Friday, August 16, 2024 In September 2023, Traverse City embarked on a transformative journey to become a beacon of inclusivity for autistic individuals and their families in search of welcoming vacation spots. The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) is thrilled to confirm Traverse City’s new status as a Certified Autism DestinationTM (CAD), with 19 local entities achieving certification, aimed at enhancing the travel experiences for autistic and sensory-sensitive guests. “The goal is to create a welcoming environment for all residents and visitors, regardless of their unique needs, and to make the travel experience friendlier for families,” said Whitney Waara , chief operating officer of Traverse City Tourism.
“Sometimes it’s as simple as having knowledgeable employees, creating a quiet space, or providing accurate information about what a certain experience is like and how to navigate it easily before the visitors arrive.” This initiative, spearheaded by Traverse City Tourism, involved a diverse array of businesses, including accommodations, recreational, and entertainment venues, all of which underwent rigorous certification as part of their commitment to becoming more accessible and accommodating. To attain the Certified Autism CenterTM (CAC) status, venues’ frontline staff underwent specialized training, and select locations were subject to an IBCCES on-site review.
“We’re immensely proud to recognize Travers.