A Nonprofit’s Guide to Building an Accessible Website in WordPress

Accessibility is more than compliance—it’s care in design.

For nonprofits, building a website that works for everyone means reflecting the values you carry in your programs: equity, clarity, belonging. WordPress, when used thoughtfully, offers a strong foundation for this kind of inclusive digital presence.

Here’s how your organization can build an accessible WordPress website—without adding complexity.

1. Start With a Theme That Respects the Basics

Not all themes are built for accessibility. Choose one that’s:

• WCAG 2.1 compliant
• Screen reader-friendly
• Built with semantic HTML

Look for themes labeled “accessibility-ready” in the WordPress theme repository. These often include proper heading structure, keyboard navigation, and ARIA landmarks.

Accessibility begins with structure—not decoration.

2. Use True Headings, Not Visual Shortcuts

Headings organize content for assistive technology. Don’t use bold text or large fonts in place of h2, h3, or h4 tags.

Tips:

• Use only one h1 per page
• Follow a clear hierarchy (h2 > h3 > h4)
• Avoid skipping levels

Well-structured headings help screen readers—and improve SEO at the same time.

3. Make Links Descriptive

Avoid vague link text like “Click here” or “Read more.” Instead:

• Use phrases like “Download our 2024 Annual Report” or “Sign the Petition”
• Ensure link color contrast meets WCAG 2.1 AA standards
• Underline links or include a visual cue

Clear, specific links build trust and save time—especially for users with screen readers.

4. Add Alt Text With Intention

Every meaningful image should include descriptive alt text.

Use it to:

• Convey essential visual information
• Describe photos for users who can’t see them
• Help search engines understand your content

Skip alt text for decorative flourishes—but use it consistently for staff photos, graphics, and diagrams.

5. Ensure Forms Are Navigable by Keyboard

Donation forms, contact forms, and newsletter sign-ups must:

• Be navigable via Tab and Shift+Tab
• Include clear focus indicators
• Label fields properly with for and id attributes

Use plugins like Gravity Forms or WPForms, which offer built-in accessibility support. Test every form yourself using only a keyboard.

6. Be Thoughtful With Color and Contrast

Text should never rely on color alone. And low contrast may look “modern,” but it’s often unreadable.

Use tools like WebAIM’s contrast checker to ensure:

• Text and background meet at least a 4.5:1 contrast ratio
• Buttons are visible against background colors
• Hover and focus states stand out

Design can be soft and beautiful—and still inclusive.

7. Test With Real Tools—and Real People

The best way to test accessibility is to use assistive tech or invite feedback from users with lived experience.

You can also:

• Use VoiceOver (Mac) or NVDA (Windows) screen readers
• Test in dark mode or zoomed views
• Run audits with the WAVE tool or Lighthouse in Chrome

Accessibility is a process—not a checklist. Revisit often. Iterate gently.

Final Thoughts

An accessible website is an open door. It says: you are welcome here. Your experience matters. You belong.

Accessibility is built into our nonprofit website design process, from page structure and contrast through forms and donation flows. It gives every supporter a clear path to act.

If you’re unsure where to begin, we’d be honored to help you start.