Church Programs "The book "Exploration of Hospitality" by Ben D. Anderson and Pastor Huffman is not large in Volume but the message and lessons are enormous in importance. If we could all read this book and practice the lessons set forth the world would be a safer and more peaceful place. It is true as they point out “We are different from one another”, and therefore must develop “the skill of observing the other and learning about the thoughts, intentions, and feelings of the other”. The book is truly a prescription for a peaceful world.” - Walt Richey "Ben Anderson and Ted Huffman have written provocatively about hospitality in a new booklet with the subtitle 'How Wide is Your Welcome'. Reading An Exploration of Hospitality will give you new insight from their fresh and distinct perspective. Viewing the human family from the vantage point of experience in the world of disability (something we all can identify with to some degree) as it relates to hospitality gives fresh inspiration. Thank you Ted & Ben! "-- J. Sunde ***************** SEE OUR NEW YOUTH
WORKSHOP PROGRAM AND MEDIA REVIEWS:
October 8, 2015- June 4, 2013 In Peace - Pastor Molly Sasser-Goehner- Director ( thanks so much!)***************************************** Ben speaking at Sunday Services April 10th 2016 ********************************************** Do you need a speaker on the subject of Disabilities and Bullying? Ben D. Anderson will speak to your youths. K-12 schools, youth organizations and churches. See attached information ****** Read Bens Statement of Faith (pdf download) Ben D. Anderson speaks from the heart as he describes his own journey of faith and his awareness from a young age that all persons are made in the image of God. He reminds us that everyone has limitations, whether or not they have a documented disability, and he encourages us to serve God in spite of and even through our weaknesses. Ben speaks openly about his experiences as a person with a disability. His experiences that have included misdiagnosis and discrimination as well as support and affirmation of his gifts. He also offers helpful advice to parents of children with disabilities, drawing from his own insights and offering referrals to books, web sites, and support groups. Ben is a good communicator, promoting discussion and breaking down stereotypes, and his message of hope in Christ will be especially welcome to Christians in the evangelical tradition.
"What is life like for her?" "Should I
feel sorry for him?" Sometimes embarrassment makes it difficult for a person with a disability to escape the protective "box" they've built around themselves to join effectively with others. Ben's presentation helps people to learn to respond constructively to such challenges and to come away with a more positive attitude toward each other. He also helps those who have been struggling with their disability to feel more effective and hopeful. In a creative, sometimes humorous, highly anecdotal presentation, Ben describes what life is like growing up with cerebral palsy, where he found his strength and hope, and gives tips on how to relate effectively to a person with a disability.
Hear Ben speak at a church conference on
Ben D. Anderson is from Kenmare, North Dakota. Ben, born with cerebral palsy, candidly shares his life story of being misdiagnosed as mentally retarded. Eight years of his life were spent at the Anne Carlsen Center in Jamestown, North Dakota (formerly the Crippled Children School). Ben is equipped to minister to persons regarding the issues associated with disabilities. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Vocational Rehabilitation with an emphasis on community-based rehabilitation from the University of Wisconsin-Stout at Menomonie, Wisconsin. Ben co-authored a book entitled "Breaking Through" in 1981 with Rev. Dick Beckmen. This book relates to his faith as he struggles to become the person that he is. Breaking Through can be used in study groups and retreats. In 2007 he published his book entitled "IQ of 63, So What!" Going Beyond Everybody Else's Expectations. Ben travels extensively to minister in homes, congregations, youth conventions, and institutions. He is director and chief trainer of Break Through, Inc., a non-profit organization which he founded in 1978. For more information on having Ben speak with your group or an individual consultation, please contact us or phone 715-554-2739. The mission of Break Through, Incorporated is to expand awareness of and sensitivity towards people with disabilities. Break Through, Inc. offers sensitivity training to help corporations and organizations more effectively serve clients, employees, and members who have disabilities. Ben conducts workshops throughout the United States and Canada. Break Through, Inc. helps others become sensitive to the needs and desires of persons with disabilities. The needs of persons with disabilities are not only architectural. They can include the types of language and expressions used to relate to 52 million Americans who may have a disability.
Counseling.
" (Ben's) insight, as a person with a disability, has been
invaluable to us in helping to understand our daughter. "Dear Ben and
Dee: Your Christmas letter gave me a big lift and blessing. The picture of
you was most attractive. I only wish that I could meet you in person. Thank
you for your book "You've Been Chosen". Your first book and this
tells me that you should keep writing and blessing many with your message.
Let us keep
looking up to claim Divine Power that keeps coming down, sufficient for
every need. Psalm 121.--Sincerely Pastor William E. Berg.
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************** February 2010 “Early this past week Ben and Dee Anderson passed through Manhattan for a brief visit. Ben (www.bendanderson.com) has cerebal palsy and the ex-perts once (mistakenly) credited him with having an IQ of 63. But this is a fellow who refused to be defined by the limitations placed upon him by others. Today he is a college graduate, and for the past 32 years he has been advocating for the disabled. He spoke to our Healthy Relationships group last Monday, and the thing that has stuck with me is the sense of power he has gained from his acceptance of the biblical claim that each of us is special, just because God loves us. God loves you. God loves me. God loves us. God loves “them,” too. Man, that’s good news!!! “David Jones-ECM at K-State. Increase Awareness Ben has a heart for the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He offers encouragement with Biblical concepts to motivate individuals and congregations in meeting the needs of people with disabilities. * * * Your presentation was very inspiring and uplifting. I find it absolutely amazing that your CP doesn't slow you down one bit, you are an amazing man. It was also great to hear a little about your faith. I am a Christian and enjoy seeing God brought into every aspect of life, no matter your ability or disability. Thanks a million for the great presentation! You are an inspiration to many!-- Sincerely, Sara M. ( a student from St. Cloud State).
Ben at Youth Gathering. ********* A letter from a parent--. Dear Mr. Anderson: Our two daughters just got home from summer camp at Lutherhaven in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. Our oldest (who is 12) had learned a new word during her week away at camp - "disability." It's not that she was unfamiliar with the term, of course, but more that she'd never given it much thought. We have a close friend confined to a wheelchair, but as is the nature of children, our daughter always just sort of "accepted" the fact that our friend can't walk, and never looked further. But then she heard you speak at camp, and was deeply impressed by whatever it was you said. She's been talking about you ever since. Your topic was reinforced by the fact that her camp counselor uses a walker despite her young age. Our daughter came home with a much more mature understanding of human nature and the ability to see limitations as gifts and opportunities, as you've done with your ministry. I don't know what specifically you talked about at Lutherhaven, but I thank you very much for speaking. You certainly made a lasting impression on our pre-teen! Best wishes, (a parent)--2008. *** A letter to Ben: January 28, 2010 November 9th 2011 Dear Andersons, It was such a pleasure to
meet both of you and to hear your message Ben! Many of us have enjoyed your
uplifting book and wish you Godspeed in
getting the word to as many as possible.
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