We welcome and affirm people of all abilities. We seek full participation by everyone in the life of our congregation.

Mobility

We welcome people with special access needs, and we are working to provide universal access throughout the facility.  The building was constructed in the 1920’s, and the elevator was added in the 1950’s.  Currently, the elevator offers access to the First and Second floors where most activities occur.  The Third Floor, with classrooms and a studio, is not accessible to those using a wheelchair – yet.

There is one designated parking space, for those with a placard, on Main Street in front of the building.  The curb along Main Street is cut for wheelchair access.

BRUU has three entrances.  At the Main Street entrance next to the garden, we have an elevator (450-pound capacity) big enough for an attended wheelchair. The elevator serves the Fellowship Hall, kitchen, Flamingo Lounge, and classrooms on the First Floor plus the Sanctuary, offices, Library, conference room, and classrooms on the Second Floor.

The other two entrances have steps.  The main entrance is underneath the Gothic tower at the corner of Church and Main streets.  For nearly a century people have complsained about climbing up and down steps designed by architect Albert Speiden that lead from the entrance foyer to the Sanctuary and Fellowship Hall.  The BRUU Office entrance on Church Street also requires using steps to go to the first or second floor.
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On the First Floor, from the Fellowship Hall there is a unisex accessible bathroom and the Flamingo Lounge is accessible with a slight ramp.
On the Second Floor, from the Sanctuary the Library and classrooms 206/208 are accessible with a slight ramp.
On the Third Floor, classrooms 304/306 and the studio are not accessible for those using a wheelchair.

Sight

Large print hymnals and Orders of Service are always available. We also have a braille hymnal. Please ask any usher for assistance. If you would like an orientation tour of the campus during the week, contact the church office to make arrangements.

Hearing

We have wire loop technology connected to our PA system. During all church meeting and workshops, everyone wishing to speak from the audience is strongly encouraged to use the portable microphones so those who are hard of hearing are not excluded.

Chemical Sensitivity

We use odorless or battery-powered candles.

Special Needs Children

If you want your child to participate in the religious education program and feel that they may require special accommodation due to learning disabilities or behavioral issues, please contact the Director of Religious Education in advance so the best possible arrangements can be made.

Pastoral Care

We provide pastoral care to all members regardless of ability. To build the beloved community, the volunteers on the care team receive special training to assist those who may feel unwelcome, patronized or marginalized because of their disability. They may not be able to fully remedy every situation, but they can provide a compassionate ear and a willingness to enlist the help of others. If you have a hidden disability that you think it’s important for someone to know, please contact a member of the pastoral care team or contact the minister to share your information in confidence.

Service Animals

We have grassy areas where service animals may relieve themselves. If you have any questions not answered or concerns not addressed, please contact the church office to seek further information.