With 5-16.5% of participants have symptoms associated with sensory processing problems And In the United States, 1 in 45 adults have autismmore and more places and destinations are is committed to ensuring that autistic and sensory-sensitive visitors feel welcome and supported when attending meetings and events.
THE Miami Beach Convention Center (MBCC) is the last place to receive Certified Center for Autism (CAC) designation by the International Council for Accreditation and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), a global organization that provides professional training and certification in autism and neurodiversity to healthcare, education and business professionals worldwide.
“One in six people have sensory needs, and this focus on accessibility demonstrates their team’s commitment to being a leader in the industry,” said Myron Pincomb, IBCCES Board Chair. “By earning the Certified Autism Center designation, the Miami Beach Convention Center joins a growing number of organizations making a significant impact on accessibility.”
Related: Two Ohio Facilities Earn Certified Autism Center Designation
The establishment’s obtaining of this designation follows Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau obtaining its CAC designation in April.
Need to know: Owned by the City of Miami Beach, MBCC now offers an accessible experience for all events and visitors, with a range of ADA-compliant features that include accessible parking, curb ramps, restrooms, elevators and automatic entry doors. The facility also offers Braille signage and visual interpretation via the Aira app for visually impaired attendees.
How it works: The certification process involved comprehensive training for MBCC customer-facing staff, Oak View Groupproviding them with the knowledge and skills needed to support people with autism, according to MBCC officials. IBCCES conducted an on-site assessment and provided recommendations for further improvements within the facility.
What they say : “Achieving the Certified Autism Center designation marks a significant milestone in our commitment to inclusion, and I am extremely proud of the dedication and accomplishments of our staff,” said MBCC Executive Director Freddie Peterson. “This autism certification allows the Miami Beach Convention Center to better serve visitors with special needs, setting a new standard for accessibility in the event industry.”
And after: Peterson also said MBCC plans to add IBCCES sensory guides to its informational website and has identified quiet spaces inside the facility, as well as outdoor spaces that offer a natural, calming environment such as Pride Park, Collins Canal Park and the Miami Beach Botanical Garden, that would be beneficial for neurodivergent guests.
The big picture: MBCC’s CAD certification is another step in a larger initiative to make the Greater Miami area a Certified Autism-Friendly Destination, led by the Greater Miami Visitor and Convention Bureau, according to property officials. Achieving this designation means that a representative number of a destination’s attractions, hotels and other leisure and entertainment venues have completed the CAC certification process. Learn more about sensory-friendly attractions and travel industry partners, including Miami International Airport, in the Greater Miami and Miami Beach area here.
Why is this important: “Inclusion and accessibility are priority initiatives for our destination,” said David Whitaker, President and CEO of the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau“Achieving this standard will allow us to better leverage the tens of billions of dollars spent each year by travelers with disabilities and their families, while significantly increasing customer satisfaction. Most importantly, we can ensure that our visitors, residents and neighbors feel welcome, safe and, most importantly, have fun.”
Zoom out: This latest achievement is just one part of MBCC’s extensive focus on a wide range of corporate social responsibilities (CSR), accessibility, DEIB (diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging) and sustainability programs. In addition to having obtained LEED Silver certification as part of its $640 million expansion and reinvention project which includes a myriad of environmentally friendly features, the MBCC recently obtained the Basic Certificate for Sustainability and Social Impact of Event Industry Council (EIC). In addition, five staff members obtained the EIC Professional Certificate in Sustainable Eventsdesigned for professionals interested in accelerating sustainability and social impact where they work.
For a deeper dive into the Certified Autism Center certification, check out This item from our sister publication, BizBash.
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