Visit Anaheim Earns Certified Autism Center Designation, Paving Way for Inclusive Tourism

Visit Anaheim, the official destination organization of Anaheim, California, has achieved a significant milestone by becoming a Certified Autism Center (CAC), as recognized by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). This certification marks the beginning of a city-wide initiative to enhance accessibility and inclusivity for autistic and sensory-sensitive visitors and their families.

Achieving the CAC designation involves specialized training and a certification process for staff, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to better assist and understand the needs of autistic and sensory-sensitive guests.

Christina Dawson, Senior Vice President of Operations at Visit Anaheim, emphasized the importance of this achievement. “Being designated as a Certified Autism Center reflects our dedication to ensuring that everyone, regardless of their abilities, can fully enjoy the unique attractions and experiences our city offers,” she said.

This accomplishment is the initial step towards making Anaheim a Certified Autism Destination (CAD). As a CAD, the area will offer a variety of certified entertainment, recreation, and hospitality choices for visitors, enhancing the travel experience for individuals with autism and their families.

In collaboration with IBCCES, Visit Anaheim is engaging key players in the city’s tourism, hospitality, and recreation sectors to undergo autism training and certification. This community-wide effort aims to attract new visitors to Anaheim and improve services for local residents.

Myron Pincomb, IBCCES Board Chairman, expressed pride in conferring the CAC designation to Visit Anaheim. “This certification underscores Anaheim’s commitment to welcoming all visitors and is a step forward in their journey to becoming a Certified Autism Destination,” he stated.

For over two decades, IBCCES has been at the forefront of providing cognitive disorder training and certification globally. Their programs, developed with input from autistic individuals, combine evidence-based content with ongoing support and renewal requirements, ensuring lasting impact and continuous learning.

IBCCES also manages AutismTravel.com, a free online resource that lists certified destinations and planning tools for families. Each listed destination on the site has met the stringent requirements of the Certified Autism Center program.

Visit Anaheim’s certification as a CAC highlights the city’s commitment to fostering an accessible and welcoming environment for all visitors, setting a precedent for inclusive tourism practices.