We were very excited to launch Space to Belong in April! Through this initiative, congregations received sensory-friendly items to help create more welcoming, accessible, and inclusive worship environments for autistic individuals and their families. We are grateful for every congregation that applied, participated, and shared their journey with us. All selected congregations have received their items and are putting them to use at their place of worship. This post shares our 2026 Space to Belong results.
Why Space to Belong Matters
For many autistic individuals and families, sensory challenges can make participation in worship services and church activities difficult. However, small accommodations can make a significant difference!
Through Space to Belong, congregations received resources for their sensory rooms, such as:
- Noise-reducing headphones
- Fidget toys
- Sensory lighting
- Weighted stuffed animals
- Sensory wall panels and floor tiles
- Bean bag chairs
- Sensory tents
- Other sensory-friendly materials
Participating Congregations
We were blessed to have 20 churches from across the nation that participated in Space to Belong. They are listed in alphabetical order by State.
Photo Gallery
Participating churches shared a few photos with us of their sensory rooms and corners. We love to see how these spaces are coming together!
Impact
Here are a few numbers that share the impact of Space to Belong:
- 20 places of worship were provided with materials to create their sensory room or corner.
- 13 States and the District of Columbia were represented.
- 61 sensory tools and resources were distributed to participating congregations.
Survey Highlights
We asked each participating church to fill out a short survey to share their thoughts about Space to Belong. Here is some of the feedback that we have received so far:
- 100% said that it was easy to apply.
- 100% said they were likely to tell someone about the Autism Faith Network
Testimonials
A few Space to Belong participants shared additional details about their experience:
This is one of our first steps in becoming a more inclusive church. Space to Belong provided a simple way to begin loving others.
Space to Belong helped start our journey toward making our church a more welcoming and supportive place for our families of children with autism. They took the time to reach out and answer questions. Their encouragement and expertise have made a difference as our church works to improve our ministry.
It has helped build our sensory room more than what it was. Not only has it benefited children with disabilities but neurotypical kids as well.
Space to Belong has been a tremendous blessing to our church community. Through the grant, we were able to purchase sensory items that are used regularly by children and youth with autism during our worship services. These resources have helped create a more welcoming and supportive environment where youth can feel comfortable, engaged, and included.
For parents, the impact has been equally meaningful. The sensory items provide support that helps their children successfully participate in church activities, allowing parents to be more present and engaged in worship without the constant concern of managing sensory challenges. As a result, families are able to experience church together in a way that is more accessible, enjoyable, and spiritually enriching. We are grateful for the opportunity to create a space where every child truly belongs.
Final Thoughts
We extend our heartfelt thank you to every congregation, volunteer, donor, and supporter who helped make the 2026 Space to Belong initiative possible.
Together, we are helping create faith communities where autistic individuals and families can worship, serve, and belong.
Interested in Future Opportunities?
If your congregation would like to learn more about autism inclusion or participate in future Autism Faith Network initiatives, sign up for our newsletter and follow us on social media for updates.