Everyone deserves an opportunity to participate in community life without unnecessary barriers. For places that host public events — such as art centers, educational venues, and nonprofit spaces — accessibility features ensure visitors of all abilities can feel welcome.

By making intentional design choices, organizations communicate that each individual’s experience matters. This approach respects guests’ diverse needs, fosters genuine inclusion, and builds community goodwill.

Why Accessibility Matters

Many potential attendees face mobility challenges, sensory differences, or other conditions that can complicate navigation in standard facilities. Simple adjustments can remove these barriers, allowing everyone to enjoy performances, exhibits, and classes:

• Equitable participation: Guests who use wheelchairs, assistive devices, or have low vision gain safe and comfortable access to the same events and amenities as other visitors.
• Civic engagement: When people feel included, they are more inclined to give back to their community, volunteer, and spread the word about positive experiences.
• Social connection: Inclusive spaces encourage individuals of varying abilities to bond over shared interests and passions.

Yet accessibility isn’t limited to physical spaces. It also involves addressing hearing and communication needs, as well as considering elements such as lighting, seat arrangements, and crowd flow. Each aspect creates a welcoming environment where people can focus on the moment rather than on how to get around.

Accessibility Features at Gorton Center

Gorton Center, located in Lake Forest, is proud to feature accessible design and thoughtful planning. Through features noted on our Planning Your Visit page and at The John & Nancy Hughes Theater, all visitors can take part in a variety of events and programs.

Our accessibility features at Gorton Center include:

• Wheelchair ramps and elevator: The building has convenient ramps, along with an elevator that connects different floors. These additions help guests who use wheelchairs or walkers move around without obstacles.
• Accessible seating: Within the John & Nancy Hughes Theater, designated seats allow extra room for guests who prefer or require more space to maneuver. This thoughtful layout ensures a comfortable view of the stage.
• Hearing loop system: The theater is fitted with a loop system to accommodate patrons who use hearing aids. Audio is transmitted directly, minimizing background noise and making it easier to follow dialogue or musical performances.
• Reserved parking: Accessible parking spots are close to entrances, which is critical for visitors with mobility concerns, parents with strollers, and anyone seeking easier access.

Each of these measures aims to create a relaxed and welcoming setting. With staff and volunteers available for directions and inquiries, Gorton Center encourages every visitor to feel at ease from the moment they arrive.

How Accessibility Features Help Everyone

Accessibility features meet the needs of guests with disabilities and provide a host of benefits for all, including:

• Smooth navigation: Parents pushing strollers, older adults who prefer to avoid stairs, or individuals recovering from injuries can move freely and confidently.
• Positive atmosphere: When people see an organization investing in thoughtful infrastructure, they often sense a deeper level of hospitality and feel more inclined to support it.
• Unified community: By removing barriers, Gorton Center fosters gatherings that reflect the entire community. People of all backgrounds and abilities can connect over a shared love of art, education, or volunteerism.

At Gorton Center, our nonprofit tenants also benefit from accessibility features; they can plan events knowing their participants will have access to the tools and technologies that make the experience fulfilling. This level of readiness helps minimize last-minute logistical challenges and underscores a commitment to inclusivity.

Reflecting Collective Values

In a time when equity and empathy are deeply important, accessible design decisions highlight an organization’s values. True inclusion means considering the full spectrum of needs. Ramps, elevators, hearing loops, and strategically placed seating signal that every person’s presence is valued. For nonprofits that build relationships on mutual respect, these details further illustrate how seriously they take the principle of serving all residents.

Moreover, these elements nurture a sense of belonging, which can lead to strong community bonds. An accessible center becomes a place where neighbors routinely gather, discuss, create, and learn from each other. This inclusive spirit underpins the programming, ensuring no one is left on the outside looking in.

Join Us at Gorton Center — All Are Welcome!

Gorton Center’s commitment to accessible architecture, technology, and staff support ensures that each visit is a welcoming experience. By championing these features, we promote civic engagement, expand our reach, and enrich our community’s cultural life.

Explore Gorton Center’s upcoming events, classes, volunteer opportunities, and more. Join us in celebrating art, knowledge, and human connection in a place designed to honor and include everyone. We look forward to welcoming you soon!Gorton Center is a nonprofit center for the arts and a gathering place at the heart of Lake Forest, Illinois. We offer a wide range of classes, professional live music and events, and film screenings for all ages. Help us provide vibrant social experiences and exceptional arts and culture by supporting our work today!