Accesibility and Inclusion Ministry

First Unitarian Church is currently rebuilding its Accessibility and Inclusion Ministry team. In order to ensure diverse representation, we are seeking people with different forms of disability and/or who have family members who are disabled. If you are interested in joining this team, please let us know. We are also seeking allies who have skills or expertise that would be relevant to this project and who might be able to assist from time to time. In particular, we are seeking people who are disability rights advocates or activists; have knowledge in the area of accessible architecture or design; have an advanced understanding of ADA requirements; have connections to various disability and mental health advocacy groups; or have proficiency in ASL.

At First Unitarian, we welcome and affirm people of all abilities. We have taken the following steps to ensure that no one is excluded from full participation in the life of our church.

Mobility

Our sanctuary, fellowship hall (Daniel Hall), all gender restroom, meeting rooms and most religious education classrooms are accessible to those using wheelchairs or having limited mobility. The AIM team is working with church leaders to extend full access to the chapel, DLRE office, youth meeting spaces, chancel, and additional restrooms.

Sight

Large print hymnals and Orders of Service are always available. Please ask any usher for assistance. If you would like an orientation tour of the campus during the week, contact the church office to make arrangements.

Hearing

During all church meeting and workshops, anyone wishing to speak from the audience is strongly encouraged to use the portable microphones so those who are hard of hearing are not excluded. Zoom services and meetings are equipped with live transcription.

Children with Disabilities

If you want your child to participate in the religious exploration program and feel that they may require special accommodation due to learning disabilities or behavioral issues, please contact the Director of Lifespan Religious Exploration in advance so the best possible arrangements can be made.

Pastoral Care

We provide pastoral care to all members regardless of ability. We may not be able to fully remedy every situation, but we can provide a compassionate ear and a willingness to enlist the help of others. If you have a hidden disability that you think it’s important for someone to know, please contact a member of the Befrienders team or contact the minister to share your information in confidence.

Service Animals

We have grassy areas where service animals may relieve themselves. If you have any questions not answered or concerns not addressed, please contact the church office to seek further information.