Why Accessibility Is the Smartest Sustainability Strategy for Faith Communities

For many faith communities, sustainability means balancing budgets, recruiting volunteers, and securing grants. But one critical factor is often overlooked: accessibility.

Accessibility is sometimes framed as a compliance requirement or a moral issue. But it is also a strategic lever for sustainability. Congregations that embrace accessibility improve their financial stability, operational efficiency, and long-term impact.

Accessibility Strengthens Member Retention

Declining attendance is a widespread concern. Pew Research Center reports that fewer than half of U.S. adults regularly attend religious services, a number that continues to trend downward (Pew Research, 2021). For communities already facing shrinking participation, losing members because of accessibility barriers accelerates decline.

Older adults, in particular, are disproportionately affected. The World Health Organization estimates that by age 60, over 40% of adults will experience some form of disability (WHO, 2021). If faith communities aren’t prepared, they risk alienating their most consistent and generous base of supporters.
Accessibility investments like clear signage, seating flexibility, and digital accessibility can dramatically increase retention rates — and retention translates into sustainability.

Accessibility Improves Operational Efficiency

Without a plan, accessibility often means last-minute fixes. Staff scramble to reprint materials in larger fonts, locate interpreters on short notice, or rearrange spaces while people wait. These reactive measures drain resources and frustrate staff and volunteers.

By contrast, proactive accessibility planning streamlines operations. Materials are prepared in accessible formats from the start, spaces are designed with flexibility, and volunteers are trained to anticipate needs. That saves time, reduces stress, and lowers costs in the long run.

Accessibility Increases Funding Competitiveness

Grant-making bodies, corporate social responsibility programs, and local governments increasingly require demonstrated accessibility in applications. A review by the National Council on Disability found that organizations with accessibility plans were significantly more likely to secure federal and foundation funding (NCD, 2020).

For faith communities seeking external support, accessibility is no longer optional — it’s a prerequisite. Demonstrating a plan signals professionalism, accountability, and inclusivity.

Accessibility Mitigates Legal and Reputational Risk

While some houses of worship may be exempt from parts of the ADA, many associated programs — schools, daycare, food pantries, events — are not. Failure to plan for accessibility exposes communities to legal challenges, liability claims, and reputational harm.

Insurance providers also increasingly view accessibility planning as part of risk management. Proactive accessibility is not only legally wise but financially prudent (ADA National Network, 2022).

Accessibility Builds Reputation and Trust

Today’s communities are discerning. Families choosing where to belong notice whether inclusion is visible. Captioned livestreams, ramps, clear wayfinding, and sensory-friendly spaces signal that a community’s values are not just spoken but practiced.

Trust builds reputational capital — and reputational capital builds sustainability.

A Timely Call to Action

To help congregations take the first step, AccessForge created a FREE Accessibility Scorecard, available now. In January 2026, we launch a new course, Belonging By Design™ Leadership Training For Accessible Faith Communities, designed to provide staff and leaders with affordable, practical steps to embed accessibility into operations.

Accessibility is not just a matter of compliance. It is one of the smartest investments communities can make for their future.

Citations

• Pew Research Center (2021). Faith Among Americans in Decline.
• World Health Organization (2021). World Report on Ageing and Health.
• National Council on Disability (2020). Review of Accessibility in Faith-Based Programs.
• ADA National Network (2022). Places of Worship and the ADA.