Project AIM: That All May Be Welcome

Unitarian Church of Sharon
4 N. Main St.
Sharon, MA 02067

781-784-3652
E-mail UCS

Why is Accessibility Important?
If you were a person with a disability, you’d be a member of America’s largest minority group. It crosses racial, ethnic, religious, economic and social lines. It may now, or someday, include a neighbor, a loved one, or you. (From What Do You Say After You See They’re Disabled)
People with disabilities often feel excluded from our UU communities because so many of our congregations have yet to remove the barriers that keep them out; barriers of architecture, attitude and communication.
Our religious values affirm the belief that every person is valuable and brings their own unique gifts and talents to us and our community.
UUs have a history of fighting for justice. Universal access is a justice issue that calls us to deepen relationships and break the barriers that exist in society at large, in our congregations, and in ourselves.

Our Progress Towards Universal Accessibility

(1992) 1st Architectural survey recommends elevator
(1993-Present) Funds raised for architectural plans
(4/04) Board forms Accessibility Task Force
(5/04) Internal accessibility needs assessment done
(6/04) Congregation votes to explore accessibility options; town prefers elevator & no changes to front of church
(6/04-1/05) Meetings with 3 preservation architects
(6/04-Present) Estimates for elevators, lifts, construction & site visits to/conversations with other churches
(6/04-Present) Funding research/discussions with donors
(9/04-Present) Building awareness
(10/04) Railings and grab bars installed. Bathroom made accessible
(5/04) Congregational meeting/vote on planning phase

What Will Our Building Look Like Once It’s Accessible?
According to the Accessibility Committee’s research, past research by members, and recent expert opinions, the most feasible, cost-effective, and historically-compatible option for making our building physically accessible is to:

Install a “LULA” elevator, which looks and functions like a normal elevator but runs on simpler, less expensive equipment and with lower maintenance fees.
The elevator would be able to make 3 stops: ground level, vestry, and sanctuary.
The elevator would be located at the back of the building, by the back door of the vestry and stairwell leading to the boiler room. It would be enclosed in a newly-constructed entryway that would become the main entrance for everyone.
There would be at least 1 reserved parking spot for anyone using a wheelchair.

Why Use Architectural Planning Services to Get Started?

We would gain knowledge of specific structural issues, viable design options, project scope and estimated cost.
This is information we cannot accurately get any other way.
As part of the visioning process, the entire congregation will be able to contribute their ideas to form a building plan.
A professionally-designed accessibility addition would be compatible with future expansion of the building.
Getting approval from the Historical Commission to add on to our historic building will be made much easier if we are using an architect skilled in historical preservation.
Working with a reputable, professional planner is a prerequisite for bank loans, grants and many business and individual donations that may be part of our fundraising efforts.
Ethical fundraising means that we have a carefully planned project, fully disclosed to donors.
This approach is in line with our history of building stewardship; any changes to our carefully maintained building should be done equally well.

What is Included in the Architectural Planning Fees?

Existing Building Conditions Analysis
–Prioritized List of Needs and Maintenance Plan
Discussions with Congregation on Space Needs
Conceptual Design
– Feasible Alternatives with Rough Cost Estimates
– Phasing Possibilities and Outline of Specifications (for 2)
– Detailed Cost Estimates (for top 2 designs)
Schematic Design
– Refine Selected Option/Present to Congregation
– Prepare Floor Plans and Site Plan
Fee for Planning Services: $22,000

Fundraising Possibilities

UUA Fundraising Consultant Services/Other UU Resources

Initial Assessment
Feasibility Study (for Capital Campaign)
Specific Advice for Running a Campaign

Other UU Resources

Chalice Lighter Program
Tips for Working with Banks
Loan Guarantees

Within Our Church

Donations & Pledges from Congregation
Gifts from Family/Friends of Members & Past Members
Gifts in Celebration or in Memory of Someone
Existing Accessibility Account
Goodwill Alliance Account ? Approx. $3,000
Fundraising Events: Concerts, etc.

In the Community/Grants

Meetinghouse Preservation Fund
Appeal to Residents & Nearby Businesses
In-Kind or Discounted Goods & Services
Sharon Historical Society
Government/Town: Community Block Grants etc.
Community Preservation Act Funds
Foundations? Jane’s Trust (or Others Interested in Preservation, Disability Issues)

Putting Our Faith Into Action
This project will create access to this historic building for all people. In so doing, we will be making real this congregation’s most cherished values: openness, tolerance, respect and diversity. This is a powerful way to put our faith into action, and proclaim that vision that we see ourselves as a vital part of the larger community’s life in the years ahead. ? Rev. Deborah Cayer

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Barriers to Access

Architectural Drawings

PowerPoint Presentation