We have taken the following steps to ensure that no one is excluded from full participation in the life of our fellowship.
Please let us know if you need accommodations not mentioned below. If you would like an orientation tour of the campus during the week, please contact the church office to make arrangements.
Mobility
To be fully accessible to those using wheelchairs or experiencing limited mobility, our sanctuary and fellowship hall have entry ramps and a lift. We have one fully accessible restroom on the main floor and two partially accessible restrooms in the fellowship hall.
Our family ministry classrooms for younger age groups are fully accessible as is the UU cottage. Our church office is in an older building and is not accessible yet, so church staff often hold meetings in our accessible main building.
Hearing
Enhanced listening devices are available. Please ask any usher for assistance. During all church meetings and workshops, anyone wishing to speak from the audience is strongly encouraged to use the portable microphones, so that those who are hard of hearing are not excluded. We do not currently have accommodations in place for people with profound hearing loss.
Sight
Our service leaders and minister regularly provide visual descriptions in solidarity with the visually impaired. We also have an accessible Order of Service each week that is compatible with screen readers. We also welcome registered service animals as described below.
Neurodiversity
Our sanctuary, classrooms, and learning spaces are intentionally designed to be safe, welcoming, and supportive for all types of learners, including those who are neurodivergent.
We begin by creating environments that honor different sensory needs, offering flexible seating, quiet areas, and access to tools such as fidgets, headphones, or visual supports.
Clear routines, predictable schedules, and simple visual cues help children in the Family Ministry program feel grounded and confident as they move through activities.
Family Ministry staff emphasize inclusive teaching practices that recognize multiple ways of learning and expressing understanding.
Lessons are presented through a variety of formats: story, movement, art, discussion, and hands-on activities, so every learner can engage in ways that work best for them.
Above all, within our UU Family, we cultivate a culture of respect, patience, and belonging, where differences are valued, communication is open, and every learner is encouraged to participate at their own pace and in their own way.
If you anticipate that your child or loved one may require special accommodations to attend UUFH due to learning differences or a disability, please email the Director of Family Ministry, Sunday Parker, at RE@uufhnc.org or call her at (828)435-2655. She is eager to ensure everyone feels welcome and has a meaningful experience at UUFH.
Pastoral Care
We provide pastoral care to all members regardless of ability. To build the beloved community, Rev. George and Family Ministry Director, Sunday Parker, are trained to assist those who may feel unwelcome, patronized or marginalized because of their disability.
Our ministerial team and volunteer pastoral associates provide compassionate care. If you have a hidden disability that you think it’s important for someone to know, please contact the minister to share your information in confidence.
Service Animals
We welcome individuals who use registered service animals to assist with disabilities. Registered service animals are permitted on the premises in accordance with the law and are recognized as important partners in accessibility and inclusion.
We ask that service animals remain under the control of their handler at all times so that our shared spaces remain safe and welcoming for everyone. We have grassy areas where service animals may relieve themselves.
Additional Support
We want to affirm and include people of all abilities at UUFH. If you have questions or concerns not addressed here, will you please let us know?
We will be happy to provide further information or other needed accommodations. Thank you!