St. Johns County Leads in Accessible Tourism with Certification Renewal for Autism-Friendly Services

Through the renewal process of the ‘Certified Autism Center' designation that is due every three years, the St. Johns County Chamber of Commerce, more specifically the Ponte Vedra Visitor Information Center, was able to showcase its renewed commitment to providing exceptional services to visitors of all abilities.

This renewal further provides services to individuals with autism and other sensory needs. St. Johns County Chamber of Commerce is well on its way to becoming a Certified Autism Destination and continuing to zip line this EBCCs philosophy of creating an inclusive visitor economy.

By renewing its CAC certification, the St. Johns County Chamber of Commerce upholds its promise to create welcoming spaces for visitors with autism. The renewal process involves comprehensive staff training to ensure all personnel are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to assist individuals with autism and sensory sensitivities. The chamber̢۪s efforts go beyond simple compliance, with the broader goal of making St. Johns County a destination where everyone, regardless of ability, can enjoy a fulfilling experience.

In addition to renewing the CAC certification, the Chamber of Commerce is taking the lead in the larger initiative to make St. Johns County a Certified Autism Destination. This designation is important for families seeking destinations that prioritize accessibility, as it guarantees that multiple venues, including entertainment, accommodation, and recreation sites, are equipped with trained staff and sensory-friendly environments. By earning the CAD status, St. Johns County demonstrates its resolve to meet the diverse needs of visitors and residents alike.

IBCCES, the organization responsible for the certification process, is a global leader in autism training and certification. The certification offered by IBCCES sets the industry standard, and its process involves comprehensive training from subject matter experts and autistic self-advocates. Through its certification programs, IBCCES works with businesses, healthcare providers, and educators to ensure that every professional is equipped to support individuals with autism and sensory sensitivities.

IBCCES also maintains several platforms, including the Accessibility App and AutismTravel.com, which assist families in finding certified locations and professionals. These resources help people with autism or other neurodivergent conditions find accessible destinations worldwide, ensuring smoother, more enjoyable experiences.

The renewal of the CAC designation is part of a broader movement in St. Johns County to make the area a model for accessibility and inclusion. Visitors who come to the Ponte Vedra Visitor Information Center can expect staff who are fully trained in autism awareness and sensory sensitivity. In addition to providing helpful resources, the center serves as a beacon of hospitality for families traveling with individuals on the autism spectrum.

This renewed designation also plays a crucial role in the development of local businesses that are trained to cater to neurodiverse visitors. As more local venues join the CAD initiative, visitors will have an expanded network of sensory-friendly options to choose from, including restaurants, hotels, and entertainment venues.

St. Johns County is positioning itself as a leader in promoting accessibility and inclusivity within the tourism industry. This effort is backed by the support of numerous local businesses and organizations, all working together to foster an environment where everyone feels welcomed. The move to earn Certified Autism Destination status is just one of many steps being taken to ensure that individuals with disabilities can enjoy their travels with confidence.

The Certified Autism Center designation renewal by the St. Johns County Chamber of Commerce reaffirms the county's Autism inclusivity efforts. St. Johns County's efforts on awareness and inclusion of Autism St. Johns County, leads the region by ensuring that all destinations accommodate equal opportunities with unforgettable moments for every level of ability presented by each visitor.

source: linkedin IBCCES