That All May Be Welcome
The 1994 Northridge earthquake caused extensive damage to our existing
seventy-five-year-old structure to the point that the membership decided
to erect a new church in its place. Our current quarters meet all the
building code requirements for handicap accessibility. The completion
of the new structure became the starting point for Emerson's commitment
to ensure that when a person with a disability comes through our doors,
he or she will be welcomed and become fully integrated into church
life. Our religious values affirm our belief in the inherent worth
and dignity of every person. Our faith calls us to not only begin the
task of removing all barriers to persons with disabilities in our congregation,
but also to celebrate the unique gifts and talents that people with
disabilities bring to our religious community.
Communication
Visitors to our Sunday service who have limited vision will find the mixture of natural and artificial lighting more than adequate to meet their needs. Nevertheless, a large-print order of service can be obtained at the welcome desk if necessary.
The order of service, as well as the newsletter, the church directory, and meeting minutes are provided electronically to people who are blind and have access to a computer equipped with screen-reading software.
This Web site is designed using CSS to be accessible to those using assistive reading devices.
Attitude
People with disabilities are fully integrated into all aspects of church life, serving on committees and as part of the church leadership. Those who have special needs are encouraged to contact the committee by calling the church office at (818) 887-6101 or via e-mail at .
Architecture
Designated accessible parking places are located near accessible entrances to our single-story facility; which provides unimpeded ingress and egress to the sanctuary and social area without the need for a ramp.
Inside the sanctuary, a ramp is provided to the chancel that has a smooth handrail 32 inches above the ramp surface.
Those using wheelchairs will find it easy to get around because all doorways have a clear opening of at least 32 inches. In addition, all doors have lever or push handles.
Seating within the sanctuary can be easily rearranged so that wheelchair users can sit with the rest of the congregation, not just in front or back, or in the aisles.
Our flexible seating space can easily provide extra legroom for people using crutches, walkers, braces, or casts.
All bathrooms throughout our facility are fully accessible.
Grab bars are provided on each side of all accessible toilets.
Kitchen and restroom sinks have 29 inches of clearance from the floor to the bottom of the sink.
All restrooms have ample turning space for wheelchair users.
Soap and towel dispensers are conveniently located no higher than 40 inches from the floor.
All water fountains in each building are easily usable from a wheelchair.
