Paving the Way to Access

Step 1:
Form an Accessibility Team

Why this matters:
Accessibility is everyone’s responsibility. Forming a diverse accessibility team ensures that multiple perspectives are represented, including those with disabilities.

What to do:

Gather a small group of individuals who represent different roles in your faith community (leadership, facilities, communications, worship, etc.).
Whenever possible, include people with lived experience of disability or those who regularly engage with accessibility needs.
Clarify your team’s purpose, set regular meeting times, and assign roles (note-taker, facilitator, liaison to leadership).
Commit to ongoing learning about accessibility, inclusion, and disability justice.
self-audit

Tip:
If your organization already has a DEI, outreach, or facilities team, consider embedding accessibility as a standing focus area.

Step 2:
Conduct Self-Audits

Why this matters:
Self-audits provide a snapshot of your current accessibility strengths and barriers across different areas (physical, digital, communication, emotional, and theological).

What to do:

create a team!
this is about identifying opportunities, not assigning blame…
Use the Accessibility Self-Audit Tools provided on this site to assess each area of your organization.
Be honest and specific
Document examples, photos, or notes that can guide future improvements.
Encourage participation from people who actually use the spaces or services being evaluated.

Tip:
If possible, conduct audits with a partner or small group. This can reduce bias,(opportunity for multiple perspectives) and generate more well-rounded feedback.

Step 3:
Review Audits & Create Action Steps

Why this matters:
Data from your self-audit becomes meaningful only when it leads to action.

What to do:

Review your completed audits as a team. Highlight recurring issues, unmet standards, or low-scoring areas.
Prioritize changes based on impact and feasibility. Ask: “What will make the biggest difference for inclusion right now?”
Break large goals into manageable steps, assigning a person and timeline for each one.
Celebrate existing strengths and quick wins along the way.

Tip:
Use a shared spreadsheet or action plan template to track progress and accountability.

Step 4:
Consult with an ADA Expert

Why this matters:
While self-audits are a great starting point, some accessibility barriers require professional input or technical expertise.

What to do:

Consult local ADA Centers, accessibility specialists, or disability advocacy organizations for guidance.
Contact the ADA National Network (adata.org) for free technical assistance and training.
If your organization is affiliated with a larger network (such as a diocese, synod, or denominational office), check for accessibility liaisons or committees.

Tip:
Many improvements—especially communication and policy changes—can be implemented before major construction or renovations.

Step 5:
Monitor Progress & Celebrate Growth

Why this matters:
Accessibility is not a one-time project but an ongoing practice of hospitality and justice.

What to do:

Revisit your audits annually to see what has improved and where new barriers may have emerged.
Update your action plan as you complete steps and discover new needs.
Share your successes publicly—this can inspire others to begin their own accessibility journey.
Continue learning through workshops, disability ministry networks, and community partnerships.
reporting to council…

Tip:
Consider creating an “Accessibility Commitment Statement” or webpage that outlines your progress and future goals.

Accessible Church

Step 1:
Form an Accessibility Team

Step 2:
Conduct Self-Audits

Step 3:
Review Audits & Create Action Steps

Step 4:
Consult with an ADA Expert

Step 5:
Monitor Progress & Celebrate Growth

About us

Quick links

Need help?

Accessible Church