Mesa Parks, Recreation and Communities Facilities Renews Certified Autism Center™ Designation, Continues Enhancing Accessibility

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~ Mesa, Arizona - The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) has recently renewed the designation of Mesa's Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities Department as a Certified Autism Center (CAC). This certification recognizes the department's commitment to inclusivity and providing tailored support for individuals with autism and sensory needs.

In 2019, Mesa Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities became the first organization to receive this certification. Since then, over 80% of their community-facing staff have completed up-to-date training on autism and sensory needs. This training equips them with a better understanding of best practices and skills to welcome and support every visitor.

Andrea Moore, Director of Mesa Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities, expressed her excitement about renewing their CAC designation through IBCCES. She stated that this certification is a testament to their commitment to creating inclusive spaces for all families. It also elevates the quality of their services by fostering an environment of understanding, respect, and excellence in every activity they offer.

Myron Pincomb, Chairman of IBCCES board, also shared his pride in continuing their partnership with Mesa Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities. He commended the department's ongoing dedication to creating welcoming spaces where every person feels included and supported.

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Since becoming a CAC, Mesa Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities has implemented several accessibility initiatives. These include hiring an inclusion programmer, emphasizing inclusion services on their website, redesigning their website for better accessibility, creating quiet rooms at Red Mountain Center and Mesa Convention Center & Amphitheater.

Recreation specialists Talia and Randall shared how the training has helped them understand different sensory stimuli that may affect individuals with autism. They emphasized the importance of creating sensory-friendly spaces rather than expecting individuals to adapt to the world around them.

Grecia, a recreation programmer for the department, also highlighted how her training will positively impact her work in Special Events by creating more inclusive and sensory-friendly experiences. She mentioned implementing strategies such as quiet zones, sensory-friendly hours, visual schedules, and trained staff to better support attendees with autism.

Aaron, a coordinator for Mesa Parks and Recreation, stated that the IBCCES training will have a significant impact on the City of Mesa Special Events office. It will provide them with the skills and knowledge to better serve event attendees and ensure that everyone feels welcomed and comfortable.

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Mesa's Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities Department's certification also contributes to the city's designation as an Autism Certified City (ACC). This designation ensures that both visitors and residents have access to a wide range of organizations trained and certified to welcome and assist individuals with autism and sensory sensitivities across various industries.

IBCCES has been a leader in providing autism, sensory, and neurodiversity training for professionals worldwide for over two decades. They offer training from subject matter experts and autistic self-advocates, along with long-term support, continuous learning opportunities, onsite reviews, and renewal requirements to ensure continued growth and lasting impact.

To further support inclusivity efforts, Mesa Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities Department is featured on the IBCCES Accessibility App. This app is free to download and provides individuals with disabilities real-time guidance on certified destinations, sensory-friendly spaces, and tailored recommendations. It aims to ensure seamless and enjoyable experiences for everyone by connecting users to accessible locations worldwide.

IBCCES also provides access to resources such as CertifiedAutismCenter.com and AutismTravel.com. These free online tools list certified locations and professionals for families seeking inclusive destinations.

Mesa Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities Department's renewal of their CAC designation through IBCCES showcases their commitment to creating inclusive spaces for all individuals. Their efforts contribute towards making Mesa an Autism Certified City (ACC) where everyone feels welcomed, included, and supported.

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