Creating Space to Belong Capital Campaign: Accessibility

We believe our space should be a true community for our community, and we're excited to continue in our campaign to make that a reality. By September 28, 2025, we aim to raise $750,000 in pledges to fund proposed improvements. These upgrades will ensure our space is more hospitable, safe, and accessible for everyone, allowing us to continue our mission of welcoming others with open arms.

Read this reflection by All Souls member, Shay Dowley:

The value of accessibility in a church extends far beyond physical modifications; it is a theological commitment to welcoming and including everyone, reflecting the gospel message that all are created in God's image. According to Sandra Peoples the author of Accessible Church: A Gospel-Centered Vision for Including People With Disabilities and Their Families, accessibility is an issue of love, justice, hospitality, mercy, and witness: showing the world what the kingdom looks like when all belong. Her perspective is that accessibility isn’t an “extra” ministry, charity or aesthetically driven —it's part of what church is.

Here at All Souls Fellowship, we are proactively planning for inclusion rather than just reacting or accommodating.

Creating A Space to Belong capital campaign has come to recognize, accessibility ≠ accommodation. Accommodation is reactive (fixing a barrier after it’s pointed out). Accessibility is proactive (anticipating needs and preparing in advance). Our big picture is, "Preparing for Accessibility" through a systems-wide lens on church life (e.g., programs, environment, policies). A community where the whole church is included, depicting relational and pastoral intentionality, ensuring the church supports the entire lifespan of our members and guests.

S. LaShay Dowley PhD, LPC, MAMFT, CST, NCC, CPCS 

Founder, CEO, Therapist, Director of Clinical Affairs, Enduring Connections Counseling Group, LLC.