Accessible Congregations

Barrier Free Grant

Helping congregations break down barriers

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Communities Accessible to All

ADN partners with congregations to create barrier-free community life for all people. Our Barrier-Free Grant program offers financial assistance to Anabaptist congregations for projects that facilitate barrier-free community life, mutual awareness, caring support, and accessibility education.

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a middle-aged woman in a wheelchair on an accessible swing raises her arms with a look of joy on her face
Procedure

BFG Application Process:

  • Develop the idea for a project that increases accessibility or a program that nurtures belonging for people with disabilities.
  • Determine a pastor, advocate, or lay leader to apply for the grant. If you have questions about the grant or eligibility, contact ADN.
  • Complete the application and submit it to Anabaptist Disabilities Network.
  • ADN staff will contact the applicant with any questions or concerns.
  • ADN will make a decision based on how well the project meets the vision of increasing physical accessibility or attitudinal awareness and inclusion.
  • ADN will notify the congregation via email or phone call about the grant approval or denial. If approved, ADN will mail a check to the congregation.
  • Once completed, the congregation will submit photos and an update to ADN, with the potential of ADN publicizing on the blog, social media, and other forms of communication.
Financial Policy

Funding Details:

  • Fund amounts are $100-500.
  • Funds requested must be no more than 50% of the total project cost.
  • Funds must be used within one year of receipt.
  • Funds not used for the designated project must be donated to ADN or another disability-related project.
  • ADN awards up to $4,000 in grants per year, dependent on the availability of funds. If an application is submitted after ADN has reached this limit, the application may be awarded the funds in the next fiscal year.
Guidelines

Successful Grant Applications Include:

  • A detailed explanation of the proposed project or program and how it will impact people with disabilities and mental illness in the congregation
  • Thoughtful inclusion of people with disabilities in the project planning
  • An opportunity for congregational volunteers and the use of local resources
  • A plan to publicize the project or program in the congregation, local community, and denomination
Remove Barriers

Access Belonging

Congregations use the Barrier Free Grant for:

  • Accessible Parking Spaces
  • ADA compliant restrooms
  • Assistive Listening Devices
  • Accessible playgrounds
  • Mental Health Trainings
  • Disability-specific Workshops
  • Large print resources
  • Community Building Programs & Projects

How will you use your grant?

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  • a small white child in a Jenny Swing
  • ramp connecting a sanctuary with the worship stage
  • accessible restroom
  • headphones sitting on charging stands