KultureCity has partnered with the University of Illinois Springfield (UIS) Performing Arts Center to make this location and all its programs and events sensory-inclusive. This new initiative will promote an accommodating and positive experience for all guests with sensory issues, no matter their age or ability.
The certification process ensures that the staff at the UIS Performing Arts Center are trained annually by leading medical professionals on how to recognize guests with sensory needs and how to handle a sensory overload situation. KultureCity Sensory Bags, equipped with noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools, verbal cue cards, and lanyards, will be available to all guests at the UIS Performing Arts Center who may feel overwhelmed by this new environment.
Sensory sensitivities or challenges with sensory regulation are often experienced by individuals with autism, dementia, PTSD, and other similar conditions. One of the major barriers for these individuals is sensitivity to overstimulation and noise, which can be a major part of the environment at a location like UIS Performing Arts Center. With its new certification, UIS Performing Arts Center is now better prepared to assist guests with sensory sensitivities in having the most comfortable and accommodating experience possible.
Prior to their visit, families and individuals can download the free KultureCity App, where one can view what sensory features are available and where they can access them, including Quiet Areas, where to get a Kulture City Sensory Bag, where the Headphone Zones are, etc. Also on the App is Social Story which will provide a customized visual preview of what to expect while enjoying a visit to UIS Performing Arts Center.
KultureCity® is a leading non-profit recognized nationwide for using its resources to revolutionize and effect change in the community for those with sensory needs, not just those with autism. Since the program’s inception, KultureCity has created over 1,000 sensory inclusive public and private services, organizations, events, and venues in 6 countries: this includes special events such as the NFL Pro-Bowl, NFL Super Bowl, MLB World Series, and MLB All-Star Weekend.
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