and how intentional relationships with peers and counselors guide girls toward healthier, faith-filled friendships.  Whether you're exploring day camps or overnight options, Amy offers tips on preparing your daughter—and yourself—for an unforgettable summer experience. Learn how camps like WinShape lower financial barriers through scholarships and creative fundraising opportunities, making camp accessible for all families.  Tune in for encouragement, heartfelt stories, and practical advice on raising resilient, Christ-following girls who are prepared to shine in the world beyond the campfire glow. Don’t miss this insightful conversation about the power of camp to build strong girls and even stronger faith.  Learn more about Amy and her work with WinShape Camps at camps.winshape.com  Find an American Heritage Girls Troop near you, visit americanheritagegirls.org       Add even more Biblical wisdom to your parenting quiver, visit raisinggodlygirls.com

Summer camp sounds magical—campfires, s’mores, and outdoor adventure—but for many moms and girls, the thought of camp sparks uncertainty and fear. In this episode of the Raising Godly Girls Podcast, co-hosts Rachael and Melissa dive into how parents can help girls face those fears and embrace the transformative power of camp. Whether you're an “indoor cat” or a seasoned outdoor adventurer, this episode offers practical tips and spiritual wisdom to help your daughter step confidently into the camp experience.  Melissa shares insights on the growth and resilience camp can spark, while Rachael explores how fear can be a signal to prepare rather than a reason to avoid new experiences. Hear how AHG empowers families to embrace outdoor adventures through meaningful programming and resources, and be inspired by a special Raising Godly Girls Minute from American Heritage Girls Founder & Executive Director, Patti Garibay, on keeping girls safe at camp while equipping them with discernment and courage.  Scripture offers the ultimate encouragement. Proverbs 2:11 reminds us, “Discretion will protect you, and understanding will guard you,” while 2 Timothy 1:7 calls us to overcome fear with God-given power, love, and self-control. These truths form a foundation for preparing girls to not just survive camp but thrive in faith and fun.  Whether your family is camping rookies or seasoned pros, this conversation will help you see camp as an opportunity for growth, adventure, and resilience-building that lasts long after the tents come down. Join us as we encourage moms and girls to squash fear, embrace adventure, and discover all that God has in store.  Find an American Heritage Girls Troop near you, visit americanheritagegirls.org       Add even more Biblical wisdom to your parenting quiver, visit raisinggodlygirls.com